The Three-Body Problem 0: Ball Lightning

I read it expecting a narrative similar to the existing Three-Body series, but in conclusion, it has an independent narrative.
However, the appearance of Ding Yi, a key character in the Three-Body series, along with technical themes and hints of a transcendental observer, allow it to function as a grand prelude to the Three-Body series.

It expresses the realistic barriers between academic exploration and mainstream science.
The realistic barriers that pure science faces are somewhat cold.
It shows that scientific discovery is not just about genius inspiration, but also a series of tedious and painful data collection and failures.

He joins a weapon development team to receive massive research funding and state-of-the-art equipment.
This creates a confrontation between "pure intellectual curiosity" and "violence disguised as peace."
While it is obvious that it will be used for violent purposes, I feel it is too irresponsible that he doesn't care at all just to satisfy his curiosity.
What matters is that it is a blade, no matter where it is pointed.

Although "observation" in quantum mechanics is mainly discussed, the author seems to have limited the act of observation to observation of the macroscopic world.
However, contact with any other microscopic entity is also an observation.