Technological Breakthroughs of 2015

This past year, scientists and engineers have invented some of the most ground-breaking technological discoveries to date. Here are some of the most astounding breakthroughs of 2015:

Brought feeling to paralyzed man’s limbs:: Researchers at the Defense Advanced Re-

search Projects Agency successfully enabled a paralyzed man to “feel” physical sensation again through the use of a prosthetic hand connected to his brain.

Zero emission cars that run on hydrogen: This past year, fuel cell cars have started to

enter the U.S. market. The conversion of hydro-gen gas into electricity produces only water and heat as a byproduct, meaning these cars don’t create pollution when they’re driven.

Edited the genomes of embryos for the first time: Chinese scientists have reported editing the

genomes or human embryos. Although this gene editing has the potential to eradicate devastating diseases before a baby is born, there is still much debate over the ethical implications of such work.

Pervious concrete pavement: This newly developed pavement captures

stormwater runoff, allowing it to seep into the ground. Not only is this instrumental to recharg-ing groundwater and reducing stormwater run-off, but it also meets the stormwater regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Shade balls: In an effort to combat California’s 4 year

drought, the Mayor of Los Angeles filled the city’s reservoir with 96 million plastic “shade balls”. The city says the dark balls will shade and cool the water, making it less susceptible to algae, bacteria growth, and chemical reactions that can produce harmful substances.

Next generation robots: In an effort to provide care for the elderly,

the Japanese research institute, Riken, developed “Robear”, a robot nurse to help patients. This next generation robot has the strength and agili-ty to gently lift a patient from a bed or help them get from a sitting position to a standing one.

Courtesy of National Geographic

Courtesy of Vehicle Saftey

Courtesy of Secement.org

Courtesy of Kinja