NASA's SDO captures image of mid-level flare
A mid-level solar flare was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on September 4, 2017. The M5.5 class flare may cause disturbances in the atmosphere where GPS and communications signals travel.
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Photosynthesis discovery could help design more efficient artificial solar cells
Researchers at Georgia State University discovered that a process called inverted-region electron transfer contributes to the high efficiency of solar energy conversion in photosynthesis. This mechanism can be used to design new and better types of artificial solar cells.
SourceGeorgia State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2017
NREL, Swiss scientists power past solar efficiency records
Researchers at NREL and EPFL achieved record efficiencies of 32.8% and 35.9% for dual-junction and triple-junction solar cells, respectively. The high-efficiency cells could reduce the cost of solar energy by up to 45 cents per watt.
Spoiler alert: Computer simulations provide preview of upcoming eclipse
Researchers used Stampede2 supercomputer to forecast solar eclipse corona, shedding light on sun's structure and space weather. The simulations, completed with NASA's Pleiades and other computers, provided highly detailed models of the sun's surface and predicted the solar corona's appearance during the Aug. 21 eclipse.
Nanotechnology gives green energy a green color
Researchers in the Netherlands have created efficient green solar panels using soft imprint lithography, which scatter green light and maintain a 10% power reduction. The technology has potential to widen solar panel use as an architectural design element.
NASA watches the Sun put a stop to its own eruption
A solar filament rose from the surface of the Sun but collapsed due to invisible magnetic forces, preventing an eruption. Scientists used data from multiple NASA observatories and ground-based telescopes to track the event and develop a model that explains how the Sun's magnetic landscape terminates eruptions.
Two weeks in the life of a sunspot
A sunspot, dubbed AR12665, was tracked by NASA's satellites as it rotated into view on July 5, 2017. The active region produced several solar flares, a coronal mass ejection, and a solar energetic particle event over its 13-day journey.
Solar glasses generate solar power
Researchers from KIT have developed sunglasses with colored, semitransparent solar cells that supply a microprocessor and two displays with electric power. The solar cell lenses are thin and lightweight, generating enough power to operate devices like hearing aids or step counters in indoor environments.
ESA, NASA's SOHO reveals rapidly rotating solar core
Scientists have discovered evidence of a type of seismic wave in the Sun using data from NASA's SOHO. The waves, called g-modes, reveal that the solar core is rotating approximately once every week, nearly four times faster than its surface.
Researchers seek to improve solar cell technology using new materials and nanowires
A team of researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology is exploring the use of nanowires and new materials to improve solar cell technology. By maximizing the amount of solar spectrum that can be absorbed, they aim to increase the efficiency of solar power conversion and make it more cost-effective for consumer markets.
Osaka solar scientists rough up silicon panels to boost light capture
Researchers at Osaka University develop new method to create submicron structures on silicon surfaces, reducing reflection and increasing infrared light capture. The approach improves power conversion efficiency of solar cells while keeping manufacturing costs low.
UNIST hits new world efficiency record with perovskite solar cells
Researchers at UNIST have achieved a new world record efficiency performance of 22.1% in small cells and 19.7 percent in 1-square-centimeter cells using perovskite solar cells. The breakthrough is made possible by careful control of growth conditions to fix defects that reduce photoelectric efficiency.
Non-toxic alternative for next-generation solar cells
A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and the US has demonstrated a non-toxic alternative to lead for use in next-generation solar cells, using bismuth oxyiodide. The material shows comparable performance to current silicon-based solar cells, with efficiencies up to 22%.
Yes, the sun is an ordinary, solar-type star after all
A new study resolves the ongoing debate about the Sun's cyclic behavior by showing it follows the same pattern as other nearby solar-type stars. The research suggests that the Sun's magnetic cycle depends on its rotation rate and luminosity, advancing scientists' understanding of stellar magnetic fields.
Scientists design solar cell that captures nearly all energy of solar spectrum
Researchers have created a highly efficient solar cell that captures nearly all the energy in the solar spectrum, converting direct sunlight to electricity with 44.5% efficiency. The new design uses concentrator photovoltaic panels and stacked cells to capture energy from specific wavelengths of light.
