Researchers developed a low-cost, customizable VR system to study animal behavior using freely moving small animals. The system, called PiVR, enables the delivery of virtual realities in real-time, allowing scientists to examine causal relationships between neural activity and specific behaviors.
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A virtual reality simulator will be developed to improve hiatal hernia surgery training, reducing surgical errors and improving outcomes. The study aims to utilize the simulator to hone skills in a standardized environment.
GingerVR, an open-source Unity tool kit, tackles cybersickness in VR and AR environments. Researchers found that the software implements eight reduction techniques to address individual differences in user symptoms.
A team at the University of Bath has developed Touche, a data-driven computer model that generates responsive animations against attacks and eliminates non-reactive behavior from characters. This framework simplifies the necessary technical work to achieve a convincing simulation, resulting in more realistic results for game developers.
Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology are developing a virtual reality-based rehabilitation strategy for stroke patients with cortically induced blindness. The approach utilizes eye-tracking technology and multisensory exercises to help patients regain lost portions of their visual field.
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Researchers found that people are often unaware of color removal from their visual periphery in virtual reality, suggesting limitations to human color awareness. The studies used 178 participants and revealed that peripheral color detection is less accurate than previously believed.
Flying insects integrate visual, olfactory, and aerodynamic cues to locate objects in 3D space. Research using virtual reality revealed that Dipteran species use depth cues, wind tunnel-like airflow fields, and odor information to navigate.
Biomedical engineers at Duke University developed a massive fluid dynamics simulator to model blood flow through the full human arterial system, providing guidance for treatment plans. A new graphical user interface called Harvis allows clinicians to easily explore options without expertise in computer science.
UCF professor Maria Harrington receives a grant from Epic Games to develop cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. The project aims to create photorealistic models of botanical gardens and university arboretums, providing users with detailed information about plants and ecosystems.
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Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Anesthesiologists in Israel used 3D printing and virtual reality to create a personalized airway plan for a 7-year-old girl undergoing lung surgery. The plan reduced trial and error during the operation, allowing for a successful outcome.
A new device developed at Carnegie Mellon University uses multiple strings attached to the hand and fingers to simulate the feel of obstacles and heavy objects in virtual reality. The device provides more realistic haptic feedback than other techniques, enabling users to feel the contours of virtual objects and sense resistance.
Researchers warn of the risks of virtual and augmented reality becoming increasingly realistic, leading to difficulties in distinguishing between reality and virtual experiences. This can result in problems such as remembering virtual events as real and failing to distinguish between actual and simulated events. The study also highligh...
New research uses virtual reality to increase identification with others by activating brain networks, aiding in treatment of violent offenders. The technology also helps improve understanding and relationships by simulating multi-sensory feedback.
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.
A new Cornell University study found that students with more video game experience learned better using VR than those with little experience, with males showing greater advantage. The study suggests that either prior video game experience or gender may impact the success of VR-based learning.
Researchers found that people's prior beliefs about themselves may prevent accurate judgment of real appearance. By viewing their body from a third-person perspective, individuals rated it more attractively, pointing to potential applications for treating body perception disorders.
Researchers are exploring enzymes' essential features to convert abundant raw materials into usable fuel. PNNL scientists designed an artificial enzyme that converts carbon dioxide to formate, a potential kind of fuel.
A study found that emotionally evocative storylines can reduce virtual reality cybersickness, especially in non-gamers, by enhancing presence and decreasing sensory conflicts. The findings suggest that game design can be used to create more inclusive VR experiences.
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 study in Frontiers in Neuroscience used virtual reality to determine how people plan their movements by
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology discovered that active virtual reality (VR) experiences hinder visual memory more than passive ones. This finding challenges the potential use of VR as an educational tool, highlighting the need for teaching materials that account for its characteristics.
A recent OSU study assesses virtual reality movements' effects on muscle strain and discomfort, focusing on neck and shoulder movements. The study recommends placing objects closer to the body and at eye level to minimize user discomfort.
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 used a combination of VR, aerial thermal-imaging, and ground surveys to develop a statistical model for predicting koala locations. The three-pronged approach proved 75% more accurate than ground surveys alone, providing critical information for koala protection.
