Jon Blow reflects on the concept of a "daylight computer," a system designed for focused work during daylight hours. He argues against the always-on, notification-driven nature of modern computing, proposing a machine that prioritizes deep work and mindful engagement. This involves limiting distractions, emphasizing local data storage, and potentially even restricting network access. The goal is to reclaim a sense of control and presence, fostering a healthier relationship with technology by aligning its use with natural rhythms and promoting focused thought over constant connectivity.
Optical frequency combs are extremely precise tools that measure light frequency, analogous to a ruler for light waves. They consist of millions of precisely spaced laser lines that span a broad spectrum, resembling the teeth of a comb. This structure allows scientists to measure optical frequencies with extraordinary accuracy by comparing them to the known frequencies of the comb's "teeth." This technology has revolutionized numerous fields, including timekeeping, by enabling the creation of more accurate atomic clocks, and astronomy, by facilitating the search for exoplanets and measuring the expansion of the universe. It also has applications in telecommunications, chemical sensing, and distance measurement.
Hacker News users discussed the applications and significance of optical frequency combs. Several commenters highlighted their use in extremely precise clocks and the potential for advancements in GPS technology. Others focused on the broader scientific impact, including applications in astrophysics (detecting exoplanets), chemical sensing, and telecommunications. One commenter even mentioned their surprising use in generating arbitrary waveforms for radar. The overall sentiment reflects appreciation for the technological achievement and its potential for future innovation. Some questioned the practical near-term applications, particularly regarding improved GPS, due to the size and cost of current comb technology.
This study re-examines the use of star clocks, or diagonal star tables, in ancient Egypt. By digitally reconstructing the night sky as seen from specific locations and times in Egypt, the researchers demonstrate how these tables functioned. Each table tracked fifteen decanal stars, marking the passage of time throughout the night by their sequential risings and culminations. The study reveals a continuous tradition of star clock use spanning multiple dynasties, with tables adjusted for precession. It also highlights regional variations and potential administrative uses of these astronomical tools, solidifying their importance for timekeeping in ancient Egyptian society.
HN users discussed the practicality and accuracy of Egyptian star clocks, questioning their true function. Some doubted their precision for timekeeping, suggesting they were more likely used for ritual or symbolic purposes related to the rising and setting of specific stars. Others highlighted the complexity of deciphering their meaning due to the long passage of time and shifting astronomical alignments. The role of priests in using these clocks, and their potential connection to religious ceremonies, was also a topic of interest. Several commenters appreciated the visual representation of the star clocks, but wished for more technical details and context within the ArcGIS story map itself. The limited written record from the Egyptians themselves makes definitive conclusions difficult, leaving room for speculation and further research.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43098318
Hacker News users largely praised the Daylight Computer project for its ambition and innovative approach to personal computing. Several commenters appreciated the focus on local-first software and the potential for increased privacy and control over data. Some expressed skepticism about the project's feasibility and the challenges of building a sustainable ecosystem around a niche operating system. Others debated the merits of the chosen hardware and software stack, suggesting alternatives like RISC-V and questioning the reliance on Electron. A few users shared their personal experiences with similar projects and offered practical advice on development and community building. Overall, the discussion reflected a cautious optimism about the project's potential, tempered by a realistic understanding of the difficulties involved in disrupting the established computing landscape.
The Hacker News post titled "Thoughts on Daylight Computer" generated a fair amount of discussion, with several commenters engaging with the concept of a "daylight computer," as proposed in the linked blog post.
One of the most compelling threads revolved around the practicality and efficiency of relying on daylight for computation. Some commenters questioned the reliability of such a system, pointing out the variability of daylight hours and weather conditions. They argued that a consistently available power source, such as grid electricity or even solar panels with battery storage, would be much more practical for most computational tasks. Others countered this by suggesting that the daylight computer concept could be useful in specific niche applications, such as off-grid scientific data collection in remote, sunny locations, or even as an educational tool to demonstrate basic computing principles. The discussion delved into the potential trade-offs between the environmental benefits of using daylight and the limitations imposed by its intermittency.
Another interesting point raised was the potential impact on the design of algorithms and software. Commenters discussed the need to develop software that can gracefully handle interruptions in power supply, and algorithms that can adapt to varying levels of available computational resources. This led to a discussion about the possibility of using daylight computers for tasks that are not time-sensitive, allowing computations to be paused and resumed as daylight permits.
Several commenters also focused on the technical details of the proposed implementation. There were questions about the efficiency of concentrating daylight, the types of sensors that could be used to detect light levels, and the overall energy consumption of the system. Some commenters also suggested alternative approaches to harnessing daylight for computation, such as using photovoltaic cells to generate electricity instead of directly using concentrated light.
Finally, some commenters expressed appreciation for the author's creativity and the thought-provoking nature of the daylight computer concept. They saw it less as a practical solution for everyday computing and more as an interesting exploration of alternative approaches to computation and a reminder of the limitations of relying solely on conventional energy sources. The discussion also touched upon the philosophical implications of aligning computational processes with natural cycles.