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Building better infrared sensors

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new type of infrared photodiode that is 35% more responsive at 1.55 µm than existing germanium-based components. The new device can be manufactured using current production techniques, making it highly practical for adoption in various technologies.

SourceAalto University·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJan 2, 2025

Bats surf storm fronts during continental migration

Scientists have studied common noctule bats on their spring migration across Europe, using ultra-light sensors connected 'like cell phones' to track their movements. The study reveals that bats surf storm fronts to conserve energy and migrate further, with some individuals covering over 400 kilometers in a single night.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2025

Detecting disease with only a single molecule

Researchers have created a new circuit model that accounts for small changes to the sensor's behavior, allowing it to detect protein or DNA molecules from a sample. The device could lead to earlier diagnosis of diseases and more precise therapies tailored to each patient.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 2, 2025
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.

Wind sensing by biomimetic flexible flapping wing with strain sensors

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo developed a method to detect wind direction using seven strain gauges on a flapping wing and a convolutional neural network model. The system achieved high classification accuracy of 99.5% in detecting wind conditions, opening up new possibilities for improving robotic flight control.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 26, 2024

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

Grapes of math: Quantum breakthrough bears fruit

Researchers demonstrate how grape pairs can create strong localized magnetic field hotspots of microwaves used in quantum sensing applications. The study could help develop more compact and cost-effective quantum devices.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2024

SNU researchers develop the world’s most sensitive flexible strain sensor

A research team at Seoul National University developed a hypersensitive, flexible strain sensor that can detect infinitesimal strains as small as 10−5. The sensor, with meta-structured cracks, enables real-time blood flow monitoring for early stroke diagnosis and cerebrovascular disease detection.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024
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.

Chungnam National University researchers develop power-free color-changing strain sensor

Chungnam National University researchers developed a magnetoplasmonic strain sensor that changes color in response to mechanical stress, offering a reliable and user-friendly solution for real-time health and activity tracking. The device is powered-free, versatile, and ideal for use in remote or extreme environments.

SourceChungnam National University Evaluation Team·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2024

Porous crystals detect nitric oxide

A copper-containing, electrically conducting, two-dimensional metal–organic framework has been developed for the highly selective detection of nitric oxide. The material detects NO at room temperature with high sensitivity and selectivity, making it suitable for air quality monitoring and medical applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Implantable sensors are helping scientists improve injury recovery

Researchers developed miniature implantable sensors that transmit real-time data on bone healing, showing resistance training can significantly improve femur injuries in rats. The sensors provided detailed ongoing data on the mechanical properties of the bone, allowing for tailored rehabilitation programs.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateDec 12, 2024

'Strong’ filters – Innovative technology for better displays and optical sensors

The study creates ultra-stable thin-film polariton filters with exceptional angular stability, transmitting up to 98% of light, even at extreme viewing angles. This technology has enormous scientific and economic potential for applications in display technology, sensor technologies, biophotonics, and more.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Autonomous imaging robot plays a crucial role in assessing embryos’ response to environmental change

The LabEmbryoCam is a robotic instrument that autonomously monitors embryonic development in aquatic species, providing insights into how environmental conditions impact early life stages. The open-source instrument enables scientists to track key features such as heart rate and growth in large numbers of embryos simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalHardwareX·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2024

Shaking sensor continuously monitors inflammation

A new implantable device, inspired by a tree branch, uses DNA sensors to continuously monitor inflammation biomarkers in the body. The device accurately measures protein biomarkers of inflammation in diabetic rats and has potential applications for managing acute and chronic conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2024

Implantable sensors unlock ability to continuously monitor inflammation

Researchers have developed implantable sensors that track protein levels in real time, enabling continuous monitoring of inflammation at the cellular level. The technology has been successfully tested in diabetic rats, detecting changes in cytokine proteins associated with inflammation.

SourceChan Zuckerberg Initiative·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2024
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.

