Clone Drones and Wow Power

To explore the vast expanse of space, NASA uses Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS), which provide a nearly unlimited supply of nuclear energy to power spacecraft. As RPS technology evolves, it could power the next generation of astronauts—not people, but rather human-controlled, synthetic beings, or clone drones. With an endless source of electricity, and without dependence on oxygen, heat, or food, clone drones could colonize planets, mine for resources, or even explore the far reaches of the galaxy. I may not have RPS battery life, but I do have a power that drives me. It is my desire to wow others by creating innovative computer applications. Recently, I started designing video games for my autistic sister. When I watch her playing, her usually expressionless face brightens with wide-eyed wonder and a beaming smile. This shows me that my wow power is working. I am currently developing a mobile app in hopes of wowing a larger audience. It will feature lifelike, interactive virtual assistants (IVAs) to support individuals who struggle, like my sister. I plan to continue this work in college. My IVAs may not be clone drones (yet), but perhaps they can help the developmentally challenged reach for the stars.