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$1.1 million DARPA grant funds research on vibratory sensors for electronics

Researchers at UCF developed a new technology to improve the performance of vibratory sensors, which convert vibrations into electronic signals. The SHIELD project aims to create more reliable sensors that can withstand harsh environments, enabling applications such as navigation systems and aerospace systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida College of Engineering and Computer Science·DateJul 9, 2026
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.

It takes two combs to tango

Dual-comb spectroscopy enables precise, rapid, and broadband measurements using two optical frequency combs with slightly different repetition frequencies. This technique has been implemented across the electromagnetic spectrum, from terahertz to visible range, with ongoing efforts towards ultraviolet range.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Reviews Methods Primers·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2026

Tiny sensors with the power to detect cancer

Researchers have developed tiny sensors capable of detecting multiple biomarkers simultaneously, including temperature and chemical changes. These sensors have the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnosis and monitoring by providing reliable and clear information about disease presence in a minimally invasive way.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2026

New sensor to detect scopolamine

A new sensor developed by the Universitat Politècnica de València can quickly detect scopolamine, a substance commonly used in chemical submission crimes, with high sensitivity. The sensor uses a molecular cage to trap specific molecules and generates a fluorescent signal proportional to the amount of scopolamine present.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 8, 2026
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.

Permeable inspection of pharmaceuticals goes in-line

A research group at Chuo University has developed a non-destructive in-line dynamic photo-monitoring system for pharmaceutical agent pills using carbon nanotube (CNT) photo-thermoelectric imagers. This system facilitates multi-wavelength photo-monitoring and identifies constituent materials and concealed foreign substances in a non-con...

SourceChuo University·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2025

Realizing on-site carbon nanotube photo-thermoelectric imaging

Researchers at Chuo University have developed chemically enriched photo-thermoelectric (PTE) imagers using semiconducting carbon nanotube (CNT) films, achieving enhanced response intensity and noise reduction. This enables efficient remote and on-site inspections with palm-sized wireless circuits.

SourceChuo University·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2025

Robotic eyes mimic human vision for superfast response to extreme lighting

Researchers created a machine vision sensor that adapts to extreme changes in light faster than the human eye, using quantum dots to mimic key behaviors. The device can respond dynamically to bright and dim lighting, outperforming existing systems by reducing redundant data and computational burden.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 1, 2025

Multiresonant fiber acoustic sensors with stabilized triple-phase demodulation for large dynamic ranges

Researchers develop multiresonant fiber acoustic sensor with stabilized triple-phase demodulation, achieving flat low noise floor and high sensitivity across a wide acoustic spectrum. The sensor detects weak sounds and exhibits outstanding performance in ecosystem monitoring, speech recognition, and high-intensity shock detection.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2025

Artificial intelligence in miniature format for small devices

Researchers at TU Graz developed methods to run AI models locally on small devices with limited memory, enabling efficient positioning error correction and industrial applications. The E-MINDS project introduced a modular system using division, orchestration, subspace configurable networks, quantisation, and pruning techniques.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateJun 26, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tiny chip, big breakthrough in spectral sensing for everyday devices

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a microscopic spectral sensor that can identify materials with unprecedented accuracy. The device achieves an extraordinary peak wavelength identification accuracy of ~0.2 nanometers, enabling it to distinguish thousands of colours.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 23, 2025

Brighter nights and darker days could lead to an early grave

A study of over 13 million hours of data found that exposure to bright nights and dark days is associated with an increased risk of death. Those exposed to high levels of light at night had a 21–34% increased risk, while those exposed to high levels of daylight had a 17–34% reduction in their risk of death.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2024

Fight the late-night bright light

A Flinders University study found that exposure to brighter light at night is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research used data from approximately 85,000 people and tracked their light levels for nine years.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2024

New metasurface-based edge detecting filter for remote sensing transforms crop monitoring

A new, tuneable edge-detecting filter for flat-optic imaging systems can switch between an image of an object's outline and a detailed infrared image, enabling precise crop management and habitat restoration. The filter is compact, lightweight, and can be mass-manufactured.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024
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.

