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OLEDs light the way to faster longer-distance wireless communication

Researchers have developed OLED-based systems that achieve data rates of up to 4.0 Gbps over 2 meters and 2.9 Gbps over 10 meters, surpassing previous records. The breakthrough uses a stable organic compound called dinaphthylperylene to balance brightness and speed.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJul 17, 2025

Teaching lasers to self-correct in high-precision patterned laser micro-grooving

A new laser machining method enables high-precision patterned laser micro-grooving with root mean square errors below 0.5 μm. This technique allows for rapid and scalable manufacturing of custom microstructures, advancing applications in microfluidic devices, sensors, and heat dissipation systems.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 9, 2025

Tunable laser light

Researchers at Harvard and TU Wien have developed a new type of tunable semiconductor laser with smooth, reliable, and wide-range wavelength tuning in a simple chip-sized design. This innovation could replace many types of tunable lasers with a smaller, more cost-effective package.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Uncovering the role of spacers in advancing portable, low-voltage OLEDs

A nanometer-thin spacer layer has been inserted into exciplex upconversion OLEDs (ExUC-OLEDs) to improve energy transfer, enhancing blue light emission by 77-fold. This design enables the use of previously incompatible materials, paving the way for lightweight, low-voltage, and more flexible OLEDs.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalACS Applied Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2025

Unlocking new optical power in glass using precision printing

Researchers have developed a new method to 3D-print glass structures with nanoscale precision, achieving nearly 100% reflectance in the visible spectrum. This breakthrough opens up a broader role for glass in nanophotonics, including wearable optics, integrated displays, and sensors.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 19, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Deterministic form-position deflectometric measurement of monolithic multi-freeform optical structures via Bayesian multisensor fusion

A team of scientists proposes an integrated form-position deflectometric system for measuring monolithic multi-freeform optical elements using Bayesian multisensor fusion. The approach achieves high accuracy and determinacy, enabling hundreds of nanometers measurement accuracy for surface forms.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMay 27, 2025

High-speed binary phase-engraved superpixels improve complex light modulation

Researchers developed binary phase-engraved (BiPE) superpixel CFM to overcome limitations of existing technology, enabling high-speed and high-efficiency complex field modulation. BiPE superpixels can utilize all incident light components, increasing optical efficiency.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMay 27, 2025

Non-reciprocal response in silicon photonic resonators integrated with 2D CuCrP₂S₆ at short-wave infrared

Researchers integrated 2D CuCrP₂S₆ onto silicon microring resonators, achieving a compact and efficient non-reciprocal optical response. The device exhibits low insertion loss, high isolation, and a wide bandwidth, enabling practical applications in next-generation optical isolators and photonic circuits.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 23, 2025
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.

Major step for flat and adjustable optics

Scientists at Linköping University have made a significant breakthrough in creating controllable flat optics using nanostructures on a flat surface. By precisely controlling the distance between antennas, they achieved up to tenfold improvement in performance, opening up new avenues for applications such as video holograms and biomedic...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 21, 2025

Industrial applications of AR headsets: a review of the devices and experience

A team of scientists analyzed industry applications of AR headsets, assessing image quality, functionality, and ergonomic factors. They proposed a metric for device comparison, enabling companies to select the most suitable headset for specific application scenarios.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMay 20, 2025

USTC develops self-positioning microdevices for adaptable spatial displaying

Researchers from USTC developed a series of CPL 3D display systems using integrated microelectronic printing and self-positioning capabilities. This technology enables real-time dynamic modulation of luminescent units, achieving high-quality stereoscopic imaging with minimized visual fatigue.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 18, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

One glass, full color: sub-millimeter waveguide shrinks AR glasses

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) have developed an achromatic metagrating that handles all colors in a single glass layer, eliminating the need for multiple layers. This breakthrough enables vivid full-color images using a 500-µm-thick single-layer waveguide.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 8, 2025

Scientists create a ‘brilliantly luminous’ nanoscale chemical tool

Researchers developed fluorescent polyionic nanoclays that can be customized for medical imaging, sensor technology, and environmental protection. These tiny clay-based materials exhibit high brightness and versatility, enabling precise tuning of optical properties.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 16, 2025

Scientists create optical device that mimics black holes

Researchers have designed an optical device that functions as an optical black hole or white hole, behaving like a cosmic object that either swallows or repels light. This device relies on coherent perfect absorption of light waves and offers new possibilities for manipulating light-matter interactions.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateApr 15, 2025
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.

Do neurons transmit light?