GPS alternative for drone navigation using visual data from stars

Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a celestial navigation system that uses visual data from stars to provide an alternative means of nighttime navigation in environments where GPS is unavailable or unreliable. The system has been tested on a fixed-wing drone and demonstrated accurate positioning within fo...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalDrones·DateDec 4, 2024

Printed e-tattoo ink-credible at reading brainwaves

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin and UCLA have created an e-tattoo that can measure brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG). The new method uses a camera to map the individual head's shape digitally, allowing for more precise sensor placement. This innovation could transform brain-computer interfaces, making th...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell Biomaterials·DateDec 3, 2024

Digital technologies help increase productivity and reduce agricultural impacts

Researchers from Brazil and Spain developed computer models to estimate crop maturity and yield using remote sensing technologies, increasing productivity and reducing CO2 emissions. They also created a system to estimate soil moisture levels with high accuracy, helping growers manage water usage more efficiently.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateNov 29, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New smart agriculture technology for monitoring plants

A team of researchers developed a novel sensor that attaches directly to the underside of plant leaves to measure leaf color without blocking sunlight. The sensor can track changes in the same spot over time and provides fine-tuned readings for real-time monitoring.

SourceTohoku University·JournalSensing and Bio-Sensing Research·DateNov 26, 2024

Managing forests with smart technologies

Researchers in Lithuania have developed Forest 4.0, a smart forest data processing model that enables real-time monitoring of forest conditions, sustainable resource accounting, and transparent governance. The system uses IoT sensors and AI algorithms to detect tree diseases, illegal logging, and predict changes in forest ecosystems.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·DateNov 25, 2024

The future of edge AI: Dye-sensitized solar cell-based synaptic device

A novel physical reservoir computing device uses a dye-sensitized solar cell to mimic human synaptic elements, enabling efficient time-series data processing and low power consumption. The device achieved high computational performance in tasks such as human motion classification with over 90% accuracy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024
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 develop clinically validated, wearable ultrasound patch for continuous blood pressure monitoring

A team of researchers at the University of California San Diego has developed a clinically validated, wearable ultrasound patch for continuous and noninvasive blood pressure monitoring. The device offers precise, real-time readings of blood pressure deep within the body, providing detailed trends in blood pressure fluctuations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 20, 2024

Revolutionizing the world of smell and olfaction: Highlights from the 8th Digital Olfaction Society World Congress 2024

The 8th Digital Olfaction Society World Congress highlights groundbreaking advancements in digital olfaction, from smart necklaces to drones equipped with olfactory sensors. The event showcases innovative applications of scent digitization technologies, including virtual reality systems and e-nose devices for early disease detection.

SourceMitochondria-Microbiota Task Force·DateNov 19, 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

Future AR/VR controllers could be the palm of your hand

Researchers developed a system that uses machine learning to recognize touching on the skin, achieving over 96% accuracy. The EgoTouch tool can detect various types of touch, including force and gesture, and has potential applications for skin-based interfaces and virtual reality.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 13, 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.

Giving robots superhuman vision using radio signals

PanoRadar leverages radio waves and AI to enable robots to navigate challenging environments like smoke-filled buildings or foggy roads with high resolution. The system combines measurements from all rotation angles to enhance imaging resolution, creating a dense array of virtual measurement points.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Robot learns how to clean a washbasin

A TU Wien-developed robot can learn to clean a sink by watching humans perform the task, adapting its knowledge to different shapes and applying the right amount of force. The technology combines machine learning and robotics, enabling robots to share their parameters through federated learning.

SourceVienna University of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Detecting evidence of lung cancer in exhaled breath

Researchers have developed ultrasensitive sensors that can detect isoprene levels in the parts-per-billion range, a decline of which can indicate lung cancer. The sensors, made with indium oxide-based nanoflakes, showed promise in distinguishing lung cancer patients from healthy individuals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 6, 2024

UC San Diego researchers develop low-cost, scalable passive sensors

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed battery-free RFID sensors that enable real-time sensing and tracking of environmental parameters like temperature and humidity. These sensors have the potential to revolutionize various industries such as agriculture, athletics, and occupancy detection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 5, 2024

Oh buoy! Curtin and NASA unlock ocean secrets from space

Researchers have deployed a buoy off the coast of Perth to measure algae levels and improve satellite data accuracy for NASA's PACE mission. The project aims to study the impact of phytoplankton on ocean health and climate regulation, with potential benefits in combating climate change.

SourceCurtin University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 4, 2024
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.

Smart sensor patch detects health symptoms through edge computing

A research team from Hokkaido University has developed a flexible multimodal wearable sensor patch that can detect arrhythmia, coughs, and falls using edge computing on a smartphone. The sensor patch generates large amounts of data that must be processed to be understood.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Enhancing the accuracy of wearables that measure blood glucose levels

Researchers developed a screening technique to filter out low-quality data in wearable sensors, improving the performance of smartwatches for noninvasive blood glucose estimation. The approach enhances accuracy by discarding data with high phase errors and approximating missing values.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateOct 28, 2024
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.

