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Optica


Reconfigurable metasurfaces provide nanoscale light control

Researchers designed electromechanically reconfigurable ultrathin optical elements that can be controlled on a pixel-by-pixel level. These versatile metasurfaces could offer a new chip-based way to achieve nanoscale control of light, leading to better optical displays and information encoding.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 9, 2021

Researchers create switchable mirrors from liquid metal

Scientists developed a method to dynamically switch liquid metal surfaces between reflective and scattering states using electricity. This technology could be used to create electrically controllable mirrors or illumination devices, enabling new applications in art and advanced devices.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateJun 14, 2021

Researchers use transoceanic fiber link for geophysical sensing

Scientists demonstrate a new technique to sense geophysical events using transoceanic fiber optic cables, offering potential for early warnings of tsunamis and earthquakes. The method measures tiny changes in polarization of transmitted light, enabling monitoring of previously inaccessible ocean depths.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJun 10, 2021

Researchers take quantum encryption out of the lab

A field trial demonstrates a stable and efficient quantum key distribution (QKD) system that can generate quantum-secure cryptographic keys at sustained rates over a standard telecommunications infrastructure. The system, developed by researchers in Italy, is designed to be easy-to-operate and integrate into existing optical networks.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 9, 2021

New microscopy method reaches deeper into the living brain

Researchers have developed a new technique called diffuse optical localization imaging (DOLI) that enables noninvasive imaging of the brain's microvasculature and neural activity at depths of up to 4 millimeters. This method uses the NIR-II window and is poised to bring new insight into how the brain works in health and disease.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMay 27, 2021

New imaging technology could help predict heart attacks

Researchers developed a new intravascular imaging technique, ILSI, which can detect unstable coronary plaques. The technique provides a direct assessment of mechanical stability, allowing for early detection and treatment of high-risk vulnerable plaques.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateMar 16, 2021

Researchers set new resolution record for imaging the human eye

A new imaging method has been developed that can capture high-resolution images of photoreceptors in the human eye, overcoming resolution limitations imposed by light diffraction. The technique uses annular pupil illumination and sub-Airy detection to enhance microscopy techniques for earlier detection and treatment of eye diseases.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMar 11, 2021

New sensor paves way to low-cost sensitive methane measurements

Researchers developed a new sensor using interband cascade light emitting device (ICLED) to detect methane concentrations as low as 0.1 parts per million. The ICLED-based sensors could be used to monitor emissions from livestock and dairy farms, and enable more accurate climate crisis monitoring.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 22, 2021

Metamaterial tiles boost sensitivity of large telescopes

Researchers developed low-cost, mass-producible metamaterial tiles to absorb environmental emissions and improve telescope sensitivity. The tiles enabled unprecedented sensitivity in measuring the cosmic microwave background, transforming our understanding of the universe's beginning and evolution.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateJan 26, 2021

Raman spectroscopy shows promise for diagnosing oral cancer

Researchers demonstrate that Raman spectroscopy can distinguish between healthy tissue, OSCC, and non-cancerous lesions with high accuracy. The technique could enable non-invasive cancer screening in the dentist's chair, reducing diagnostic delays and invasive procedures.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateJan 13, 2021

New optical method paves way to breath test for cancer biomarker

Researchers have developed a sensitive optical method to detect formaldehyde in exhaled breath, which could lead to an inexpensive and fast way to screen for lung and breast cancer. The new approach uses multipass spectroscopy with optical fringe quenching technique, allowing detection of formaldehyde at low concentrations.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 16, 2020

Ultrafast fiber laser produces record high power

The research team developed a new ultrafast fiber laser that produces an average power of over 10 kW without significant degradation in beam quality. This technology paves the way for industrial-scale materials processing and visionary applications such as space debris removal.

SourceOptica·DateOct 12, 2020

Nanoscale machines convert light into work

Researchers developed tiny optically powered machines that self-assemble and can manipulate tiny cargo for applications like nanofluidics and particle sorting. The machines use circularly polarized light from a laser to create a nanoparticle array acting like a gear, influencing nearby particles to orbit the array.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 8, 2020

Researchers 3D print tiny multicolor microstructures

The new method enables precision fabrication of optical components and multimaterial structures, eliminating assembling processes. It allows the production of devices with high precision and low cost, and could aid in the miniaturization of optical devices used for medical treatments and diagnoses.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateSep 16, 2020