4 ms·

semi absurd is kinda why DARPA exists!

• ChrisMarshallNY 3y ago
  The Register used to make fun of DARPA, saying things like “where every laugh is a mad cackle.”
• beambot 3y ago
  While we all communicate using TCP/IP, invented as a DARPA program for robust communication in the event of nuclear conflict...
  • mepian 3y ago
    It's an urban legend. ARPANET was an overgrown university network.
    • Guthur 3y ago
      And TCP/IP was one of many potential standard protocols https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protocol_Wars https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protocol_Wars
• imglorp 3y ago
  What? VLSI, VHDL, Multics, Hypertext, GaAs semiconductors, autonomous navigation, GPS, and packet switched networking were a few things they funded. Totally absurd, right? For every successful tech, they probably explored scores that didn't pan out. Basic, high risk research has huge payoffs across society even if you don't like who's funding it or why.
  • tjmc 3y ago
    So true. I read once that fundamental physics research on quantum tunnelling in Japan resulted in antennas that immediately reduced satellite dish sizes from meters across to the size of a dinner plate. Now you can connect with a modern smart phone.
  • morsch 3y ago
    I think that was the point.