Accuracy and Calibration Failures in Science and Engineering

Preface

I am a ‘Trekkie,’ in other words, a fan of Gene Roddenberry’s Star Trek. Growing up in the 70s, Star Trek provided a glimpse of a universe that was completely new, fascinating, and, in some instances, horrifying. I remember a few other science fiction shows of the late 60s and 70s, such as The Twilight Zone (1959–1964) by Rod Serling, which would sometimes explore these ideas along with many others that brought about high interest (as well as nightmares!), and The Outer Limits, which was darker and more horror-leaning than Star Trek, with standalone episodes involving aliens, scientists, and futuristic tech. Like Star Trek, this often included strong moral or political subtexts. Then, there was Lost in Space (1965–1968), and while they encountered aliens and strange planets, I found the acting staff very annoying; however, they did provide the basis of examples of failure that ring true to this day! The best was (and still is) the Doctor Who series, which is just as old as I am and is still in production.

These shows produced a foundation of wonderment for science and the potential for the future. Without these concepts, I am certain I would have pursued a career in music instead of science and engineering. There is one thing that rang true to many of these episodes: there was always an element of failure involved. While this added to the overall storyline, I would hope certain lessons were learned.

In Star Trek, a tricorder reading was trusted without hesitation. Sensors ...