Explore a 50-minute conference talk on zero-point photon scattering in real materials, focusing on lessons from precision Casimir force measurements. Delivered by Umar Mohideen from UC Riverside at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics, this presentation was part of the "Quantum and Thermal Electrodynamic Fluctuations in the Presence of Matter: Progress and Challenges" conference. Delve into the complex world of classical and quantum fluctuating electromagnetic fields in the presence of matter, examining their impact on various fundamental and practical phenomena in physics, chemistry, and engineering. Gain insights into recent milestones in Casimir interactions between bodies and the role of quantum field fluctuations in heat transfer. Discover novel questions and remaining puzzles in the field, including the implications of 2D topological and non-reciprocal materials, the possibility of detecting quantum friction, and discrepancies between experimental and theoretical results. Understand how unraveling these mysteries could significantly influence fundamental science and innovative material applications. Read more