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Optical rule was made to be broken

Engineers at Rice University have discovered a way to manipulate light at the nanoscale that surpasses the traditional Moss rule for optical materials. The researchers found that iron pyrite has a high refractive index, making it suitable for applications such as virtual reality and 3D displays.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New on-chip frequency comb is 100x more efficient

A team from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences has developed an electro-optic frequency comb that is 100-times more efficient and has more than twice the bandwidth of previous state-of-the-art versions.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 7, 2022

Customized vortex beam creates golden opportunities for nanoimaging and communications

Researchers have developed a method to generate and control mid-infrared hyperbolic polariton vortices at the nanoscale, enabling new opportunities for super-resolution sensing, imaging, and communication systems. The study uses hexagonal boron nitride as a host material and achieves broad reconfigurability of topological charges.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJul 18, 2022

Atomically-smooth gold crystals help to compress light for nanophotonic applications

Researchers demonstrate a new platform for guiding compressed mid-infrared light waves in ultra-thin van der Waals crystals, enabling strong light-matter interactions and improved detection limits. The use of atomically-smooth gold crystals provides a low-loss environment for the propagation of phonon-polaritons.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 13, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seeing photovoltaic devices in a new light

A team of researchers at Osaka University measured the photovoltaic properties of antimony sulfiodide:sulfide devices and discovered a novel effect. They found that changing the color of incident light from visible to ultraviolet induced a reversible change in output voltage, while leaving current unchanged.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2022

Nanostructured surfaces for future quantum computer chips

Scientists have created a new technology that can manipulate light in non-reciprocal ways, allowing for more advanced applications in quantum computing. The innovation uses nanostructured surfaces to convert infrared light into visible light, enabling the creation of specific photon conditions.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 22, 2022

Diamond mirrors for high-powered lasers

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a single-material diamond mirror that withstood a 10-kilowatt Navy laser without damage. The mirror's unique nanostructure design makes it 98.9% reflective, potentially enabling more robust high-power lasers for various applications.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 2022

First integrated laser on lithium niobate chip

Harvard researchers have successfully integrated a high-power laser onto a lithium niobate chip, a major breakthrough in the development of high-performance chip-scale optical systems. The integration enables the creation of fully integrated spectrometers, optical remote sensing, and efficient frequency conversion for quantum networks.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateApr 8, 2022

Ring my string: Building silicon nano-strings

Scientists at EPFL have created strained crystalline nanomechanical resonators with ultralow dissipation, enabling the creation of high-purity quantum states. These nanostrings could be used as precision force-sensors, taking advantage of interactions such as radiation pressure and magnetic fields.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 28, 2022
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.

More sensitive X-ray imaging

Researchers at MIT have improved the efficiency of scintillators by up to tenfold and potentially even a hundredfold by creating nanoscale configurations. This could lead to better medical diagnostic X-rays, reduced dose exposure, and improved image quality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 24, 2022

Light speed advances

Prof. Tingyi Gu from the University of Delaware has received a $500,000 DARPA Young Faculty Award to improve the power efficiency of digital communications. Her research focuses on manipulating light direction to create more energy-efficient photonic systems.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateDec 3, 2021

Colour-changing magnifying glass gives clear view of infrared light

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new concept for detecting infrared light by converting it into visible light, easily detectable by modern cameras. This innovation enables the detection of mid-infrared light using molecular frequency upconversion with dual-wavelength hybrid nanoantennas.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

A pair of gold flakes creates a self-assembled resonator

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology discovered a way to create a stable resonator using two parallel gold flakes in a salty aqueous solution. The structure can be manipulated and used as a chamber for investigating materials and their behavior, with potential applications in physics, biosensors, and nanorobotics.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Shifting colors for on-chip photonics

On-chip frequency shifters in the gigahertz range enable precise color shifting for high-speed optical communication. This innovation has significant implications for the development of quantum computers and future network infrastructure.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateNov 24, 2021

Experimental demonstration of negative refraction at visible frequency

Researchers at POSTECH demonstrate experimental demonstration of negative refraction at visible frequency for the first time, achieving high-resolution images beyond diffraction limit. The study uses a vertical hyperbolic metamaterial to exhibit negative refraction in entire visible domain, overcoming limitations of conventional materi...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNanophotonics·DateNov 15, 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.

Holey metalens!