Scientists investigate whether living neurons can transport light through their axons, which would significantly change current models of the nervous system. If successful, it could have major implications for treating brain diseases and healing the brain.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateApr 14, 2025

Amplifier with tenfold bandwidth opens up for super lasers

A new amplifier developed by Chalmers University of Technology can transmit ten times more data per second than current systems, holding significant potential for various critical laser systems, including medical diagnostics and treatment. The amplifier's large bandwidth enables precise analyses and imaging of tissues and organs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2025

Three University of Virginia Engineering faculty elected as AAAS Fellows

Three UVA Engineering faculty members have been elected as AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in computer architecture, energy transport, and hydrology. Sandhya Dwarkadas, Patrick E. Hopkins, and Venkataraman Lakshmi were recognized for their innovative research and contributions to their respective fields.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 1, 2025
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.

Good vibrations: Scientists discover a groundbreaking method for exciting phonon-polaritons

Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center have developed a groundbreaking method to excite phonon-polaritons using an electrical current, enabling the creation of novel nanoscale lasers and efficient electronic device cooling. The discovery could lead to transformative advancements in energy-efficient, compact technologies.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2025

Twisting atomically thin materials could advance quantum computers

Scientists at the University of Rochester have discovered a way to create artificial atoms within twisted monolayers of molybdenum diselenide, retaining information when activated by light. This breakthrough could lead to new types of quantum devices, such as memory or nodes in a quantum network.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 17, 2025

Lightening the load of augmented reality glasses

A team of researchers developed augmented reality glasses that receive images from projectors instead of generating them, reducing weight while maintaining high-quality visuals. The new light-receiving mechanism expands the angle at which the glasses can receive projected light, allowing users to freely move their heads.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2025
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.

Harnessing electromagnetic waves and quantum materials to improve wireless communication technologies

A team of researchers from the University of Ottawa has developed innovative methods to enhance frequency conversion of terahertz (THz) waves in graphene-based structures, unlocking new potential for faster, more efficient technologies in wireless communication and signal processing. These advancements hold great promise for wireless c...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2025

Observation of new electric field signals strong potential for assorted devices: new research at City University of Hong Kong

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have observed a new vortex electric field with the potential to enhance electronic, magnetic and optical devices. The discovery enables the creation of quasicrystals with versatile applications in memory stability, computing speed, spintronics and sensing devices.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Accelerating 3D nanofabrication using a sensitive cationic photoresist

A new type of cationic epoxy photoresist exhibits greater sensitivity to two-photon laser exposure, enabling fast writing speeds and fine features. The material was developed by a research team led by Professor Cuifang Kuang, who achieved lithography speeds of 100 mm/s and resolution of 170 nm.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

An OLED for compact, lightweight night vision

A new type of OLED device can amplify and convert near infrared light into visible light, promising low power consumption and long battery life. The device has a memory effect that could enable computer vision systems to sense and interpret incoming light signals.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 17, 2024

A smoother way to study ‘twistronics’

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new device that can easily twist and study 2D materials, opening up new possibilities for discovering new phases of matter. This innovation uses micro-electromechanical systems to control the twist angle, making it easier to produce unique samples and study their properties.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2024

Unique nanodisk pushing photonic research forward

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have successfully combined nonlinear and high-index nanophotonics in a single nanoobject, creating a disk-like structure with unique optical properties. The discovery has great potential for developing efficient and compact nonlinear optical devices.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 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.

Quantum researchers publish ‘exciting’ particle prediction

Researchers predict the existence of a new type of exciton with finite vorticity, called a 'topological exciton,' in Chern insulators. This prediction has the potential to enable the development of novel optoelectronic devices for quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 27, 2024

Tiny quantum sensor to make a big impact

Researchers developed a new 2D quantum sensing chip using hexagonal boron nitride that can simultaneously detect temperature anomalies and magnetic fields in any direction. The chip is significantly thinner than current quantum technology for magnetometry, enabling cheaper and more versatile sensors.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2024
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.

You're just a stick figure to this camera

A new camera system called PrivacyLens can replace people in images with generic stick figures, protecting their identities and reducing unnecessary surveillance. This technology could prevent embarrassing photos from being shared online and make patients more comfortable using cameras for chronic health monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJul 15, 2024

UMD researchers develop new and improved camera inspired by the human eye

The University of Maryland team created a camera mechanism that mimics the involuntary movements of the human eye, resulting in sharper and more accurate images. The Artificial Microsaccade-Enhanced Event Camera (AMI-EV) has implications for robotics, national defense, and industries relying on accurate image capture.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 1, 2024

World record 402 Tb/s transmission in a standard commercially available optical fiber

A team at NICT set a new world record for data-rate transmission in a standard optical fiber, reaching 402 Tb/s and increasing the aggregate bandwidth to 37.6 THz. The demonstration used novel technologies to access new wavelength regions, enabling future optical communication infrastructure to meet growing demands.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024
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.