Researchers used virtual reality to study how opioid-associated memories are made and found special neural mechanisms engaged by drug use. The findings suggest that these memories could be targeted for disruption to break the cycle of craving and relapse.
A new study suggests that immersive virtual reality can increase the acceptance of flu vaccinations among adults aged 18-49. The research found that participants who experienced a five-minute virtual reality simulation showed increased concern about transmitting flu to others and were more confident in the effectiveness of vaccination.
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.
Scientists from Skoltech ADASE lab have developed a method to enhance depth map resolution, enabling more realistic virtual reality and computer graphics. The new approach leverages human perception to assess reconstruction quality, outperforming existing methods in visual quality.
A virtual reality clinic created by researchers at North Carolina State University makes it easier for stroke survivors to attend physical and occupational therapy sessions. The system, called VERGE, encourages participants to work on therapy exercises with loved ones remotely, leading to increased attendance and engagement.
A McMaster University study found that virtual and mixed reality inferior to traditional physical models for anatomy learning. The research showed a 70% increase in accuracy with traditional physical models compared to digital media.
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Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Researchers found that fruit flies can build and update mental maps of their surroundings by linking visual features to compass neurons, allowing them to adapt to changing environments. This flexible mapping ability has implications for how other animals navigate in the wild and may even influence human navigation.
A randomized trial at a music festival in the Netherlands found that virtual reality (VR) training was comparable to traditional hands-on training for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. The study, which enrolled 381 participants, showed improved results for speed and depth of compressions in both groups.
A small study published in Pain Reports found that immersive VR scenes of Arctic exploration can reduce perceived ongoing pain and sensitivity to painful stimuli. The researchers believe that VR may trigger the body's own pain-fighting systems, leading to a decrease in chronic pain symptoms.
A new study found that a virtual reality platform can facilitate interprofessional education in palliative care, improving student attitudes towards other healthcare professionals. Students reported increased empathy and interest in continuing IPE training after the experience.
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.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg are developing a new therapy approach using virtual reality avatars to combat obesity. The avatars aim to provide a realistic body image, promoting acceptance and self-reflection in patients struggling with the condition.
A study published in Neuron found that brain areas and patterns of interaction are similar regardless of navigation method, suggesting that sufficient information can be obtained from visual cues alone. The research suggests that even basic virtual reality systems may be useful in instructional applications.
Researchers found that viewing memories in the third person reduces vividness and emotion, while recalling experiences in the first person strengthens memory. Virtual reality technology is being used to explore how perspective influences memory formation.
A randomized trial of 120 hospital patients found that virtual reality (VR) sessions significantly reduced severe pain scores compared to a relaxation program on TV. Patients who used VR reported higher satisfaction with the experience and no difference in opioid prescribing.
A new study from McGill University uses machine learning-guided virtual reality simulators to accurately assess the capabilities of neurosurgeons. The researchers found that these AI-powered tools can predict the level of expertise with 90% accuracy, enabling more efficient and effective mentorship.
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.
A study found that talking to oneself as if they were Dr. Sigmund Freud in virtual reality improved people's mood and helped them find solutions to their problems, with over 80% of participants reporting a change compared to 50% in the control group.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg are developing a social-VR platform called ViLeArn to explore the potential of virtual reality in education. The platform allows students to engage in fully equipped virtual teaching environments, fostering collaboration and creativity.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a method combining expansion microscopy with virtual reality to visualize and analyze cell structures. This innovation allows for better understanding of infectious and autoimmune diseases, enabling the development of disease diagnostics and prevention methods.
A new study finds that virtual reality hypnosis distraction (VRHD) can reduce anxiety and procedure-related pain during locoregional anaesthesia for orthopaedic procedures. The randomised trial shows a significant reduction in the need for intravenous sedation, with 25% of patients requiring no further sedation.
Scientists from the University of Bristol and ETH Zurich have developed an interactive VR software framework that enables humans to train machine-learning algorithms using 'on-the-fly' quantum mechanics calculations. This allows for high-quality training data generation, improving machine learning models and accelerating scientific dis...
