There is no subtle way to say this: Brian Walker plans to shoot himself nearly 20 miles into the air aboard a homemade rocket launched from what could be the world's largest crossbow. (Seriously.)
This isn't Walker's first outlandish invention. He's responsible for the “light chaser†whirly toy, a 300-gallon water-balloon launcher (for putting out forest fires â€" still in prototype), and Taser gloves (featured in “Garage Geniuses Go Prime Time,†issue 14.03). But Project RUSH â€" for “rapid up superhigh†â€" is hands down his most preposterously dangerous effort. “I missed out on the opportunity to be the first private citizen to fly to the edge of space in a private rocket, so I decided to do something even more fun,†Walker says. (Wired)
World's Largest Crossbow
Propel Yourself Into Space
Trend Themes
1. DIY Space Launches - The trend of developing homemade rockets with unusual launch mechanics for space travel emerges as a possible alternative to traditional methods of space exploration.
2. Extreme Inventions - The trend of inventors building the largest and most dangerous equipment in search of adventure and recognition disrupts traditional notions of invention and safety.
3. Innovative Emergency Fire Equipment - The trend of developing creative equipment and tools for emergency workers in fighting fires using methods outside the usual scope may revolutionize how fires are managed.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - Cutting-edge innovations for space exploration including personalized space exploration could disrupt the aerospace industry.
2. Invention - The trend of inventors pursuing increasingly extreme and dangerous projects could disrupt the traditional concepts of invention, safety, and risk management.
3. Emergency Response - Innovations in equipment and tools for first responders in the fire-fighting sector could transform emergency service industries and associated equipment.