A pilot study found that an examiner-worn, neck-mounted camera can supplement the observation and review of clinical skills during OSCE assessments. The results showed moderate to strong agreement between live and video-based assessments, with the wearable camera enabling more observations to be evaluated than the fixed camera.
SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2026
A new laparoscopic imaging technique uses stereo depth estimation and speckle-illumination SFDI to accurately map the optical properties of biological tissue. The device provides detailed optical property maps, enabling surgeons to identify critical tumor margins and improve clinical outcomes.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 17, 2025
The KeyScope is a low-cost, robust laparoscope priced at approximately $1,000, making it accessible in low- and middle-income countries. It offers high-resolution images, color accuracy, and low distortion, comparable to standard laparoscopes.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·DateFeb 5, 2025
Researchers at UCLA developed a new type of imaging technology that forms images in only one direction, enabling efficient and compact methods for asymmetric visual information processing and communication. The technology works exceptionally well under partially coherent light, achieving high-quality imaging with high power efficiency.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 29, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
A new imaging device that combines optical coherence tomography (OCT) with traditional otoscopy improves diagnostic capabilities for hearing clinics. The integrated device provides detailed views of the eardrum and middle ear, enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatment.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateAug 23, 2024
Researchers developed DeepLens design method based on curriculum learning to optimize complex lens designs. The approach considers key parameters like resolution, aperture, and field of view, providing optimal solutions without human intervention.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 2024
Researchers at UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science developed artificial compound eyes that mimic praying mantis vision, offering improved depth perception and reduced power consumption by over 400 times compared to traditional systems.
SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 24, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
This study proposes RealFuVSR, a model that extracts and fuses features from multiple scales to eliminate artifacts. It uses deformable convolution, multi-scale feature extraction, cascade residual upsampling, and simulation of real-world degradation.
SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateJan 31, 2024
A new technology uses meta-optical devices to perform thermal imaging, providing richer information about imaged objects. The approach can be used for various applications such as autonomous navigation, material identification, security, and medical imaging.
Researchers developed 'acoustic touch' smart glasses that translate visual information into distinct sound icons, enhancing the ability of blind or low-vision individuals to navigate their surroundings. The technology significantly improved object recognition and reaching abilities, empowering independence and quality of life.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 25, 2023
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.
Advances in VR display technology have overcome the 'screen door effect' by introducing 2117 PPI LCDs with high partition mini LED backlighting. This enhances contrast, color accuracy, and viewing angles, making VR experiences more immersive.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateOct 19, 2023
Researchers have developed high-resolution near-eye displays with integrated light field technology, overcoming limitations of earlier displays. The new designs feature improved resolution, pixel density, and vision correction capabilities, resulting in enhanced visual comfort and immersive VR experiences.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateSep 19, 2023
The new microscope uses structured illumination and optical fibers to achieve fast super-resolution imaging over a wide field of view, enabling the study of individual cell responses to various drugs. The system can image multiple cells simultaneously with high resolution, providing statistical information about cell response.
Researchers have proposed an innovative solution to address limitations of lidar technology, enabling imaging in low SNR environments. The novel technique uses a high-scanning speed AOD and metasurface-enhanced scanning lidar, extending ambiguity range by up to 35 times.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJul 20, 2023
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.
A new study by NASA and Japan's Osaka University suggests that rogue planets, drifting through space without a star, may outnumber stars with orbiting worlds. The Roman Space Telescope could discover up to 400 Earth-mass rogue planets, according to the findings.
SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateJul 19, 2023
Researchers have developed flexible photodetectors that can detect visible to long-wave infrared radiation, covering the full spectrum of greenhouse gases without complex optical components. The new detectors are simple and cost-effective to make, with production at room temperature.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023
Scientists have created a synthetic survey that showcases what can be expected from the Roman Space Telescope’s future observations. The simulation contains 33 million galaxies and 200,000 foreground stars, helping scientists plan observing strategies and test data analysis methods.
SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 8, 2023
A new biopsy procedure is developed with a multispectral confocal endomicroscope to aid in lung tissue imaging. The system allows for simultaneous imaging of multiple fluorescent dyes, enabling unique identification and spectral unmixing.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateJan 17, 2023
Researchers developed a one-dimensional suspended high-contrast grating structure to enable directional lasing with high energy efficiency. The device can adjust the emission angle over a wide range, from -40° to +40°, making it suitable for solid-state LiDAR applications.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 3, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers developed a photon-efficient volumetric imaging method, laterally swept light-sheet microscopy (iLSLM), which improves axial resolution and optical sectioning while reducing photobleaching. iLSLM outperforms conventional methods like swept focus light-sheet microscopy in terms of resolution and photon efficiency.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateDec 5, 2022
Speckle-correlation imaging technique extends its field of view by considering a limited memory effect. Researchers proposed an algorithm to extrapolate the correlation in reconstruction, estimating object and decay simultaneously.
SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2022
Researchers develop hybrid brightfield-darkfield transport of intensity approach, expanding accessible sample spatial frequencies and achieving 5-fold resolution increase. This method enables precise detection and quantitative analysis of subcellular features in large-scale cell studies.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateNov 3, 2022
Researchers from the University of Kassel developed an approach to extend the limits of interferometric topography measurements for optical resolution below small structures. Microsphere assistance enables fast and label-free imaging without requiring extensive sample preparation.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateNov 1, 2022
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.
A Washington State University study showed that drone photography can effectively estimate the number of rocky hollows in the Wenatchee River where salmon create their eggs. The researchers found roughly double the number of redds using drones compared to ground-level observations, but with high variability. This technology has potenti...
SourceWashington State University·JournalRiver Research and Applications·DateOct 19, 2022
Researchers developed a novel biologically-inspired intraoral camera with a wide-angle insect eye structure, increasing field of view and resolving optical aberrations. The device provides multifunctional dental imaging, including high dynamic range, 3D depth, and autofluorescence, without discomfort or image blur.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateAug 19, 2022
Researchers have developed a new chip-based beam steering device that eliminates aliasing errors, enabling high-quality beam steering over large fields of view. The device, published in Optica, has the potential to revolutionize lidar applications in autonomous driving, virtual reality, and biomedical sensing.
Researchers developed a lidar-based system for smart cars to recognize objects more accurately than cameras. The system uses a grid map to divide the field of view into regions containing individual objects.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Electronic Imaging·DateJul 6, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
The new technique, 3D optical coherence refraction tomography (3D OCRT), produces highly detailed images revealing features difficult to observe with traditional OCT. It has the potential for biomedical research and eventually more accurate medical diagnostic imaging.
Researchers at Samsung have developed a novel approach to inspect critical dimensions of semiconductor devices, improving speed and resolution. The new 'line-scan hyperspectral imaging' (LHSI) technique offers faster measurements with high spatial resolution, outperforming existing methods.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateApr 21, 2022
Researchers studied archival images from the Palomar Observatory's Zwicky Transient Facility and found that Starlink satellite streaks now appear in almost 20% of twilight images. Software can help mitigate potential problems, but the impact on astronomy is still a concern, especially for future surveys like Vera C. Rubin Observatory.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 17, 2022
The new quantum microscope uses entangled photons to create interference patterns on the sample, reducing noise levels and increasing sensitivity by over 25%. This allows for high-resolution imaging of transparent cells without damaging them.
SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 18, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers have integrated holographic optical elements to create a waveguide eye-tracking system that can track eye movements in near-infrared wavelengths. This design enables the development of more efficient and powerful augmented reality systems.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2021
Developed by Jinan University researchers, the approach produces superoscillatory light spots without side lobes. The technique utilizes a cylindrical diffraction and sharp-edged apertures to eliminate tradeoffs between main and side lobes, enabling larger field of view while maintaining feature size within optical diffraction limit.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 24, 2021
Researchers developed a new light-sheet fluorescence microscope with extended field of view and reduced photodamage, enabling high-resolution cellular imaging over three days. The technology contributes to understanding embryonic development and pathogenesis, and is expected to advance drug development.
SourceEhime University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2021
Georgia Tech inventors create a flexible Rotman lens-based rectenna system capable of millimeter-wave harvesting in the 28-GHz band, enabling large antenna operation with wide angle coverage. The technology achieved a 21-fold increase in harvested power compared to a referenced counterpart.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 25, 2021
A new MIT study found that the brain rapidly transfers a memory of an object from one hemisphere to the other when it shifts across our field of view. This process allows us to maintain control over our environment and react to changing situations with volitional control.
SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 8, 2021
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.
A new study by MIT neuroscientists demonstrates that neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex project connections into an evolutionarily older region called the superior colliculus, overriding its basic commands for reflexive movement. The research shows how inhibitory control from the ACC modulates the SC's response to facilitate exec...
SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2020
The new lens is made up of a single nanometric layer of silicon on arrays of nanoposts that interact with light. It can be used to produce high-resolution images with a wide field of view, suitable for smartphones and other devices relying on sensors.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 24, 2020
Researchers at UMass Amherst used an eye-tracker to study jumping spiders and found that the principal eyes rely on an adjacent set of eyes, known as anterior lateral eyes, to track moving stimuli. This integration is unusual in the animal kingdom.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 24, 2018
Before its scientific missions, NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) caught a comet in stunning images. The comet, C/2018 N1, was located about 29 million miles from Earth and moved across the frame as it orbited the Sun.
