Toy racetrack too cool to be real
A video of a Wipe'out-style toy car race is made possible using quantum magnetic levitation. Or is it?
(Credit:
Japan Institute of Science and Technology (aka Sony))
Quantum superconductors are an amazing thing.
With the right materials cooled down to below -301 degrees Fahrenheit, you can create a superconductive magnetic field known as the Meissner effect that is capable of floating stably in midair.
Over the past year, we've seen the effect demonstrated with a floating crystal wafer and a skateboard, and discussed as a real-world solution for high-speed rail.
With all that said, it seems completely plausible that some bored science students might construct a small-scale quantum superconductive racetrack styled after the '90s PlayStation game Wipe'out. I mean, why not?
Well, as badly as I want to believe in the above piece of awesomeness, it is likely a hoax. The giveaways? Well, Sony Entertainment is credited as a copyright holder on the video, who just happen to be releasing a sequel to Wipe'out in February.
Also, the "Japan Institute of Science and Technology" and the logo shown on the video are an imitation of the real-world Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. And finally, a careful look at the vapor trails of these two futuristic slot cars reveals some crafty CG work.
Still, as far as corporate-funded viral hoax videos go, this one is pretty great. Just don't hold your breath for a superconductive toy racetrack set popping up at Toys "R" Us anytime soon.