Improved representation of solar variability in climate models
A new dataset provides improved representation of solar variability, enabling more accurate climate model simulations and distinguishing natural from anthropogenic processes. The dataset includes enhanced estimates of solar forcing and particle effects, which may counteract rising Earth temperatures.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateJul 3, 2017
Solar cell design using diverse plant pigments
Researchers have developed two types of solar cells with different photosensitizers, achieving higher efficiency and stability. The study used novel instrumentation to investigate environmental effects on photocurrent generated by solar cells.
SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJul 3, 2017
Air pollution casts shadow over solar energy production
A new study estimates that air pollution and dust are cutting global solar energy production by more than 25% in certain parts of the world, with China, India, and the Arabian Peninsula being the hardest hit. The regions experiencing heavy losses are also those investing the most in solar energy installations.
Ultra-stable perovskite solar cell remains stable for more than a year
Scientists have developed an ultra-stable perovskite solar cell with a constant efficiency of 11.2% for more than 10,000 hours, resolving stability issues and paving the way for commercialization. The 2D/3D hybrid perovskite design efficiently absorbs light across the visible spectrum and transports electrical charges.
Replacing coal with solar can save lives and money
A study by Michigan Technological University found that transitioning to solar photovoltaics (PV) could save up to 51,999 American lives at $1.1 million invested per life. Solar power also has economic value, producing electricity that can be profitable to invest in, sometimes as much as several million dollars per life.
SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateJun 1, 2017
Addition of in-home noninvasive ventilation to oxygen therapy improves outcomes following COPD exacerbation
A study published in JAMA found that adding home noninvasive ventilation to oxygen therapy for patients with persistent hypercapnia following a COPD flare-up significantly reduced time to hospital readmission or death. The 12-month risk of readmission or death was 63% vs 80% in the treatment and control groups, respectively.
First direct exploration of magnetic fields in the upper solar atmosphere
A team of researchers has directly observed the magnetic field in the upper solar atmosphere for the first time using ultraviolet spectropolarimetry. The study reveals more complex structures in the chromosphere and transition region than expected, with polarization varying on a spatial scale of 10-20 arcseconds.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 17, 2017
Space weather model simulates solar storms from nowhere
A NASA model has simulated stealth solar storms from the sun, showing how slow and quiet processes can create massive magnetic field twists that speed out into space without warning. The models match space-based observations, revealing a complex process that generates energy over two weeks.
Putting students closer to explosive solar events
Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology are investigating solar physics to improve prediction and countermeasures for explosive solar events. They're using high-resolution radio data from state-of-the-art telescopes like Owens Valley Solar Array.
Modeling reveals how policy affects adoption of solar energy photovoltaics in California
Researchers created a model to measure the impact of policy on commercial solar photovoltaic adoption in California, providing new insight into energy policy. The study found that government incentives have a greater impact on larger commercial customers and smaller businesses face unique hurdles when adopting solar PV systems.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateApr 25, 2017
Interdisciplinary studies reveal relationship between solar activity and climate change
Researchers have found a significant relationship between solar wind speed and North Atlantic Oscillation, suggesting a faster mechanism of solar influence on atmospheric systems. The team also developed a physical model to depict the interdecadal response of air-sea systems to solar activity.
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 24, 2017
Solar cell design with over 50 percent energy-conversion efficiency
Researchers at Kobe University developed a new solar cell structure that can absorb spectral components of longer wavelengths, increasing energy conversion efficiency to over 50%. The design achieved up-conversion based on two photons, reducing energy loss by over 100 times compared to previous methods.
SERIS develops world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module
The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) has developed the world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module, capable of producing up to 400 Watts of electric power. The module features a double-glass structure, low-temperature interconnections, and high-efficiency ZEBRA solar cells.
Trial of new triple inhaler shows 20 percent reduction in COPD flare-ups
A new triple inhaler has shown a 20% reduction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups in a year-long trial involving 2,691 patients. The study found that the inhaler improved lung function and reduced symptoms, with potential benefits for early diagnosis and targeted treatment.
NASA's solar dynamics observatory captured trio of solar flares April 2-3
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured images of three mid-level solar flares on April 2-3, 2017. The flares had M-class intensities, with the largest being an M5.8 flare.
