A new system allows remote monitoring of freshwater mussels' behavior, enabling early detection of toxic substances. The sensor system uses inertial measurement units and transmits data wirelessly, with impressive accuracy in laboratory testing.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Sensors Letters·DateMar 23, 2021
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.
MIT researchers develop a deep-learning algorithm to optimize sensor placement on soft robots, allowing them to better interact with their environment and complete assigned tasks. The algorithm learns the most efficient sequence of movements and identifies the most important particles to improve performance.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMar 22, 2021
The SIIOS team successfully tested its technology on Greenland's surface, detecting seismic waves comparable to those from ground-based seismometers. The findings could aid NASA's future missions to Europa and Enceladus, where subsurface liquid oceans are believed to exist.
SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMar 17, 2021
A new project seeks to fill a gap in identifying vulnerabilities in ML frameworks by using Software Composition Analysis and Directed Grammar-Based Fuzzing. The tool can automatically report vulnerabilities in open-source libraries that an application depends on, helping developers address them before they can be exploited.
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.
GraphIt, a state-of-the-art graph programming language, has been extended to run on graphics processing units (GPUs), enabling faster graph analysis. This advance accelerates graph algorithms, particularly those that benefit from parallelism, such as recommendation algorithms and internet search functions.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 22, 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.
Engineers at UC San Diego developed a soft, stretchy skin patch that monitors cardiovascular signals and multiple biochemical levels in the human body. The patch tracks blood pressure, glucose, lactate, alcohol, and caffeine levels, providing a comprehensive overview of the wearer's health.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 15, 2021
Researchers at Linköping University developed implantable biosensors that monitor sugar levels in plants in real-time. This technology has the potential to optimize crop growth and quality, as well as guide the production of new plant varieties that can thrive in challenging conditions.
A new study by archaeologists at the Florida Museum of Natural History found that a handheld color-matching gadget often misread colors readily distinguished by the human eye. The device, known as the X-Rite Capsure, failed to produce correct color scores in 37.5% of cases when tested against a book of color chips.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalAdvances in Archaeological Practice·DateFeb 9, 2021
The Rydberg sensor can analyze the full spectrum of radio frequency signals and detect AM and FM radio, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and other communication signals. It offers unparalleled sensitivity and accuracy to detect a wide range of mission-critical signals, enabling new capabilities for soldier communications and electronic warfare.
SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateFeb 4, 2021
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.
Despite advances in biosensor antifouling approaches, further development is needed to increase our arsenal of robust antifouling protection methods. Researchers have developed various techniques such as physical barriers, chemical treatments and selective membranelike coatings to protect biosensors from fouling.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateFeb 2, 2021
Researchers at PNNL develop new detection method for ultra-trace elements like uranium and thorium, allowing for precise measurement in valuable metals like gold. The technique enables detection limits as low as 10 parts per trillion in gold, revolutionizing the semiconductor industry and sensitive particle detection.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry·DateJan 28, 2021
Researchers aim to create an 'intelligent' pipeline that can detect defects through acoustic and vibrational signatures, enabling targeted in-situ repairs with reduced downtime and costs. The project also plans to develop economic models and regulatory modifications for commercialization.
Researchers from Toyohashi University of Technology developed a semiconductor chip that can detect volatile gases in exhaled breath with high sensitivity at room temperature. The chip uses a polymer material that expands and contracts when gas is absorbed, allowing for precise measurement of gas adsorption.
SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalSensors·DateJan 19, 2021
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.
Researchers from UOC-led research group present new software model verification technique to solve common problems in software development. The method enables easier verification of models during construction, facilitating early detection of errors and reducing costs.
SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalThe Journal of Object Technology·DateJan 15, 2021
Skoltech researchers use chemical sensors and computer vision to monitor grilled chicken doneness, promising automation in kitchen quality control. The system accurately identifies undercooked, well-cooked, and overcooked chicken.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalFood Chemistry·DateJan 13, 2021
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a highly sensitive biohybrid olfactory sensor that can detect odor molecules in the air. The sensor uses insect olfactory receptors reconstituted into lipid bilayers and has been shown to detect concentrations as low as parts per billion.
SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 13, 2021
Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a novel approach to tile functional nanosheets in a single layer using a one-drop method. This process could lead to the development of next-generation oxide electronics, enabling transparent and flexible devices.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A team of researchers has developed a novel approach to measuring magnetic fields using 'damaged' polymer optical fibers. The sensor can detect small magnetic field changes, several hundreds of times smaller than conventional methods, and is suitable for applications in electric power systems.
