Doomed US submarine, quantum computer hacking experiment: 7 science highlights
From a declassified Chinese operation to possible building blocks for a lunar base, here are a few highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting
1. Declassified Chinese operation sheds light on doomed US submarine incident
It is the stuff of science fiction. A giant whirlpool, spanning hundreds of kilometres, suddenly appears in the ocean, threatening anything in its path. But now, after the declassification of a Chinese operation, it appears this particular whirlpool was all too real. And it could be the explanation behind an international incident involving an American nuclear-powered submarine.
2. Chinese scientists hack encryption in quantum computer experiment: paper
Chinese scientists have mounted what they say is the world’s first effective attack on a widely used encryption method using a quantum computer. The breakthrough poses a “real and substantial threat” to the long-standing password-protection mechanism employed across critical sectors, including banking and the military, according to the researchers.
3. Sacred Lion of Venice was made in China, new research suggests
The winged Lion of Venice watches over St Mark’s Square in the northern Italian city, just as it has done for hundreds of years. But now a team of scientists in Italy have found evidence that the statue originated in China.