China's bug-inspired tech to detect missiles 20,000x faster than US

Chinese scientists have developed a novel infrared sensor inspired by the fire beetle’s heat-sensing organ, which can detect missiles and heat sources up to 20,000 times faster than existing technologies. Created by researchers at the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics and Tongji University, the sensor uses materials like palladium diselenide and pentacene to operate in the mid-infrared range, enabling it to detect extremely low heat levels even in challenging environments such as smoke, dust, or fog. Tested in simulated wildfire conditions, the sensor demonstrated nearly 95% accuracy in tracking flame movement and storing heat patterns, highlighting its potential for applications in night vision, fire detection, industrial safety, and defense surveillance. In addition, a related device using black phosphorus and indium selenide achieved photonic memory speeds of 0.5 microseconds, allowing precise real-time data capture and image recognition. This advancement could enhance military systems, including missile defense units like China’s HQ-17AE, by enabling