I was a rookie reporter in the 00s

After this failed experiment, Professor Ma realized the seriousness and complexity of the problem. He realized that to achieve a safe and reliable crossing, he had to fundamentally improve the experimental plan and ensure that every step was subject to rigorous scientific verification and safety assessment.

Professor Ma realized that relying solely on the energy of lightning to trigger space-time rifts was not enough, so he decided to start with basic theory and conduct in-depth research on the physical mechanism of space-time rifts.

He then combined quantum mechanics, general relativity, and electromagnetism to develop a theoretical model of spacetime rifts. This model would help them better understand the conditions for their formation, their stability, and how to safely trigger and close them. He also consulted with a senior historian to examine ancient texts describing spacetime rifts, searching for possible clues. They hypothesized that the ancient spells might contain unknown physical principles that could provide new insights into modern science.

Professor Ma believes the safety and reliability of the guidance device are crucial to the success of the experiment. Therefore, he is incorporating additional protective measures into the existing Faraday cage. High-strength insulation materials and a multi-layered protective structure ensure the device can withstand higher energy impacts. He also plans to develop an intelligent control system to monitor the energy distribution and safety status within the device in real time. If an anomaly is detected, the system will automatically adjust the electromagnetic field parameters or even cut off energy input to ensure user safety.

He also believes that another major reason for the experimental failure is the loss of control over the electromagnetic field parameters. Therefore, he will focus on precisely controlling the frequency, intensity, and phase of the electromagnetic field. He will design and manufacture a high-precision electromagnetic field generator and controller to ensure the stability and adjustability of the electromagnetic field parameters. Furthermore, he will conduct numerous simulation experiments in the laboratory, using both computer simulations and actual testing to find the optimal electromagnetic field parameters to ensure the safe opening and closing of the space-time rift.

Professor Ma is well aware of the paramount importance of experimental safety. Before formal experiments begin, they must conduct multiple small-scale tests, gradually increasing the complexity and energy level of the experiment. This way, they can gradually verify the feasibility and safety of the experimental plan.

While lightning is powerful, it's also uncontrollable and dangerous. He might explore alternative energy sources, researching how to trigger spacetime rifts using controllable electromagnetic pulses. Electromagnetic pulses can be precisely controlled using laboratory equipment, their energy and frequency adjustable as needed. He might also explore the potential applications of quantum entanglement and quantum tunneling in time travel. These quantum phenomena could provide a safer, more controllable energy source for time travel.

After discussing this with historians, Professor Ma concluded that time travel is an extremely complex, interdisciplinary problem requiring diverse knowledge and technical support. He will invite experts from various fields, including physicists, historians, electronic engineers, and materials scientists, to participate in the research. Through this interdisciplinary collaboration, he hopes to address the problem from different perspectives.

The above is the experiment that Professor Ma is about to start. Although Zhang Wanqing, Fu Siyuan and Li Wei know nothing about highly professional subjects such as physics, they believe that such a professional person as Professor Ma will definitely be of great help to their time travel plan.

At the same time, Zhang Wanqing and three others once again came to the Taoist practice site, looking for an old Taoist priest who had practiced for many years, seeking help.

The three of them drove to the mountains outside the city, where an ancient Taoist temple stood. Legend had it that a long-trained Taoist priest resided there. The road was winding, surrounded by dense forests, and the occasional bird calls made the scenery exceptionally quiet. After over an hour's drive, they finally arrived at the foot of the temple.

"This is the place for cultivation." Fu Siyuan looked up at the Taoist temple on the mountain with a hint of awe in his tone.

"I hope this old Taoist priest can help us." Li Wei tightened the backpack in his hand, which contained the gifts and information they prepared.

Zhang Wanqing seemed a little nervous. She held Li Wei's hand tightly and whispered, "Are you sure he will meet us?"

"Don't worry, we've already contacted him." Fu Siyuan comforted him, "The old Taoist priest agreed to meet with us."

They ascended the stone steps to the temple, each step feeling particularly heavy. The temple's gate was ajar. They gently pushed it open, and a faint scent of sandalwood filled their nostrils. The temple was serene and solemn, with various Taoist instruments and ancient books displayed around the temple.

"You are here." An old and gentle voice came from the inner hall.

The three of them looked up and saw a white-haired old Taoist priest slowly walking out of the inner hall. He was dressed in a green Taoist robe, with a kind face and a look of otherworldly grace in his eyes.

"You are finally here." The old Taoist priest smiled and motioned them to sit down.

The three of them sat respectfully on the futon. Li Wei placed the prepared gift aside and said, "Master, we came here this time hoping that you could help us find a safe way to cross."

The old Taoist nodded, closed his eyes slightly, and opened them after a moment, saying, "I know why you're here. Time travel is no small matter. If you're not careful, you could be doomed."

"We've tried several times, but all failed," Fu Siyuan said. "We hope to use your wisdom and experience to find a safer method."

The old Taoist priest smiled faintly. "Your courage is commendable, but time travel is not something that can be easily mastered by human power. You need more than just science and technology; you also need a deep understanding of nature and the universe."

"Can you help us?" Zhang Wanqing asked anxiously.

The old Taoist nodded and said, "I can tell you some Taoist wisdom and methods, but the ultimate success still requires you to explore it yourself."

The old Taoist priest took out an ancient book of talismans and a wooden magic tool from the inner hall and handed them to Li Wei and Fu Siyuan.

"This book records a special spell called the 'Spacetime Talisman.' It can, under certain conditions, guide the opening of a spacetime rift," the old Taoist explained. "And this magical tool, called the 'Spirit Guiding Staff,' can enhance the spell's power."

"How should we use them?" Li Wei asked.

The old Taoist priest smiled faintly. "First, you need to find a suitable place during a thunderstorm. Then, follow the instructions in the book, draw the time and space symbol, and use the spirit-guiding staff to guide the symbol's energy. But remember, all of this needs to be accomplished under the power of nature; it cannot be forced."

"The power of nature?" Zhang Wanqing was a little confused.

"Yes," the old Taoist said, "Opening a rift in time and space requires the right time, place, and people. You must follow nature's will and not interfere forcefully. Otherwise, not only will you fail, but it will also bring unpredictable dangers."