Waves on sun give NASA new insight into space weather forecasting
Researchers discovered Rossby waves on the sun, similar to jet streams on Earth, which may allow for long-term space weather forecasting. The waves drive solar flares and coronal mass ejections, enabling predictions of flare occurrences.
Financialization's negative effect on the American solar industry
A new study reveals that financialization in the US impaired its emerging solar industry, while Japan's photovoltaics manufacturers thrived. This case study highlights the conflicting relationship between finance and production, and calls for policies that bring productive and financial capital together to support low-carbon industries.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017
Igniting a solar flare in the corona with lower-atmosphere kindling
Researchers use new telescope images to reveal the emergence of small-scale magnetic fields in the corona, which may trigger solar flares. The study suggests that these magnetic field structures are linked to the onset of a main flare and could help predict flares with more precision.
New Stanford study calls for US solar policy reform
The report recommends increasing US spending on solar R&D, encouraging international collaborations with China, and reforming federal policies to prioritize cost reduction. The researchers argue that the US should capitalize on its strengths in research and development while addressing concerns around intellectual property protection.
Nanotube film may resolve longevity problem of challenger solar cells
Researchers from Aalto University have developed a nanotube film that can replace traditional materials in perovskite solar cells, improving their stability and lifetime. The new material has conductivity as high as possible and can be made transparent and thin, making it suitable for use as the front contact of the cell.
Scientists identify a black hole choking on stardust
Researchers discovered a supermassive black hole 'choking' on stellar debris, producing small fluctuations in the energy emitted by the flare. The study provides insight into how black holes grow and evolve, offering a potential window into hidden black holes.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 15, 2017
Low level vitamin D during remission contributes to relapse in ulcerative colitis patients
A new study found that lower vitamin D levels in blood increase the risk of clinical relapse in UC patients. Patients with higher vitamin D levels when in remission were less likely to experience a relapse.
SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateFeb 17, 2017
Printable solar cells just got a little closer
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new chemical reaction that enables the growth of an electron-selective layer made of nanoparticles in solution, directly on top of the electrode. This breakthrough reduces the manufacturing temperature and improves efficiency, paving the way for low-cost, printable solar panels.
SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017
Scientists estimate solar nebula's lifetime
Researchers estimated the solar nebula's lifetime using ancient meteorites, finding it lasted around 3 to 4 million years. This discovery suggests gas giants Jupiter and Saturn formed within the first 4 million years of the solar system's formation.
Scientists estimate solar nebula's lifetime
The team estimated the solar nebula's lifetime using ancient meteorites that formed 4.653 billion years ago, suggesting it disappeared within the first 4 million years of the solar system's formation. The findings indicate that gas giants Jupiter and Saturn must have formed early in the solar system's history.
Powerful change: A profile of today's solar consumer
A QUT study reveals that solar PV systems are being acquired by families with lower incomes, contradicting the long-held notion that it is a luxury reserved for high-income individuals. The research found that financial capacity, education status, and home ownership were not the primary factors driving solar uptake.
SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateFeb 6, 2017
NASA's Fermi sees gamma rays from 'hidden' solar flares
The Fermi telescope has observed high-energy light from solar eruptions on the far side of the sun, which should block direct light. This allows scientists to study how charged particles are accelerated to nearly the speed of light during solar flares.
Storing solar power increases energy consumption and emissions, study finds
Researchers found that storing solar energy for nighttime use increases household annual energy consumption by 8-14% and indirectly raises carbon dioxide emissions. This contradicts the myth that storage is needed to integrate distributed solar power.
CWRU directly measures how perovskite solar films efficiently convert light to power
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have directly measured the diffusion length of perovskite solar films, showing that electrons can travel long distances without deteriorating. The findings suggest that solar cells could be made thicker without harming their efficiency, potentially leading to better solar panels.
Stability challenge in perovskite solar cell technology
A new study has found that iodide-based perovskites produce a gaseous form of iodine during operation, causing further degradation of the material. The researchers suggest that developing new materials with reduced iodine concentrations or reinforced structures could help address this issue.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 23, 2016
Physics, photosynthesis and solar cells
A team of researchers has developed a new type of quantum heat engine photocell that can regulate solar power conversion without active feedback or adaptive control mechanisms. This design is inspired by the natural regulation of energy flow in photosynthetic green plants, and could lead to more efficient and cost-effective solar cells.
