As the new year begins, it is natural to consider what the future might hold in terms of scientific and health developments. In the past year, we have witnessed a range of events, including the release of stunning images from space, significant reductions in reproductive rights in the US, attempts to weaken environmental protections, a war that highlighted our reliance on energy, and the awarding of a Nobel Prize for research on our Neanderthal ancestry. As we enter 2023, there are several issues that we are closely following.
2023 Space Forecast
There are currently many satellite constellations filling the night sky, and there are two manned space stations in operation. In 2023, there may be greater recognition of the need for stronger international protections for Earth's orbital regions, as nations continue to develop new military capabilities in space. If SpaceX's Starship vehicle completes its first orbital flight, it could lead to a new era of space exploration, science, and commerce by providing a more affordable way of transporting cargo and people to space. The year 2023 may also bring further progress in the search for life beyond Earth, through the exploration of exoplanets for biosignatures by the James Webb Space Telescope or the discovery of fossil evidence on Mars by NASA's Perseverance rover.
Climate Change Action
Despite our reliance on fossil fuels, European leaders may need to make significant decisions about energy infrastructure due to the high costs and potential shortages caused by the Ukraine War. These decisions may include the development of renewable energy sources and the transportation of fossil fuels, as well as the maintenance of existing energy structures. The recently elected US government may also have a significant impact on climate-related financial support and regulation. In the face of the ongoing global climate emergency, it is expected that 2023 will be a year of recovery from natural disasters such as storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires. This recovery process will involve officials deciding whether and how to rebuild, taking into account the need to prepare for and mitigate the effects of climate change and to avoid perpetuating inequalities. There is a risk that adaptation efforts may be controlled by the influential rather than being fair and equitable.
Technology Theories
As the new owner of Twitter and other social media platforms continue to address the issue of misinformation, it will be important for consumers of news to carefully consider the credibility of what they read and to navigate the "infodemic" responsibly in 2023. The government is also starting to focus on privacy, antitrust, and the potential negative effects of excessive social media use, which could negatively impact the tech industry. Some tech companies that experienced success during the pandemic, such as Meta, Stripe, and Lyft, have had to lay off employees. The tech sector may experience a downturn as a result.
Here are some of possible scientific events that we should pay attention to as 2023 begins.
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Public Health
While public interest and funding for COVID research may be declining, the SARS-CoV-2 virus is still causing illness and death, and the long-term effects of COVID-19, also known as "long COVID," are just beginning to be studied. New vaccines and treatments for COVID-19 are in development, and outbreaks of other viruses, such as monkeypox, highlight the importance of pandemic preparedness. The New York Times reported that, as abortion rights are being restricted, it is important to continue covering the science behind abortion and the harm that abortion bans or restrictions can cause to pregnant individuals, particularly those with limited access to healthcare. The science of gender and transgender health, as well as the impact of legislation on children and families seeking gender-affirming care, are also important topics to continue reporting on.
Mental Well-Being
As the search for new psychiatric medications continues, psychedelics have shown potential as a treatment option. In 2023, the Food and Drug Administration may approve the use of MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder. Esketamine, marketed under the brand name Spravato, was approved in 2019 as an antidepressant, and psilocybin is being tested as a treatment for major depression. While these substances are gaining recognition as legitimate treatments, experts at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have cautioned that they may be overhyped and should not be considered a universal solution.
Ancient Studies
DNA sequencing has greatly advanced the study of ancient organisms, but the oldest DNA that has been sequenced is about 1.2 million years old, as DNA tends to degrade relatively quickly. Paleoproteomics, which involves the study of ancient proteins, has gained popularity as a method for understanding the evolutionary relationships of extinct species. In the coming year, this technique may provide further insights into the evolutionary history of ancient animals, such as a 23-million-year-old relative of the rhinoceros. The fields of paleontology, archaeology, ecology, and anthropology are also undergoing a critical examination of the role of colonialism in scientific research. This includes efforts to address the use of racist species names and to challenge extractive practices that take specimens from developing nations without considering local knowledge or providing any benefit to the affected communities.
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