Artificial ‘nose’ can sniff out damaged fruit and spoiled meat

A new artificial 'nose' inspired by the human sense of smell can detect undiagnosed diseases, hazardous gases, and food spoilage using existing antenna technology. The sensor distinguishes between different gases with an accuracy of 96.7%, surpassing previous electronic noses in some areas.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2024

Measuring defects to better understand quantum systems

Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new way to measure the behavior of single electron defects in diamond, which can destroy quantum state memory. By studying the defects' spin and charge dynamics, scientists hope to create even better quantum sensors with long coherence times.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 17, 2024

Pusan National University researchers develop fast-responding colorimetric sensor with expanded color gamut for real-time monitoring

Researchers at Pusan National University developed a fast-responding colorimetric sensor with an expanded color gamut, capable of detecting humidity and other environmental changes in real-time. The sensor outperforms previous designs with a wide color representation and rapid responsiveness.

SourcePusan National University·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024
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.

Continuous monitoring of fatigue in factory workers

Researchers developed a system to continuously monitor factory workers for signs of physical fatigue, using wearable sensors and machine learning. The system uses data from heart rate, skin temperature, and locomotor patterns to predict fatigue levels in real-time, with universal trends identified across individual variations.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 15, 2024

Ultra-sensitive robotic “finger” can take patient pulses, check for lumps

Researchers developed a soft robotic finger that can perform routine doctor office examinations, including taking patient pulses and checking for abnormal lumps. The device's advanced sense of touch allows it to detect stiffness similar to human fingers, enabling early disease detection and more efficient medical exams.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2024
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.

First successful demonstration of a dual-media NV diamond laser system

The researchers combined an NV diamond with a laser diode in an optical resonator, successfully demonstrating the sensor system with two active media. This breakthrough enables high-contrast sensors to measure biomagnetic signals from the brain or heart with improved sensitivity and dynamic range.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 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.

Virginia Tech researchers publish real-time data to understand what happens when people lose their balance

Virginia Tech researchers publish real-time data to better understand what happens when people lose their balance. The study uses wrist-worn voice recorders to capture immediate, self-reported data from participants, providing a more reliable understanding of the circumstances surrounding balance loss among older adults.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 4, 2024

As temperatures rise, researchers identify mechanisms behind plant response to warming

Plant biologists have mapped two paths that plants implement during elevated heat conditions to minimize heat damage. Carbon dioxide sensors play a central role in the stomatal warming-cooling responses, while a second heat response pathway bypasses normal photosynthesis-driven responses, leading to increased water use efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2024
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.

Origami paper sensors could help early detection of infectious diseases in new simple, low-cost test

Researchers at Cranfield University have developed an innovative method for identifying biomarkers in wastewater using origami-paper sensors, enabling early detection of infectious diseases. The new test device is portable, fast, and cost-effective, making it a game-changer for public health measures.

SourceCranfield University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2024
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.

Scientists quantify energetic costs of the migratory lifestyle in a free flying songbird

Researchers found that migrating blackbirds do not save energy in warmer climates, but instead reduce their metabolism before departure. The study reveals a previously unknown mechanism used by migrants to save energy prior to migration, and suggests alternative physiological adaptations may offset the energy costs of migration.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2024

Improving eye tracking to assess brain disorders

A University of Houston team developed non-invasive, comfortable, and safe wearable sensors to monitor eyeball movements, providing early warning signs of brain-related disorders. The new sensors have potential applications in diagnosing conditions like ADHD, autism, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateSep 16, 2024

ZJU researchers address oxidation issue of copper by laser writing towards in-situ integrated sensing

Researchers from Zhejiang University have developed a hybrid laser direct writing technique that enables the creation of functional copper interconnects and carbon-based sensors within a single integrated system. The process allows for real-time temperature monitoring over extended periods, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 5, 2024

Can technology turn exercise pain into pleasure?

Researchers at the University of Bath have developed sensors that track physical changes experienced by exercisers while using VR headsets, allowing game designers to create immersive programs that adapt to a person's abilities and mood. This technology aims to increase user engagement and adherence to exercise.

SourceUniversity of Bath·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2024
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.

Second genetic sensor for DNA methylation discovered

Researchers at Rockefeller University identified CDCA7 as a new genetic sensor for DNA methylation, resolving the molecular function of a gene associated with a rare genetic disorder. The discovery explains how CDCA7 ensures accurate inheritance of DNA methylation and fills a major gap in epigenetics.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 27, 2024