Scientists Thwart the Invisibility Cloak (Again)

Invisibility cloaks don't even exist (unless you're Liu Bolin), yet scientists keep trying to ruin the fun. C'mon, guys. Wouldn't it be more enjoyable to figure out the awesome uses for one instead of trying to get us all caught?

This latest bummer involves two parts. The first is pretty simple. An invisibility cloak would only deflect specific wavelengths, either part or all of visible light. So if you were to blast it with, say, wavelengths in the IR or ultraviolet spectrum, then sensors could easily see through the cloak.

The second is a way to measure the radiation of electrons as they pass through the cloak. Identifying abnormal radiation patterns would get you caught and ruin your spy career.

Again, too, the researchers point out that you could easily detect a by "throwing a stone at it," or, for a much more humiliating "Gotcha!," tar and feathers.

There's still some small sliver of hope, at least. The researchers admit that this is all theoretical, so here's to hoping no one ever figures it out. Either way, both science and common sense keep trying to kill the dream. [ via Slashdot