"Cryogenic Weapon: Scientists Bring Mr. Freeze's Iconic Arsenal to Life"

Researchers at the University of Virginia, led by Professor Patrick Hopkins, are developing a freeze gun-like device to provide cooling for electronics in spacecraft and high-altitude jets. The U.S. Air Force has shown interest in the concept and has funded the research with $750,000 over three years. The prototype device exploits the unique properties of plasma to rapidly cool surfaces before warming them up. The technology could be a game-changer for electronics in the vacuum of space or the upper atmosphere, where traditional cooling methods are not viable.