Jakarta, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Imagine having the superpower of X-ray vision, allowing you to see through objects as easily as a superhero. This might soon be possible thanks to groundbreaking research being conducted at the University of Texas at Dallas. A team of scientists there is working on a revolutionary technology that could bring X-ray-like vision to everyday devices like smartphones.
Dr. Kenneth O, a professor of electrical engineering at the University of Texas, is leading the team developing this innovative technology.
In an interview with CBS News, Dr. O explained the ambitious goal: “We aim to create a device that offers the ability to see through objects, just like a superhero would.”
Traditionally, such technology has been used on a large scale, for instance, in airport security screenings. But Dr. O and his team are designing a system compact enough to fit inside a smartphone, making it accessible to the general public.
Early prototypes of the technology have already shown the capability to see through thin materials like cardboard. However, the current iteration still faces challenges, particularly in processing image data quickly.
“The idea is that, one day, this technology could be used for a variety of practical applications—from opening envelopes to medical uses, like checking hydration levels in the body,” Dr. O said.
Despite the futuristic allure of this technology, privacy remains a significant concern. To prevent misuse, such as data theft or invasive surveillance, the system is designed to function only at close range—around one inch from the object.
With further development, the potential applications of this technology could be vast. It could be used in medical settings to detect health issues or in everyday scenarios, such as finding items behind walls or identifying cracks in pipes.
The core of this technology is a microchip that utilizes terahertz (THz) radiation, which exists between radio waves and infrared light on the electromagnetic spectrum. While invisible to the human eye, terahertz waves can penetrate materials like fog, dust, and other substances that are typically opaque to visible light.
This microchip, developed using CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) technology—commonly used in computer processors and other electronics—emits terahertz waves that bounce back to the chip, creating an image of the object behind the barrier.
Researchers believe that this technology could revolutionize multiple fields in the future. For example, it could help locate nails or buttons behind walls, identify cracks in pipes, or even allow users to see the contents of packages without opening them.
Dreadhaunt Review, Latest Indonesia’s Horror Games
With backing from major research programs like Texas Instruments and Samsung, Dr. O and his team are optimistic that this technology could become a reality soon. With adequate funding and continued development, they hope that this X-ray vision capability will be available to the public in just a few years.
In the not-too-distant future, your smartphone might come equipped with X-ray vision, turning science fiction into everyday reality.
(Agung)
