As we step into the promising yet enigmatic year of 2026, one can’t help but wonder: What groundbreaking discoveries await us in the world of physics? Predicting the future of science is no small feat—it’s like trying to solve a puzzle with pieces that haven’t been invented yet. But fear not, because while we can’t foresee every twist and turn, we can certainly highlight the trends and topics that are heating up the physics community right now.
Years ago, I embarked on a personal tradition of forecasting the year ahead in physics, armed with nothing but curiosity and an imaginary crystal ball. I’d speculate on potential breakthroughs, emerging trends, and the scientists poised to make headlines. Yet, it quickly became clear that predicting physics is less like reading tea leaves and more like navigating a labyrinth—exciting but often unpredictable. After all, apart from scheduled space missions, the launch of particle colliders, or the opening of new light sources, much of science remains shrouded in mystery. And isn’t that the beauty of it? The thrill of the unknown is what keeps us coming back for more. So, while I can’t tell you exactly what 2026 holds, I can promise that Physics World will be your front-row seat to all the action.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Amidst the global scientific landscape, the upheaval in U.S. science has been nothing short of seismic. How will these changes ripple through the physics community? While we ponder that, let’s shift focus to the exciting lineup of Physics World Live events this year, which will spotlight the hottest topics in physics today.
Kicking things off is quantum metrology, a field that’s rapidly gaining traction. Why does it matter? Because it’s the linchpin for testing, validating, and commercializing quantum technologies—a game-changer for both academia and industry. Though the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology officially wraps up in February with a closing ceremony in Ghana, its impact will echo throughout 2026. Quantum physics isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a revolution in the making.
Next up is nuclear fusion, the holy grail of energy production. With the potential to provide limitless, clean energy, it’s often hailed as the solution to the climate crisis. But here’s the catch: the path to commercialization is fraught with challenges, despite the flurry of activity from private firms like Tokamak Energy, which recently snagged a Business Award from the Institute of Physics (IOP). Meanwhile, the colossal ITER experiment in southern France continues to dominate the landscape. Will 2026 be the year fusion takes a giant leap forward, or will it remain a tantalizing dream? Only time will tell.
And this is the part most people miss: Medical physics is quietly shaping the future of healthcare. This year, Physics World will host an online panel featuring current and past editors-in-chief of Physics in Medicine & Biology, a journal celebrating its 70th anniversary. They’ll delve into how medical physics has revolutionized medicine and biology, and where the field is headed next. Plus, the IOP is launching a new “impact project” focused on medical physics in 2026, alongside another on artificial intelligence (AI). Not to mention, their ongoing work on metamaterials—pioneered by visionaries like John Pendry—continues to push boundaries. Could a Nobel Prize be on the horizon for him? That’s one prediction I’d love to see come true.
As we embark on this new year, one thing is certain: physics will continue to challenge, inspire, and surprise us. On behalf of the entire Physics World team, I wish you a happy, curious, and successful 2026. Your support means the world to us. And now, I leave you with a thought-provoking question: What’s the one physics breakthrough you’re most excited to see in 2026, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