SourceYokohama National University·JournalAdvanced Photonics Research·DateJan 7, 2021
Researchers developed a breakthrough sensor system and manufacturing process for smart contact lenses, featuring a photodetector, temperature sensor, and glucose sensor. The ultra-thin sensor layer offers high detection sensitivity, good biocompatibility, and mechanical robustness.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalMatter·DateJan 6, 2021
A UBCO research team has developed advanced ice sensors that can detect frost and ice build-up in real-time, enabling improved safety and efficiency in aviation and renewable energy applications. The patented sensor is being tested by the aviation industry for approval and also being adapted for use in wind farms.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 17, 2020
Researchers at MIT have developed a silicon chip with fully integrated LEDs, enabling state-of-the-art sensor and communication technologies. The advance could lead to cheaper manufacturing, improved performance, and increased efficiency in nanoscale electronics.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 14, 2020
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 spin-out company, Cerca, has launched a groundbreaking wearable brain scanner that allows people to move freely while being scanned. The Cerca Scanner uses magnetoencephalography (MEG) technology, adapted from quantum sensors, to capture high-resolution images of brain activity with millimetre accuracy. This innovation promises t...
A new software developed by Johns Hopkins University researchers can accelerate genetic testing and deliver diagnoses outside of labs. The technology reduces sequencing time from 15 days or more to just three days.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 3, 2020
Scientists from SMART DiSTAP have engineered a novel type of plant nanobionic optical sensor that can detect and monitor arsenic levels in the belowground environment. This non-destructive approach enables plants to serve as self-powered detectors of arsenic, marking a significant upgrade over conventional methods.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 2, 2020
Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have proposed a way to obtain arbitrarily sized quantum dots using chemical aging. The process involves introducing oleic acid and oleylamine into the solution, causing the sulfur and lead atoms to retreat back into the solution, gradually reducing dot size.
SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalMaterials Today Chemistry·DateNov 19, 2020
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.
SpeechVive Inc. offers free remote calibration software and training to improve speech volume and clarity in people with Parkinson's disease, bridging the gap for rural patients during COVID-19.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have created self-powered quantum sensors that can run for over a year with just a small initial energy input. The sensors use a fundamental law of physics to generate power, allowing them to measure ambient motion and other phenomena without batteries.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 16, 2020
A 3D-printed weather station was found to be accurate and viable for shorter campaigns, according to researchers. The low-cost sensors measured temperature, pressure, rain, UV, and relative humidity with accuracy comparable to commercial-grade stations.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateNov 10, 2020
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.
Researchers developed phyloFlash to analyze SSU rRNA from raw metagenome data, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The user-friendly software identifies organisms in simple communities with high reliability.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateNov 6, 2020
The new compact VNIR/SWIR imaging spectrometer offers improved spatial and spectral analysis capabilities, enabling applications in atmospheric science, ecology, geology, agriculture, and forestry. The instrument's small size and modular design make it suitable for airborne vehicles and planetary exploration missions.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed drones that can deploy sensor-containing darts onto trees and collect data on forest ecosystems. The drones can also perch on tree branches like birds to collect data themselves, acting as mobile sensors.
SourceImperial College London·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateNov 3, 2020
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.
Researchers from Binghamton University and Intel Corp. developed a tool called FakeCatcher to detect 'deepfakes,' which boast an accuracy rate above 90%. The tool analyzes the subtle differences in skin color caused by the human heartbeat, using photoplethysmography (PPG) signals.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateOct 27, 2020
Purdue University is leading a $3.7 million research project to create more secure machine learning algorithms for autonomous systems. The goal is to develop a robust, distributed and usable software suite to prevent AI hacking and ensure the accuracy of autonomous machines on the battlefield.
Primary care doctors are taking safety measures to protect patients, including appointment-only offices, clear protocols posted online or over the phone, and staggered in-person visits. Patients can also take precautions such as calling labs before scheduling appointments and wearing masks during visits.
SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateOct 20, 2020
A partnership between Sandia National Laboratories and BioBright LLC aims to improve synthetic biology equipment security. The team is developing countermeasures to risks, protecting America's bioeconomy and digital infrastructure from potential data theft or targeted attacks.
Researchers developed a novel technique to produce high-performing biometric sensors by printing them directly on human skin at room temperature. The sensors can capture precise temperature, humidity, blood oxygen levels, and heart performance signals, and are environmentally friendly, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin.
SourcePenn State·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 12, 2020
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 new earphone device called C-Face can track full facial expressions by observing the contour of the cheeks, translating them into emojis or silent speech commands. This technology has potential applications in remote work, virtual reality collaborations, and directing devices using facial cues.
Tropical Storm Chan-hom is consolidating, indicating a strengthening trend, according to NASA's infrared data. The AIRS instrument captured cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms with heavy rain potential.
Researchers at West Virginia University are improving methane monitoring networks to prevent explosions in underground mines. The new system will enable proactive responses to rising trends, increasing safety and reducing production delays.
