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Robots can’t feel; these sensors could change that

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive electronic 'skin' using tiny devices that can measure force applied over an area. This technology has the potential to improve prosthetic limbs and robotic manipulation, allowing robots to accurately track hand movements and grasp delicate objects.

SourcePenn State·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2026
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.

Encapsulation-free thin-film sensors enable accurate sensing at 950 ℃

Researchers developed a novel fabrication method for thin-film temperature sensors that operate across an exceptionally wide temperature range, from –50 °C to 950 °C. The technique eliminates the need for complex protective layers, making it faster and cheaper to produce sensors.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 18, 2025

Keep the cool feeling: A lipid enzyme for maintaining cool temperature sensation and avoidance

Researchers have identified a monoacylglycerol acyltransferase (MGAT)-coding gene named bishu-1 that maintains the expression level of thermal receptors and modulates cool temperature sensation and avoidance behavior. The discovery could promote the development of lipid-mediated treatments for maintaining thermosensation in humans.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2025

High-quality nanodiamonds for bioimaging and quantum sensing applications

Researchers from Okayama University create nanodiamonds with nitrogen-vacancy centers, exhibiting strong fluorescence and stable spin states for biological applications. The developed nanodiamonds have improved spin quality compared to bulk diamonds, making them suitable for bioimaging and quantum sensing.

SourceOkayama University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2024

Sensitive ceramics for soft robotics

Researchers have developed sensitive ceramic sensors that can selectively respond to pressure or temperature, which are integrated into a prosthetic hand and a robotic skin. The goal is to enable safe collaboration between humans and machines, with applications in medicine and industry.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A swarm to save the day

Researchers propose using coordinated multi-swarm drones to quell forest fires, leveraging AI-enabled fire detection and autonomous decision-making. The approach could lead to more efficient fire suppression and reduced response times.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Systems Man and Cybernetics Systems·DateMar 21, 2024

Implantable sensor could lead to timelier Crohn’s treatment

A Northwestern University team developed a wireless, implantable temperature sensor to monitor inflammatory flareups in patients with Crohn's disease. This allows clinicians to act earlier to prevent permanent damage caused by inflammatory episodes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024

Self-powered sensor automatically harvests magnetic energy

Researchers at MIT developed a battery-free sensor that can harvest energy from its environment, allowing for long-term data collection in remote settings. The sensor uses a network of integrated circuits and transistors to store and convert energy efficiently, eliminating the need for batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateJan 18, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

From PIC to probe

A team of researchers at Ghent University and imec developed a silicon photonic temperature sensor that measures up to 180°C. The sensor was realized in the framework of the European SEER project, where partners focus on integrating optical sensors in manufacturing routines for composite parts.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateDec 15, 2023

Sleep Trackers Everywhere: How does one choose?

A study evaluated sleep tracking performance of various wearable devices against a reference system, considering user needs. Non-EEG wearables showed superior performance for healthy individuals who want to monitor sleep habits.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalSleep Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023

An intravenous needle that irreversibly softens via body temperature on insertion​

Researchers developed a new intravenous needle that softens via body temperature on insertion, reducing tissue damage and blood-borne disease risks. The P-CARE needle's variable stiffness characteristics make it flexible upon insertion, allowing for more comfortable injections.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 13, 2023
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.

The research group led by Prof. Seung Hwan Ko, in Dept. of Mechanical Engineering in Seoul National University, developed the paper-based biodegradable and eco-friendly sensor for sensing the food status.

Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a biodegradable and eco-friendly sensor that can detect food temperature and freshness. The sensor, made from laser-induced graphene on commercial paper, enables real-time monitoring of food spoilage and can be used in various industrial fields.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateOct 21, 2022

A soft, stretchable thermometer

Researchers developed a soft, stretchable, self-powered thermometer that can be integrated into stretchable electronics and soft robots, enabling new human-machine interfaces and applications. The sensor has high sensitivity and quick response time, and can measure temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius or as cold as -100 degrees Celsius.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2022
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.

Scientists explore method to produce composites with ‘shape memory’

Researchers investigated glass fiber-reinforced epoxy-based flat laminates with pultrusion, a fast and versatile composite manufacturing process. The study found significant promise for structural applications of these 'shape memory' composites in various industries.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalComposites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

Finally, the brain sensor that turns down the heat

Scientists have identified a specific group of neurons in the mouse hypothalamus that acts as the internal thermostat, regulating core body temperature. These neurons express the ion channel TRPM2 and limit excessive temperature rise in response to infection or trauma.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 25, 2016

The world's tiniest temperature sensor is powered by radio waves

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology developed a tiny wireless temperature sensor that measures just 2 square millimeters and weighs 1.6 milligrams. The sensor operates beneath a layer of paint or concrete, consumes extremely low energy, and can be easily incorporated into buildings.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·DateDec 7, 2015

Measuring the temperature of nanoparticles

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a technique to probe the temperature rise in the vicinity of RF-actuated nanoparticles. The study found that the measured temperature rise was consistent regardless of whether the sensors were mixed with or covalently bonded to the nanoparticles.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateNov 30, 2010
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.

Low-cost temperature sensors, tennis balls to monitor mountain snowpack

Assistant professor Jessica Lundquist uses low-cost temperature sensors and tennis balls to study mountain precipitation and its impact on lower-elevation communities. The system provides accurate temperature readings for up to 11 months in remote locations, helping improve computer models and storm flooding forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 14, 2009