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Researchers developed an automated process to detect user-friendliness issues in virtual environments. This technology allows for more frequent, cost-effective, and efficient testing of virtual reality applications, leading to improved user experience and reduced errors.
A new VR game, Butterfly World, aims to engage players in simulated exploration and education about relationships between butterflies, plants, and invasive species. The game fosters empathy for insect and ecosystem conservation, cultivating knowledge and reawakening latent curiosity.
Researchers developed a virtual reality training system to aid people with Parkinson's disease in improving their balance and avoiding obstacles. The six-week program showed significant improvements in obstacle negotiation, balance, and range of motion.
The UTA Research Institute and Neuro Rehab VR are developing a robotic glove that will aid in rehabilitating stroke patients through virtual reality gaming. The device aims to provide fine motor training and increase patient compliance, saving money on rehabilitation. Clinical testing is expected to begin after development.
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.
Researchers from the University of Waterloo found that virtual reality can help individuals with autism and other neurological disorders recalibrate their internal clock. The study used a VR game to encourage participants to adjust their time perception, resulting in significant reductions in estimates of time by around 15 percent.
Researchers use virtual reality to guide catheters through blood vessels with electromagnetic sensors, reducing radiation exposure and increasing precision. The technology has the potential to increase access to interventional radiology treatments in rural areas.
Researchers from Bilkent University develop a technique to eliminate cross-talk in 3D holographic projection, enabling the creation of realistic and dynamic holograms. The method uses wavefront engineering and orthogonality properties to achieve high-quality projections with increasing hologram resolution.
A new study by Lund University found that virtual reality can help individuals with long-term dizziness shift their reliance from vision to other senses for better balance. The study showed differences in how men and women are affected by VR, with more women needing additional practice to master this skill.
Researchers found that feeling awe leads to a greater awareness of knowledge gaps and increased interest in science. In studies involving virtual reality videos, participants who experienced awe were more likely to seek out scientific information and visit science museums.
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A new pilot study found that autistic adults showed real-life improvement after a virtual reality treatment combining graded exposure to fear and anxiety-producing experiences. The approach, which included cognitive behavioral therapy, aimed to minimize anxiety and promote functional improvement in individuals with autism.
Researchers developed a ball-shaped VR display that supports up to two users, creating a distortion-free 3D image from any angle. This allows for collaborative tasks and multiplayer games while maintaining social interaction.
Researchers found that VR stimuli trigger contagious yawning at similar rates to real-life, but social presence has little effect in virtual reality. In contrast, actual human presence significantly reduces yawning in both settings.
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 at UTSA create Cyberwell, an algorithm that reduces negative side effects of virtual reality on users. The algorithm predicts and personalizes cybersickness reduction through deep learning models.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a virtual reality technique called Force Push, enabling users to manipulate objects with subtle hand gestures. The interface responds to the speed and magnitude of hand movements, providing a more physical and intuitive experience than traditional hand controllers.
Researchers found that virtual reality experiences increased scores on questions about ocean acidification causes and mechanisms by almost 150 percent. Immersive simulations also sparked a lasting sense of connectedness, as users felt a connection with their bodies during the experience.
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.
Scientists at Radboud University and Goethe University created a 360-degree virtual reality simulation of Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy. The simulation provides an immersive experience, allowing researchers to study black holes in unprecedented detail.
A new study found 'timing cells' in the brain that turn on when an animal waits, allowing it to measure a time interval. The research could lead to early-detection tests for Alzheimer's disease by asking people to judge how much time has elapsed.
A new study finds that motion sickness and cybersickness share similar symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The researchers suggest that virtual reality technology could be used to diagnose and prevent motion sickness in high-risk professions.
A Stanford-developed VR experience, Becoming Homeless, helped expand research on how immersive technology affects people's level of empathy. The study found that participants who underwent the VR experience developed longer-lasting compassion toward the homeless compared to those who explored other media versions.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that virtual reality systems can aid perspective-taking and foster empathy, leading to more altruistic behaviors. Participants who used VR reported higher levels of empathy and were more likely to sign petitions supporting homeless populations.
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.