NanoMap enables drones to fly through cluttered spaces like cities at high speeds using a simple yet effective approach that considers the drone's position in the world over time. The system reduces crash rates from over 90% to just 2%, making it suitable for applications such as search-and-rescue, defense, and package delivery.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateFeb 12, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
Scientists from ITMO University and Tampere University of Technology developed a new algorithm to increase the resolution of images obtained in lensless microscopes. The approach relies on diffraction patterns and computational methods, allowing for improved image quality without physical changes to the microscope.
A new miniaturized camera inspired by eagles' sharp vision uses multi-aperture design to capture high-resolution images with improved center sharpness. The 'foveated imaging' system has potential in areas like endoscopy, optical sensors, and surveillance drones.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 15, 2017
A new optical device has provided the most precisely detailed, real-time pictures to date of solar activity occurring across vast stretches of the star's surface. The system corrects images distorted by atmospheric turbulence, allowing researchers to analyze magnetic events and forces that propel the star's magnetic fields.
SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateJan 10, 2017
Researchers developed approach dynamically changing user's field of view in response to visually perceived motion to reduce VR sickness. The study showed significant reduction in VR sickness experienced by participants without decreasing their sense of presence in the virtual environment.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJun 14, 2016
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.
Researchers create a deformable lens array that adapts to the sheet camera's curvature, producing high-quality images over a wide range of deformations. This innovation could lead to cameras the size of a credit card or wrapped around everyday objects.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 12, 2016
NASA engineers have developed a new mirror technology that can take almost any shape, reducing package size and improving image quality. This 'freeform optics' technology is ideal for compact telescopes on small satellites and CubeSats.
The new approach created flexible Fresnel zone plate microlenses with a wide field of view, enabling capture of broad perspectives at reduced size. The lenses are no larger than the head of a pin and can be freely reconfigured.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2015
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center team has demonstrated that electrostatically actuated microshutter arrays are as functional as magnetically activated arrays, eliminating macro-moving parts and lowering voltage needs. This advancement makes them suitable for Explorer-class missions and larger fields of view.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers have created a digital camera with a design inspired by the arthropod eye, offering exceptionally wide-angle fields of view and low aberrations. The camera uses large arrays of tiny focusing lenses and miniaturized detectors in hemispherical layouts, providing unmatched field of view and other powerful capabilities in imaging.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2013
Researchers developed a hemispherical digital camera inspired by the fly eye, featuring nearly 200 tiny lenses for exceptional wide-angle views. The camera can capture images across nearly 180 degrees, offering powerful capabilities in surveillance and endoscopic procedures.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2013
Researchers developed a novel microscopy technique that captures precise motion paths in three dimensions, tracking over 24,000 rapidly moving cells. The technique reveals previously unknown statistical pathways for human male gamete cells, showing complex twists and turns in their movements.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers have developed a novel microscopy technique that captures precise motion paths of large numbers of rapidly moving objects under a microscope. The technique recorded the paths of 24,000 human male gamete cells over several seconds, revealing previously unknown statistical pathways.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2012
A new driver's side mirror with a wider field of view has been patented, eliminating the blind spot for drivers. The curved mirror, invented by Drexel University math professor Dr. R. Andrew Hicks, gives drivers a wider view without significant visual distortion.
SourceDrexel University·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 7, 2012
A study found that using true whole-body field view in PET/CT imaging can lead to more accurate staging and restaging of cancer patients. This increased accuracy can result in changes to treatment plans and the selection of biopsy sites, ultimately reducing unnecessary invasive procedures.
SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateNov 22, 2010
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A team of astronomers from the University of Arizona developed a technique called laser adaptive optics, allowing for sharper images and faster data collection. This technology will enable scientists to study ancient galaxies and star clusters more efficiently.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2010
Researchers discovered that hammerhead sharks have an exceptional stereo view and depth perception due to their unique head shape. The study found that the scalloped hammerhead had a massive binocular overlap of 32 degrees, while the bonnethead shark had a respectable 13-degree overlap.
SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateNov 27, 2009
A new study published in the Journal of Vision found that fixing a driver's gaze on specific targets along a curve results in smoother and more stable steering. Researchers believe this technique could inform the development of next-generation in-car driving assistance systems.
SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalJournal of Vision·DateSep 2, 2008
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new camera technology that uses a curved surface to capture images, similar to the human eye. The technology, which has been published in Nature, has shown promising results in producing clearer and more detailed images than traditional cameras.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2008
The new ASTM International standard assesses robot visual capability to determine if it can provide clear, easily interpretable images to operators and emergency planners. The test methods measure field of view, far- and near-vision acuity in various lighting conditions.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 12, 2008
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.