A team led by Prof. Wolf Gero Schmidt used Hawk supercomputer to study how strategic impurities in solar cells can improve performance. They discovered that certain defects can improve exciton transfer, leading to more energy captured. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and climate-friendly energy production.
SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2024
Researchers at Uppsala University and First Solar European Technology Center have achieved a world record of 23.64 per cent efficiency in CIGS solar cells, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 per cent. The study demonstrates that CIGS thin-film technology is a competitive alternative as a stand-alone solar cell.
SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 26, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
A new study shows that UK solar parks, if managed correctly, can support insect pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The availability of a diverse range of flowering plant species within the solar farms is crucial for increased pollinator abundance and biodiversity.
SourceLancaster University·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024
A groundbreaking research breakthrough has led to the development of the world's most efficient quantum dot (QD) solar cell, retaining its efficiency even after long-term storage. The newly-developed organic PQD solar cells exhibit both high efficiency and stability simultaneously.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 21, 2024
Researchers tackled metal oxide layer degradation in semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, discovering lithium ions diffuse into the buffer layer, degrading its characteristics. Optimizing oxidation time led to a stable device with impressive efficiency and retention of over 99% initial efficiency.
SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 21, 2024
Researchers have cataloged nearly 1400 slow-rising flares using Chandrayaan-2 data, revealing a significant increase in the number of slow-building flares compared to previous decades. The study suggests that solar flares may exhibit different behaviors, including varying rates of rise and fall.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSolar Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 31, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
The rapid transition to solar-powered groundwater irrigation in low-and-middle-income countries has led to over 500,000 solar pumps installed in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. However, the benefits of this transition are complex and may come with risks, including increased groundwater extraction and potential depletion of aquifers.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2024
Researchers unveil previously unknown type of shockwave within TDEs, confirming that shock dissipation powers the brightest phases. The study paves the way for precise measurements of crucial black hole properties and testing Einstein's predictions in extreme environments.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2024
A recent study reveals that solar energy facilities planted with native grasses and wildflowers can rapidly support thriving insect populations. Total insect abundance tripled at the studied sites, providing additional pollination services to adjacent agricultural fields.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJan 17, 2024
Engineers have discovered a method to increase the stability of perovskite solar cells using bulky additives, which could enable the production of cheaper solar panels. The study suggests that larger molecules with specific configurations are most effective at preventing defects in the cells.
A KAIST research team developed a new conductive polymer material that achieved both high electrical performance and elasticity, introducing the world’s highest-performing stretchable organic solar cell. The team built a device that can be stretched up to 40% during operation, demonstrating its applicability for wearable devices.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalJoule·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 4, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
Christoph Keller, a world-recognized astronomer, has been appointed as the next Director of the National Solar Observatory (NSO) succeeding Dr. Valentin Pillet. Keller brings extensive experience and expertise in solar physics to lead NSO into its exciting future.
SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateJan 4, 2024
EtaVolt's innovative technology rejuvenates old solar cells with intense sunlight, restoring performance and protecting against light and heat damage. This game-changing solution extends the operational lifespan of solar panels, reducing energy loss and e-waste.
Scientists at Linköping University have created stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells by incorporating untreated kraft lignin into the electron transport layer. This innovation improves the overall efficiency and reliability of organic solar cells, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 6, 2023
A study analyzed 145 blazars to understand the contribution of gamma-ray flares to neutrino emission. Researchers found that blazars with lower flare duty cycles and energy fractions are more numerous, indicating a correlation between their flare activity and neutrino production.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023
A new database containing thousands of solar mirror samples offers valuable insights into degradation trends over decades. The Solar Mirror Materials Database (SMMD) provides natural and accelerated exposure data for accelerating test development, design optimization, and manufacturing guidance.
SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJournal of Solar Energy Engineering·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 31, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A six-year study of a satellite found that low-cost solar panels can withstand harsh space conditions and generate power, opening the door to large-scale solar farms in orbit. The technology has been developed by researchers at the Universities of Surrey and Swansea.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalActa Astronautica·DateOct 24, 2023
A phase 2 trial shows garetosmab significantly reduces new bone lesions and soft tissue flare-ups in FOP patients. The treatment also prevents the progression of the disease, giving hope to individuals affected by this rare condition.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 28, 2023
A new strategy optimizes optical and electrical characteristics of thin c-Si solar cells, improving conversion efficiency by 28% compared to industrial thick counterparts. The proposed design uses a layer transfer method and metal nanofilms for enhanced light absorption and surface passivation.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateSep 27, 2023
Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new class of organic dyes that can facilitate faster transport of solar energy within materials. These 'turbocharger' dyes show great promise for improving the efficiency of organic solar cells and other innovative energy applications.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2023
Researchers at University of Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute have made a breakthrough in creating more efficient and stable perovskite solar cells by coating metal halide perovskite with aluminium oxide. This development could help countries reach their net zero targets faster and make renewable energy cheaper.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalSolar RRL·DateSep 20, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Tandem solar cells combining silicon and perovskite technologies achieve higher efficiencies while strengthening stability. The connection protects the frail perovskite solar cell from voltage-induced breakdown.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters have developed flexible solar cells with efficiencies comparable to conventional solar cells. They achieved significant power conversion efficiency gains by optimizing the material composition and guest component location in ternary organic solar cells.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 4, 2023
Researchers at the University of Córdoba have designed a solar battery that can absorb light and store energy using a new material composed of 2D carbon nitride. This device combines optical simulations and photoelectrochemical experiments to achieve high performance, with potential applications in various fields.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023
Scientists have developed a new method to measure moderately saturated sources of the Ultra-Violet Optical Telescope onboard the Swift satellite. GRB 220101A is the most energetic ultraviolet/optical flare ever detected, with a luminosity approximately 400 quadrillion times that of the Sun.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJun 29, 2023
A new study from NYU Langone Health found a strong link between lupus flare-ups and specific bacterial growth in the gut, particularly Ruminococcus blautia gnavus. The researchers identified 34 genes linked to the bacterium's growth in people with inflammation, highlighting its potential role in triggering autoimmune diseases.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new calculation shows that a molecular gas filament protected the young Solar System from a nearby supernova explosion, allowing it to capture radioactive isotopes found in meteorites. The filament acted as a buffer, protecting the nascent Sun and helping to channel the isotopes into the forming Solar System.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 22, 2023
Researchers at NUS have created a new type of solar cell with improved stability and efficiency, paving the way for cheaper and more durable energy solutions. The cells achieve a world record efficiency of 24.35%, making them suitable for large-scale commercialization.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateJun 22, 2023
Researchers suggest a massive young planet is burning up in a superheated soup of raw material swirling around it, causing the star to flare. The simulation reveals a 'disc inferno' process where the planet's atmosphere ignites, feeding the star and making it shine brighter.
SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 12, 2023
Researchers used data from NASA's Parker Solar Probe to explain how the solar wind surpasses speeds of 1 million miles per hour. The energy released from the magnetic field near the sun's surface drives the fast solar wind, comprising ionized particles flowing outward from the sun.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJun 7, 2023
The Parker Solar Probe has detected streams of high-energy particles that match supergranulation flows within coronal holes, suggesting these are the origins of the fast solar wind. The solar wind's charged particles were accelerated by magnetic reconnection within funnel structures on the sun's surface.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers propose a device design that can take the efficiencies of 2D TMDC devices from 5% to 12%, doubling the weight-saving potential. This breakthrough could address the energy supply challenges in space exploration and settlements, where traditional solar cells are too heavy to be transported by rocket.
SourceCell Press·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023
A New Jersey Institute of Technology research team has been awarded a $4.64 million grant to continue studying the Sun's explosive activity at Big Bear Solar Observatory. The team will use the observatory's unique imaging capabilities and stable seeing conditions to investigate solar phenomenon as activity on the Sun ramps up.
Researchers used simulations to analyze the Lyman Continuum spectrum in dozens of simulated solar flares, confirming its connection to plasma temperature. The study found that analysis of this spectrum can be used for diagnosis of the solar plasma during solar storms.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 16, 2023
New research suggests that households could break even on their solar panel investments by 2027, thanks to a steady decline in cost outlay and return on investment. The study also predicts that solar electricity will become a more competitive energy source, making it 40-50% cheaper by 2035.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Perovskite solar cells face stability issues that hinder their widespread adoption. Researchers from Surrey University aim to improve the design of these cells by stabilizing photoactive phases.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·DateApr 27, 2023
Researchers have identified optimal flight routes for solar-powered airships, which can significantly reduce both transport costs and CO2 emissions of air travel. With a maximum of five percent of carbon dioxide generated compared to conventional air transport, solar airships offer a promising alternative.
SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Energy·DateApr 26, 2023
Researchers at Colorado State University propose using ultrathin films of molybdenum disulfide to improve solar cell efficiency. The material displays unprecedented charge carrier properties that could lead to drastic improvements in solar technologies.
SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023
Research published in Science Translational Medicine found that gum disease may trigger an immune response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Breaches in damaged gums allow oral bacteria to seep into the bloodstream, activating an immune response that targets the body's own proteins and causes flare-ups.
SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 17, 2023
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new type of solar roof that can harness energy from sunlight without blocking light for plants. The innovative design uses semi-transparent organic solar cells with a layer of L-glutathione, which extends the cells' lifetime and improves efficiency.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Research at Cornell University found that co-locating solar panels with commercial agriculture can improve power conversion efficiency and solar-panel longevity. Agrivoltaic systems offer increased passive cooling through taller panel heights, more reflective ground cover, and higher evapotranspiration rates.
SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateMar 6, 2023
Researchers at University of Birmingham develop AI diagnostic tool to predict ulcerative colitis flare-ups with 89% accuracy. The system identifies markers of inflammation and healing, providing analytical support for clinicians in managing the disease.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalGastroenterology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2023
Channeling ions into grain boundaries in perovskite materials improves the stability and operational performance of perovskite solar cells, paving the way for more efficient and practical solar cell technologies. This breakthrough finding may also inform the development of more efficient energy storage technologies.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023
A team of researchers has uncovered the source location of a 'heartbeat-like' radio signal in a C-class solar flare, more than 5,000 kilometers above the Sun's surface. The discovery sheds light on the physical processes behind energy release and dissipation in solar flares.
SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2023
Researchers at UToledo discovered a way to enhance adhesion and mechanical toughness in perovskite solar cells using DPPP, improving durability and power conversion efficiency. The breakthrough allows for the commercialization of new photovoltaic technology to replace silicon and lower cost of solar electricity.
SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers reveal thermal instability of halide perovskite solar cells due to surface treatment with large positively charged ions. However, their work also provides a direction for engineers to improve the stability of this technology, potentially leading to more efficient and stable solar technologies.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
The BepiColombo and Solar Orbiter missions provided a unique insight into Venus' atmosphere retention through their gravity-assist flyby. The study revealed that the induced magnetosphere protects the atmosphere from solar wind erosion, extending to an unexpected distance of 1,900 km above the planet's surface.
SourceEuroplanet·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023
A $2.3 million grant from the US Department of Energy funds a 'solar testbed' at I-79 Technology Park in Fairmont, supporting research on battery storage, grid integration, and cybersecurity. The project aims to assess solar panel health and monitor grid interactions with solar power.
Researchers found small signals in the corona that can identify regions more likely to produce solar flares. The new database of Sun images makes it easier for scientists to study active regions and develop tools to predict solar flares.
SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJan 17, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers have developed a new low-temperature deposition process that reduces the formation of detrimental gallium oxide in bifacial CIGS solar cells. This allows for improved energy conversion efficiency, with values of 19.8% for front illumination and 10.9% for rear illumination.
SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Energy·TypeNews article·DateDec 14, 2022
Researchers have observed long, web-like plasma structures in the Sun's middle corona, which discharge particles into space through interactions within the structures. This innovative observation method could lead to a better understanding of the solar wind's origins and its interactions with the rest of the solar system.
SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2022
MIT engineers create ultralight fabric solar cells that can generate 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar cells, making them ideal for wearable power fabrics or deployment in remote locations. The technology can be integrated into built environments with minimal installation needs.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall Methods·DateDec 9, 2022
Scientists recreated small solar flares in a lab using high-powered lasers, shedding light on the mechanisms behind magnetic reconnection. They recorded electrical currents and plasma acceleration, providing new insights into this fundamental astronomical phenomenon.
SourceKyushu University·JournalPhysical Review E·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022
Direct observation of magnetic reconnection in the solar wind reveals a common bursty state, leading to plasma acceleration and heating. Turbulent reconnection increases with solar wind speed, highlighting its role in energizing plasmas.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 2, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers found that optimizing solar panel spacing and direction can increase energy production by 2-3% through natural convection. The study's model improves estimates of solar plant efficiency, paving the way for more accurate cost predictions.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 29, 2022
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new method to express energy loss in organic solar cells, revealing that disorder plays a significant role in determining overall energy loss. By understanding and minimizing disorder, scientists can create more efficient devices with homogeneous mixtures of materials.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJoule·DateNov 18, 2022
A new study identifies sexual activity as a potential trigger for asthma exacerbations, which can be managed with the guidance of an allergist. The authors suggest that discussing sex with an allergist can help patients avoid triggering flares and improve their quality of life.
SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateNov 10, 2022
Astronomers used the Young Supernova Experiment to detect an intermediate-mass black hole in a dwarf galaxy, revealing its mass and providing insight into supermassive black hole growth. The study aims to improve understanding of black hole-galaxy relationships and inform theories on supermassive black hole formation.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2022
Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to boost the performance of silicon photovoltaic cells. By adding passivating contacts, they significantly reduce electrical losses and increase productivity.
SourceAustralian National University·JournalSolar·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers have developed bifacial monolithic all-perovskite tandem solar cells with significantly higher output power potential. The design uses transparent conductive oxide as rear electrodes, enabling the harvest of light on both sides of the device.
SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateOct 16, 2022