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

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

Stretchy color-changing display points to future of wearable screens

Researchers at the University of British Columbia developed a stretchable, transparent display that can change color in real-time, opening doors for potential uses in wearable devices and disposable applications. The device's low power consumption and cost-effectiveness make it attractive for integration into everyday devices.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

The Good Fight: Advance in flexible photodetector could improve monitoring of greenhouse gases

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Smart in-memory light sensors perform image recognition

Researchers at KAUST developed smart digital image sensors that can recognize images with high accuracy, using a charge-trapping 'in-memory' sensor sensitive to visible light. The devices have an extremely long-lived retention time of up to 10 years and can perform optical sensing, storage, and computation.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 6, 2023

This ‘Harry Potter’ light sensor achieves magically high efficiency of 200 per cent

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a photodiode with sensitivity exceeding 200%, using green light and a double-layered cell design. This breakthrough enables the device to detect weak light signals, making it ideal for medical purposes, wearable monitoring, and machine vision applications.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2023

VIMS research helps clarify role of water clarity in coastal management

Research by Dr. Jessie Turner and colleagues highlights the impact of water-clarity metrics on seagrass and light-loving organism restoration goals. The study suggests that different measurement methods can misrepresent underwater light climates, emphasizing the need for clear communication of methods used.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Solving the puzzle of 2D disorder

An interdisciplinary team of Northwestern University researchers has developed a new method to determine the fingerprint of neighboring disorder in 2D materials. This method enables a universal curve that characterizes disorder potentials, leading to improved performance in transistors and gas sensors.

SourceNorthwestern University·Journal2D Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2022

Capturing light: New ergonomic photodetector for the trillion-sensor era

Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a compact and robust optical sensor that can convert light to digital signals, suitable for flexible electronics. The new design architecture enables superior chip area efficiency and large-area scalability.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2021
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.

Optogenetics: Light regulates an enzyme

Researchers have developed a novel light sensor from two algae's rhodopsins that can produce the signaling molecule cGMP in response to UV or violet light, and inhibit its production with blue or green light. This breakthrough advances optogenetics by providing new tools for studying nerve cell function and other physiological processes.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalBMC Biology·DateMar 29, 2021

HKUST scientists develop world's first spherical artificial eye with 3D retina

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has developed a groundbreaking 3D artificial eye with capabilities surpassing human eyes, offering sharper vision and infrared detection. The innovative design features a nanowire light sensor array that eliminates blind spots and potentially enhances image resolution.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 10, 2020

Having an eye for colors: Printable light sensors

The KIT team developed printable organic photodiodes that can detect varying wavelengths, enabling color selection and filterless multichannel visible light communication. These sensors are suitable for mobile devices and have the potential to be used in various applications, including the internet of things and Industry 4.0.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 24, 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.

The algae's third eye

Researchers have discovered a new light sensor in green algae that inhibits cGMP production, reducing its concentration. This finding is significant as it mirrors the human eye's response to light, and could lead to breakthroughs in optogenetics.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalBMC Biology·DateJan 11, 2019

Guiding light

Researchers found that Rh7 functions as a light sensor governing daily day-and-night activity cycles in fruit flies. The discovery expands the roles of light sensors, which were originally discovered over 100 years ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateMay 10, 2017

Scientists watch bacterial sensor respond to light in real time

Researchers used the world's most powerful X-ray laser to take snapshots of an ultrafast structural transition in a protein, capturing atomic motions as fast as 100 quadrillionths of a second. The technique could benefit studies of light-driven atomic motions and reveal how visual pigments respond to light.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2016

We have ignition!

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered that single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCN) emit a loud pop and then ignite when exposed to a conventional photographic flash. This phenomenon, known as the photo-acoustic effect, has been observed for decades but not previously associated with carbon nanotubes.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 25, 2002
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.