How do you step into a major IP with a ton of history and a huge fanbase? How do you keep from being overwhelmed? Bryan Young, Richard Lee Byers, Erin M. Evans, Richard Dansky, Christopher Morgan (M)
Which one is writing? Or is it both? How do you balance them? Jaym Gates, Michael R. Underwood, Gregory A. Wilson, Marie Bilodeau, Brandon O'Brien, Christopher Morgan (M)
ZPE, energy quantum theory says is all around us. It may not be real, but SciFi writers use it as limitless "free" energy. What's real vs. SciFi? Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., physicist on NSDM staff
Description:
Zero-point energy, ZPE, refers to energy that exists even at absolute zero. One form of this rises from quantum field theory, which cites a universe composed of continuous fluctuating fields formed from a huge amount of energy that we cannot see. Some argue this is an artifact of mathematics, not a real thing. Others say that, if it is real, it is in equilibrium & entropy principles will not permit us to tap it. Recently, ZPE has become fodder for SciFi novel & screenplay writers as a source of limitless "free" energy. What is SciFi & what is real? What's the true potential of ZPE & how close might we be to realizing it? With a focus on the science & engineering technology, lecture attempts to separate fact from fiction. Presented by Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., a physicist with 12 years' experience at the Naval War College, on the National Security Decision Making Game staff.