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a metasurface using ultra-deep holes to focus light to a single spot, achieving a record-breaking aspect ratio of nearly 30:1. This breakthrough enables the creation of large achromatic metalenses with diverse color control capabilities.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 13, 2021

The nanophotonics orchestra presents: Twisting to the light of nanoparticles

Physicists at the University of Bath have found a way to reveal the forbidden colours of light in twisted nanoparticles, opening up new possibilities for emerging nanotechnologies. This discovery has implications for communications, nanorobotics and ultra-thin optical components.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Generating entangled photons with nonlinear metasurfaces

A new approach to generating quantum-entangled photon pairs uses nonlinear metasurfaces to enhance and tailor photon emissions. The researchers achieved a five-order-of-magnitude increase in the brightness of entangled photons, with a highly configurable platform that can control entanglement and direction.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

Researchers develop novel analog processor for high performance computing

Researchers at George Washington University have created a nanophotonic analog processor capable of solving partial differential equations. The processor can process arbitrary inputs at the speed of light and is integrated at chip-scale.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 27, 2021
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.

Biophotonic probes for bio-detection and imaging

Biophotonic probes utilize biological entities for sensitive detection of biological signals and precise imaging of cellular structures. Optical waveguides play a crucial role in transporting light into deep tissues, while biolenses enable noninvasive screening tools for blood-related disorders.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 25, 2021

Metasurfaces control polarized light at will

Researchers at Harvard SEAS have demonstrated a new way to control polarized light using metasurfaces, enabling holographic images with an unlimited number of polarization states and manipulation in virtually infinite directions. This advancement could lead to applications in imaging, microscopes, displays, and astronomy.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 13, 2021

Exploring the limits of light–matter coupling at the nanoscale

Researchers have explored the limits of light-matter coupling at the nanoscale, discovering a fundamental physical limit to subwavelength confinement. The study reveals that as light is concentrated into smaller volumes, its interaction with matter changes in ways that cannot be predicted by classical theories.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

A LiDAR device the size of a finger available

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) have developed a revolutionary LiDAR device the size of a finger using nanophotonics-based technology. The device can be used in autonomous vehicles, intelligent robots, drones, and augmented reality platforms.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 16, 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.

Controlling fully integrated nanodiamonds

Researchers integrate nanodiamonds into nanophotonic circuits, controlling individual photons and spin states, enabling high-sensitivity magnetic field sensors and new applications in quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNano Letters·DateNov 23, 2020

£5.5M grant will create production line nanoscale error sensors

Scientists at the University of Huddersfield and the Zepler Institute will create ultra-accurate nanoscale sensors, enabling automated production lines to detect and correct errors in situ. This project aims to accelerate Industry 4.0 development by delivering greater efficiency and cost savings.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJul 27, 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.

Valley-Hall nanoscale lasers

Researchers created nanophotonic cavities in a nanopatterned InGaAsP membrane, exhibiting photonic analogue of valley-Hall effect. The structure supports quantized spectrum of modes confined to the domain wall, enabling topologically controlled ultrathin light sources.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 2020

Using light to speed up computation

Researchers have developed a new type of processor called PAXEL, which uses light to speed up computation and increase efficiency. This approach has potential applications in areas such as fog computing, medical testing, and biodefense.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateSep 24, 2019

Spinning lightwaves on a one-way street

Researchers at Purdue University have successfully created a quantum spin wave for light that only flows in one direction. This breakthrough has significant implications for future nanotechnologies, enabling information to be transmitted securely and efficiently.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·DateAug 19, 2019
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.

UTA working to develop longwave infrared photonic device technology

A UTA research team is working with the Army Research Laboratory to develop nanophotonic devices that can capture and release light in the longwave infrared spectral region. These devices have potential applications in thermal imaging, medical diagnostics, chemical analyses, and environmental monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 21, 2019

Ultra ultrasound to transform new tech

Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed an ultra-sensitive ultrasound sensor on a silicon chip, revolutionizing medical devices and unmanned vehicle navigation. The technology can detect miniscule forces from surrounding air molecules, opening doors to new biomedical imaging and biological system understanding.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 2019

New technology to allow 100-times-faster internet

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a new nanophotonic device that can encode and process data using twisted light beams, increasing bandwidth by up to 100 times. This technology has the potential to revolutionize optical communications and quantum computing research.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 24, 2018
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.

