The newest prime was found by a member of the GIMPS team (Great
Internet Mersenne Prime Search). I am a member of that team, and I have
two computers searching a range of possible values.
I note that the GIMPS team is made up of roughly 2000 volunteers.
Simple math tells me that if most casualty actuaries joined the team
(say 2000 of the 2500), then we would double the team size and the
probability that the next prime would be found by an actuary would be
roughly 1/2. (I realize that my numbers are optimistic, but a
meaningful participation by actuaries would result in a measurable
chance that fame and fortune could accrue to an actuary.
If anyone is interested, there are links to the site with the
downloadable software in the press release listed above. It runs in the
background, and doesn't measurably affect your computer during regular
work.
Visit the CAS Web Site at http://www.casact.org
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