A new sensor developed by Caltech researchers can rapidly detect COVID-19 infection in under 10 minutes, offering a potential solution for early diagnosis and monitoring. The sensor uses graphene and antibodies to detect specific proteins and chemical markers of inflammation, providing a full picture of the infection.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateOct 1, 2020
Researchers developed a new microwave radiation sensor with 100,000 times higher sensitivity than currently available sensors, enabling improved thermal imaging and detection of electromagnetic signals. The technology has potential applications in quantum sensing, radar, and the search for dark matter.
SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 1, 2020
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.
Researchers at UIC will develop specialized sensors to enable drones to adapt to various fuel types, expanding their range and capabilities. The funding will also support the education of students in combustion, sensing, and optimization.
A multidisciplinary research team led by Columbia University is developing a quantum simulator to tackle real-world challenges. The project, funded by a $1 million NSF Convergence Accelerator award, aims to create a device that can solve problems difficult for classical computers.
Researchers develop prediction models for spinach quality and safety using portable NIRS sensors, offering a fast, accurate, environmentally friendly, affordable and non-destructive solution. This technology has the potential to revolutionize quality control systems in the food industry.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalPostharvest Biology and Technology·DateSep 25, 2020
The Michigan Tech's Open Sustainability Technology (MOST) Lab has developed three new open-source tools in response to COVID-19: a high-temperature 3D printer, a firefighter PAPR mask, and an emergency-use ventilator. These devices can be built using locally sourced materials, reducing costs and increasing accessibility.
SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalHardwareX·DateSep 22, 2020
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.
Researchers developed a comprehensive mathematical framework to optimize sensor placement and selection. The model revealed that not all sensors were needed to accurately estimate key physical states, such as velocity and angle of attack. This approach balances cost and precision, making it a critical solution for complex systems.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new material that can detect toxic gases with high sensitivity. The single-atom thin platinum layer interacts significantly with its chemical environment, making it suitable for ultra-sensitive detection.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateSep 14, 2020
Researchers at Duke University demonstrate prototypes for acoustic tweezers that use sound waves to manipulate bioparticles in Petri dishes. The technology has the potential to bridge the gap between academia and industry, enabling a wider range of laboratories to adopt it.
SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 9, 2020
Researchers developed a rapid COVID-19 molecular test and portable instrument using a simpler process called LAMP, which can detect the virus in 30 minutes. The test uses a small 3D-printed microfluidic cartridge that reacts with chemicals to produce fluorescent light.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020
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.
Researchers developed a human-robot team that can detect physical changes in 3D environments and share information with humans in real-time through augmented reality. The robot's sensors and algorithms enable it to provide contextual awareness to soldiers, helping them stay ahead of potential threats.
A prototype device has been developed to detect COVID-19 in exhaled breath, reducing the need for uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swabs. The sensor shows high accuracy in distinguishing COVID-19 cases from controls and lung infections, with potential applications for screening large populations.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 19, 2020
Four low-cost air quality monitors provided actionable information during wildfire events, with correlations to reference monitors being 'phenomenally good.' However, the devices required adjustments and checks to use their numbers, with an estimated adjustment factor of 0.48 for PurpleAir PA-II monitors.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalSensors·DateAug 18, 2020
The South Atlantic Anomaly, a weak spot in Earth's magnetic field, allows charged particles to dip closer to the surface, posing a threat to satellites. Recent observations show the anomaly is expanding westward and weakening in intensity, creating additional challenges for space missions.
Researchers developed a wearable sensor printed on microbial nanocellulose, enabling noninvasive detection of body fluids present in sweat. The device can detect biomarkers such as sodium, potassium, and glucose, with potential applications for diabetes monitoring and hormone control.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalTalanta·DateAug 17, 2020
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 propose repurposing agtech labs for diagnostic testing in human pandemics. Sophisticated equipment used for crop and animal breeding can be easily adapted for tracing and detection. The approach aims to relieve pressure on limited health sector testing tools and speed up response measures.
SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2020
A team of scientists installed an optical seismometer on La Soufrière de Guadeloupe volcano's summit to monitor gas and steam eruptions. The instrument collects data that will be combined with other observations to better understand the volcano's explosive potential.
SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateAug 5, 2020
The Smart Stirrer, a novel magnetic stirrer, monitors multiple parameters such as color, transparency, conductivity, viscosity, and temperature wirelessly to enable real-time tracking of chemical reactions. This innovative device allows for automation, reproducibility, and safety in laboratory settings.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 3, 2020
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.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a hybrid inverter platform that connects local energy resources to the utility power grid, enabling autonomous, distributed energy systems. The platform can interact with various control systems and support real-time monitoring for better system stability.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham and international partners have developed a technique to miniaturize sensing devices using cold atoms and optical metasurfaces. The resulting devices are significantly smaller, with potential applications in various industries.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 29, 2020