Nano-optic endoscope sees deep into tissue at high resolution

Researchers have developed a new class of endoscopic imaging catheters that overcome the limitations of current systems, achieving higher resolution and functionality. The nano-optic endoscope incorporates metalenses into its design, enabling high-resolution imaging at extended depth of focus without complex optical components.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 30, 2018

NRL improves optical efficiency in nanophotonic devices

Researchers at NRL have developed a method to reduce optical losses in hexagonal boron nitride devices, enabling more efficient lasers and nanoscale optics. This breakthrough has significant applications for ultra-high resolution microscopes, solar energy harvesting, optical computing, and targeted medical therapies.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 4, 2018

Equipment grant will allow UTA researchers to safely send, receive high-speed data

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a $498,981 equipment grant to upgrade its ability to send and receive encrypted high-speed data securely through optical cables. This technology will enable researchers to perform high-speed coherent communications and signal processing experiments with both optical and electronic signals.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 25, 2017
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.

Learning with light: New system allows optical 'deep learning'

A team of MIT researchers has developed a new approach to deep learning computations using light instead of electricity, potentially improving speed and efficiency for certain applications. The new programmable nanophotonic processor uses multiple light beams to carry out complex calculations with zero energy and near-instant results.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 12, 2017
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.

New nanodevice shifts light's color at single-photon level

Scientists at NIST have developed a miniaturized device to convert photons between frequencies, addressing two critical problems in quantum communication. The new device consumes low power and produces minimal noise, making it suitable for future experiments with single-photon sources.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 18, 2016

From IT to black holes: Nano-control of light pioneers new paths

Researchers at RMIT University have created a breakthrough chip that enables unparalleled control over the angular momentum of light, paving the way for next-generation optical technologies. The discovery could lead to new applications in ultra-high definition display, optical communication, and ultra-secure encryption.

SourceRMIT University·JournalScience·DateApr 7, 2016

MIPT-based researcher predicts new state of matter

Researchers have predicted the existence of fermionic matter in a novel one-dimensional liquid state, which cannot be described within existing models. This new state is similar to both fermionic liquids and Tomonaga-Luttinger liquids but has distinct properties that set it apart.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 17, 2014
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.

Trapping light: A long lifetime in a very small place

Physicists at the University of Rochester have created a silicon nanocavity that allows light to be trapped for nanoseconds. The innovative design approach mimics evolutionary biology and achieves a 10-fold improvement on previous performances.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 16, 2014

Stevens researchers pioneer novel technique to make plasmonic nanogap arrays

The Stevens team uses holographic lithography to create uniform arrays of metallic nanostructures, enabling the production of high-quality, large-scale plasmonic nanogap arrays. This breakthrough technique reduces costs and infrastructure, paving the way for applications in miniaturized photonic circuits and ultrasensitive sensing.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 6, 2011

Halas wins high-profile national security award

Naomi Halas, a renowned nano-optics expert, has been awarded a $3 million grant by the Department of Defense for her research on engineered nanophotonics. This breakthrough work could lead to innovations in super-efficient solar power collectors and next-generation camouflage.

SourceRice University·DateNov 25, 2008
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Halas wins prestigious nanotechnology research award

Naomi Halas, a leading researcher in nanophotonics, has been honored with the Research Excellence Award for her innovative work on nanoparticle synthesis and its applications in biotechnology. Her invention of nanoshells has shown tunable optical properties, making them suitable for various medical applications.

SourceRice University·DateSep 3, 2008

Rice scientists unveil 'nanoegg'

Researchers at Rice University's Laboratory for Nanophotonics have created nanoeggs, asymmetric particles that focus light on small regions of space. These nanoeggs can be tuned to interact with more wavelengths of light than their nanoshell cousins, making them suitable for applications in molecular imaging and medical diagnostics.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2006

Rice study: 'Nanostars' could be ultra-sensitive chemical sensors

Researchers at Rice University have created nanoparticles called nanostars, which exhibit strong spectral signals and can be used to discern the three-dimensional orientation of molecules. This discovery has significant potential for 3D molecular sensing applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 18, 2006

Rice nanophotonics lab gets $3 million training grant

The Rice nanophotonics lab has been awarded a $3 million NSF grant to train graduate students in the emerging field of nano-optics. The program aims to create leaders with technical and professional skills needed for breakthroughs in advanced technologies, including biomedicine, environmental remediation, and homeland security.

SourceRice University·DateJul 12, 2005
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.