Future Tech

Technology / Gadgets

Laser beams make a play to replace the scalpel, the dental drill, and the X ray

by Diane Martindale

From the June 2002 issue; published online June 1, 2002

The full text of this article is only available to DISCOVER subscribers.

Subscribe to DISCOVER Magazine and get full web access. Digital subscribers get instant access to the current issue.

Already a subscriber? Log in here.

Example of where to find your account number

After you log in, you'll remain logged in on this computer for up to three months, or until you click the Log Out button at the top of the page.

Click here for help.

Meet the Obscure, Useful Metals Lurking in Products All Around You
Without the rare earths, there would be no iPods and no hybrid cars. But who has even heard of erbium or ytterbium? September 22, 2011

The Internet May Soon Include All of the Things Around You
As wireless nodes become cheaper and more common, our electronic networks will expand to include many of the non-electronic things you really care about: your missing pants, a new shoelace, and the city’s best produce stand.  August 22, 2011

Turning Carbon Dioxide Into Bioplastics: 2 Birds With 1 Stone?
One chemist says he can slash atmospheric carbon dioxide to preindustrial levels in a decade, harnessing the sun's power to make useful products at the same time. August 01, 2011

Forget 3D Screens—We Need 3D Audio, Like in Real Life
A backward march of audio quality has left  us listening to tinny, stripped-down MP3s. It’s time to show the kids what they are missing. July 29, 2011

Home-in-a-Box for Disaster Survivors
It rolls, unfolds, inflates, and habitates. July 22, 2011

Account Number:
Zip Code:

Technology / Gadgets

Future Tech