Welcome

Welcome to the Winter 2024 edition of brite Innovation Review, where we shall delve into the frontiers of technology and explore the burgeoning trends that are reshaping our world and the way we interact with it. In this issue, we embark on a journey through the cosmos to the very fabric of our digital existence, addressing critical questions and innovations that are setting the pace for the future.

Why are Miniature Satellites Expanding So Rapidly?
We kick off our exploration with a look into the cosmos, where miniature satellites are revolutionising space exploration and communication. These compact marvels are proving that when it comes to space, smaller often means faster, cheaper, and more versatile. But what is fuelling their exponential growth, and how are they changing the game for industries and researchers alike?

What’s the Next Destination for Commercial Sub-Orbital Rockets?
As commercial spaceflight becomes an increasingly tangible reality, we investigate the ambitions driving the industry forward. From space tourism to rapid global transport, we examine the milestones ahead and the challenges that lie in reaching new heights.

Space Communication: How Infrared Lasers are Changing the Comms Game!
The vastness of space requires communication technologies that can bridge immense distances without lag. We dive into how infrared lasers are cutting through the cosmic silence, offering faster, more secure ways to transmit vast amount of data across with speed and precision.

Are We Ready for Digital Humans: Companions, Therapists, Entertainers...?
The advent of digital humans is blurring the lines between the virtual and the real. As they step into roles ranging from companions to therapists, and entertainers, we ponder the ethical, social, and psychological implications of these digital beings in our lives.

Can 6G Deliver on the Holographic and Tactile Communications’ Promise?
As the world barely adjusts to 5G, the horizon is already buzzing with the prospects of 6G. We explore its potential to revolutionise communication through holographic and tactile feedback, making digital interactions more immersive than ever.

The Quantum Transition – Preparing for a Quantum Ready Workforce.
One of my key questions that still needs to be figured out to ensure that a talent pool is out there for industry to pick from is “what makes someone quantum ready?” This is a re-run of my article in brite in February 2020 to see how far we have progressed since then!

The Cyber Arms Race and Post-Quantum Cryptography.

Quantum computing is now more than an impressive technological advancement - it's quickly becoming a national security issue. Can it keep pace with the evolving cyber threats, or are we entering a new era of vulnerability?

Quantum Machine Learning (QML): Do we have the Right Skills?

With Quantum Machine Learning set to transform AI, we question whether the current workforce and educational institutions are prepared for this quantum leap. What skills will be essential, and how do we bridge the knowledge gap?

Beyond the Rational, How Can Behavioural Science Fill in the Gaps in Decision-Making?
In the realm of decision-making, rationality is not the sole player. We explore how behavioural science offers insights into the irrational factors that influence our choices and how this knowledge can lead to better decision-making processes in technology and beyond.

Are We Reaching the Absolute Physical Limit of Chip Miniaturisation?
The relentless pursuit of smaller, faster, and more efficient chips faces the ultimate test: the laws of physics. We investigate whether we are approaching the limits of chip miniaturisation and what this means for future technological advancements.

The Rise of e-waste! How Concerned Should we be?
As our appetite for the latest gadgets continues to grow, so does the pile of electronic waste. We confront the environmental impact of e-waste and discuss sustainable practices that could mitigate this growing concern.

Are We Surrendering Our Data Security Unknowingly When it Comes to Health?
In the digital age, our health data is more accessible than ever, but at what cost to privacy? We examine the delicate balance between leveraging technology for health benefits and protecting our most sensitive information from misuse.

Charting A Course For Maritime Safety And Training Excellence

Oxygen Depletion in enclosed spaces in a maritime environment has taken lives for centuries. Finally, City of Glasgow College, home to IKE Institute Scotland, has led on an Oxygen Depletion Research Study, initiating a series of ground-breaking experiments to provide the critical empirical data to inform and shape future Maritime Safety and has underpinned a major course development in this area. As a result of this research, COGC and Scottish IKE won the Queens Anniversary Award for Higher and Further Education.

Can Organisations Make Quantum Computing a Practical Reality for their Operations?
Quantum computing promises computational leaps that could solve complex problems in seconds. We assess the readiness of organisations to harness this power and the steps needed to integrate quantum computing into practical, operational realities.

Join us as we navigate these critical topics, seeking insights and answers from the leading minds in technology, to not only understand the world of tomorrow but also to shape it.

We would welcome articles and stories from the IKE Institute Members, Fellows, and partner organisations.