Throwing new light on printed organic solar cells
Scientists at the University of Surrey achieved record power conversion efficiencies for large area organic solar cells, outperforming traditional inorganic solar cells. The innovative cells can be printed in different colors and shapes, making them ideal for powering devices on-the-go, such as Internet of Things applications.
New fabrication technique leads to broader sunlight absorption in plastic solar cells
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel fabrication technique for more efficient plastic solar cells. The new method uses sequentially cast ternary systems to prevent alloying issues, resulting in wider optical sensitivity and increased efficiency.
Researchers propose low-mass supernova triggered formation of solar system
A team led by Professor Yong-Zhong Qian uses new models and meteorite evidence to show a low-mass supernova triggered the formation of our solar system. The study found that short-lived nuclei in meteorites are consistent with a low-mass supernova trigger, supporting the theory that this event played a key role in solar system formation.
A new way to image solar cells in 3-D
Researchers from Berkeley Lab developed a way to image thin-film solar cells in 3D using optical microscopy, revealing internal obstacles that can trap electrons and reduce efficiency. The method has already improved understanding of the benefits of treating CdTe solar cells with cadmium chloride.
New way to make low-cost solar cell technology
Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to fabricate high-efficiency semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, which can improve the performance of conventional silicon solar cells. The new fabrication method could increase power output by up to 25% and achieve efficiencies of up to 30%.
Major advance in solar cells made from cheap, easy-to-use perovskite
Scientists have developed a new design for solar cells made from perovskite, achieving an average steady-state efficiency of 18.4%. The innovative tandem solar cell combines two types of perovskite into one photovoltaic cell, absorbing nearly the entire spectrum of visible light and outperforming traditional silicon-based solar cells.
New maps show where to generate solar energy in South Carolina
Researchers at Clemson University created maps showing the suitability of lands in South Carolina for generating solar energy, with a focus on five-megawatt and one-megawatt developments. The study found that about 4.2% of state land area is suitable for five-megawatt developments, enough to install 69.6 gigawatts of capacity.
Tracking waves from sunspots gives new solar insight
Scientists have tracked a particular kind of solar wave as it swept upward from the sun's surface through its atmosphere, adding to our understanding of how solar material travels throughout the sun. The study provides a novel tool for scientists to study the atmosphere of the sun and sheds light on the coronal heating problem.
New perovskite solar cell design could outperform existing commercial technologies
Researchers from Stanford and Oxford have created a novel perovskite solar cell design that converts sunlight into electricity with an efficiency of 20.3 percent, rivaling silicon solar cells on the market today.
The Sun's coronal tail wags its photospheric dog
Researchers discovered that solar flares accelerate sunspot rotation speeds, revealing a complex relationship between the Sun's magnetic fields. This phenomenon challenges current theories on solar flares and has significant implications for understanding energy transport in eruptions.
X-ray vision reveals how polymer solar cells wear out
Researchers used DESY's X-ray source PETRA III to observe the degradation of plastic solar cells, revealing that domains shrink and efficiency decreases due to residual solvent additive. Strategies to stabilise structure through chemical bonding or customised encapsulating substances are proposed.
MinXSS CubeSat brings new information to study of solar flares
The MinXSS CubeSat collects data on soft X-rays, providing insight into solar flare physics and temperature, density, and abundance of solar flare material. This information is crucial for understanding how flares evolve and heat the sun's atmosphere.
Efficient organic solar cells with very low driving force
Efficient organic solar cells have been created using a non-fullerene material, achieving high energy efficiency rates of up to 9.5%. This breakthrough indicates that the intrinsic limitations of organic solar cells are comparable to other photovoltaic technologies, paving the way for commercialization.
Non-toxic solvent removes barrier to commercialization of perovskite solar cells
Scientists at Oxford University have developed a non-toxic solvent system that can be used to manufacture perovskite solar cells, overcoming a major barrier to their commercialization. The clean solvent quickly crystallizes perovskite films at room temperature, making it suitable for coating large solar panels.