Miniaturizing a laser on a photonic chip

Researchers developed a chip-scale erbium-doped waveguide laser that approaches fiber-based laser performance, featuring wide wavelength tunability and stable output. The breakthrough enables low-cost, portable systems for various applications including telecommunications, medical diagnostics, and consumer electronics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 10, 2024

New technology gives people a better sense of what they’re breathing

Scientists developed a miniaturized micro-spectrometer to detect multiple toxic and greenhouse gases, offering increased control over individual exposure. The technology uses machine learning and metasurface spectral filter arrays to create a compact sensor that can be integrated into wearable devices.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024

New all-optical approach to revolutionize night vision technology

Researchers at TMOS have developed a new infrared filter thinner than cling wrap, which can be integrated into everyday eyewear, allowing users to view both visible and infrared light spectra. This breakthrough miniaturizes night vision technology, opening up new applications in safety, surveillance, and biology.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2024

Streamlined microcomb design provides control with the flip of a switch

Researchers at the University of Rochester developed a new microcomb laser design that provides low power efficiency, high tunability, and easy operation. The simplified approach enables direct control over the comb with a single switch, opening up potential applications in telecommunications systems, LiDAR for autonomous vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2024

A new, low-cost, high-efficiency photonic integrated circuit

A new, low-cost, high-efficiency photonic integrated circuit has been developed using lithium tantalate technology. The breakthrough platform offers scalable and cost-effective manufacturing of advanced electro-optical PICs, paving the way for volume manufacturing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024
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.

Unveiling a polarized world – in a single shot

Scientists at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a compact, single-shot polarization imaging system that can provide a complete picture of polarization. The system uses two thin metasurfaces to capture the most complete polarization response of an object in real-time.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 2, 2024

Will the convergence of light and matter in Janus particles transcend performance limitations in the optical display industry?

Researchers pioneer technique to control polaritons, unlocking potential for next-generation materials and surpassing performance limitations of optical displays. The breakthrough enables stable generation of polariton particles with enhanced brightness and color control.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 8, 2024

Pixelated non-volatile programmable photonic integrated circuits

The researchers achieved 20-level intermediate states of phase change materials using a micron-scale laser writing system. This allows for the demonstration of ultra-high flexibility in phase modulation and potential applications in neuromorphic photonics, optical computing, and reconfigurable metasurfaces.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMar 21, 2024

Continuous non-invasive glucose sensing on the horizon with the development of a new optical sensor.

Researchers have developed a miniaturized optical sensor that can detect glucose levels in human blood plasma with comparable sensitivity to laboratory-based sensors. The device operates wirelessly using a coin battery and has demonstrated its viability in detecting glucose levels between 50-400mg/dL.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Sensor Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2024

Organic electronics lead to new ways to sense light

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a soft, flexible, and wireless optical sensor based on carbon nanotubes and organic transistors formed on ultra-thin polymer film. The sensor has high sensitivity over a wide range of wavelengths and can work even after being crumpled into a ball.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 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.

Blue PHOLEDs: Final color of efficient OLEDs finally viable in lighting

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed blue phosphorescent OLEDs (PHOLEDs) that can maintain 90% of their blue light intensity for 10-14 times longer than other designs, making them potentially commercially viable. This breakthrough could enable the widespread use of blue PHOLEDs in OLED displays and lighting.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Conjoined "racetracks" make new optical device possible

Researchers have developed a new optical device that overcomes dispersion limitations in ultra-low-loss silicon nitride by creating conjoined microcombs. This breakthrough enables the production of short-pulse microcombs with low power consumption, paving the way for integration into handheld devices and photonic circuit arrays.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 8, 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.

Photonics team develops high-performance ultrafast lasers that fit on a fingertip

Researchers have developed high-performance ultrafast lasers on nanophotonic chips, enabling compact devices for GPS-free precision navigation, medical imaging, food safety inspection and other applications. The new technology has the potential to enable futuristic chip-scale atomic clocks, biological imaging and more.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

‘Hot’ new form of microscopy examines materials using evanescent waves

Researchers have developed a new form of microscopy that can probe details in an object's surface using evanescent waves. The technique, which detects radiation emitted by the object itself, has been used to examine thermally excited evanescent waves in dielectric materials with nanoscale precision.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2023

Bartering light for light: Scientists discover new system to control the chaotic behavior of light

Researchers at CUNY Graduate Center design stadium-shaped cavity to study and control light's complex behavior. By adjusting light intensity and delay, they demonstrate coherent control using reflectionless scattering modes, paving the way for better energy storage, computing, and signal processing.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023

Chemists, engineers craft adjustable arrays of microscopic lenses

Scientists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a system that can adjust the size, shape, and refractive index of microscopic lenses in real-time. The design uses hydrogels and polydimethylsiloxane to create a dynamic platform for soft robotics and liquid optics applications.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 23, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Discovery may lead to terahertz technology for quantum sensing

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a metal oxide that can enable terahertz technology for quantum sensing. The material, strontium titanate, exhibits unique properties that allow it to interact strongly with terahertz light, forming new particles called phonon-polaritons.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023