Christmas 2039: nanotech toys, space trips, virtual reality gifts

By Dick Pelletier

      

    What will the world be like in 30 years? Of course, no one can predict with 100% accuracy how life will change in the years ahead, but by tracking today's exponentially-advancing technologies, we can project an amazing future unfolding by 2039.

    There will be much to be thankful for in 2039. By mid-2020s, scientists unraveled many of the mysteries of consciousness which led to development of mind-analysis systems that have eliminated most crime, including terrorism. By early 2030s, biotech and nanotech finally ended human aging, and by 2039, a radically improved economy, strengthened by the introduction of molecular nanofactories, provides a scarcity-free life for citizens throughout the world.

    Christmas still includes gift-giving and fun for children. The most popular gifts in 2039 include intelligent toys loaded with nanotech enhancements; vacations in low Earth orbit resorts and distant trips to Moon and Mars. And for those who have everything, a Holodeck virtual reality experience.

    Atop most children's Santa list are nanotech action figures. These clever creations can read children's thoughts; then morph into a pleasing image – a lifelike Barbie doll or fighting soldier – that children can interact with and learn from.

    The space elevator has slashed costs of getting people into orbit. Prices dropped from $10,000 to $10 per pound, which has opened space development to entrepreneurs everywhere.

    Virgin Galactic's $200,000 trips in 2010 allowing guests to "float" in gravity-free space have evolved into 2039's $2,000 forays reaching 100-to-500 miles above Earth; and $8,000 Moon and $50,000 Mars trips. Faster-than-light-speed hyper-express ships can roundtrip the Moon in an hour; and the red planet in five hours.

    Virtual reality provides irresistible experiences. Neural-bots enter minds and replace normal sensory input with signals implanted by VR software that creates breathtaking adventures indiscernible from reality.

    Entering an imaginary Holodeck, people voice their selection for the time period, ranging from ancient human history to a far future time; then add details for the excursion, which could include a romantic fantasy, being elected U.S. President, winning a gunfight, or any other wild experience imaginable. Virtual reality has become the rage for entertainment buffs worldwide.

    Other gifts include nano-enhanced interactive "smart" clothing with built-in nano-swarms that can sense other people's emotions. If someone feels sad, happy, or puzzled, the wearer immediately recognizes it, and if a person is lying, that becomes exposed too. This mind-analyzer system helps people gain confidence and strengthen relationships.

    2039 homes have undergone changes too. Windows change shape and texture allowing clean air and light when needed. Satellite GPS coordinates identifies every house eliminating the need for street addresses. Mind scans restrict access to family members, making keys unnecessary.

    Every home has a vehicle parked in the garage that can fly as well as drive. Backing out the driveway, skycars lift vertically like a silent helicopter, and then glide through the sky to destinations. A quantum-controlled GPS system monitors traffic and prevents accidents on the road and in the sky.

    Could these events happen so quickly? Clearly the road to Christmas 2039 winds around unknown; possibly even dangerous turns, but strong commerce will drive this optimistic vision forward. Welcome to what promises to become a most "magical future."

This article appeared in various print publications and on-line blogs. Comments always welcome.