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Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Microstructured optical fibers find their 3D-printed groove

Researchers at KAUST developed a high-precision 3D printing process to fabricate photonic crystal fibers with unprecedented ease and precision. This allows for the creation of small-scale optical devices capable of using photons for high-speed information processing, featuring tight space confinement of light.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOptica·DateJan 25, 2021

A microscopic look at aneurysm repair

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh have identified a new, primary phase of blood vessel restructuring that begins immediately after an aneurysm forms. This immediate adaptation enables the vessel to better handle new loads and reduces the risk of rupture.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalExperimental Mechanics·DateJan 25, 2021

Cotton quality mapping as a tool for growers

The study maps cotton fiber quality to determine how in-field practices impact fiber growth, enabling growers to maximize profitability and reduce environmental impact. By combining data on yield, fiber quality, and sustainability metrics, producers can provide customers with information on the cotton they use.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateJan 14, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Mighty morphing 3D printing

Researchers at UMD developed a morphing nozzle to control fiber orientation during composite additive manufacturing, enabling the creation of materials with on-demand properties. This innovation could lead to new biomedical and defense applications for 3D printed fiber-filled composites.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateJan 6, 2021

New method sees fibers in 3D, uses it to estimate conductivity

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a method to create 3D images of fiber orientation in composite materials, enabling accurate predictions of thermal conductivity. This innovation has far-reaching implications for designing high-performance materials and heat shields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalComputational Materials Science·DateDec 1, 2020

How does the spider spin its self-assembled silk?

Scientists at Kyoto University have discovered a new method for producing artificial spider silk by combining acidification and liquid-liquid phase separation. This breakthrough could lead to the development of sustainable, high-strength fibers with potential applications in manufacturing.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 30, 2020
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.

Scientists propose to make a laser scalpel with a 'curved' blade

A curved blade is proposed for a laser scalpel to expand its medical applications, being two times thinner than the current cylindrical option. The concept utilizes a photonic 'hook' formed by an amplitude or phase mask at the fiber end, enabling precise tissue manipulation and reduced bleeding.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·DateNov 20, 2020

Utilizing a 'krafty' waste product: Toward enhancing vehicle fuel economy

Researchers from Kanazawa University create a new, high-performance carbon fiber material by chemically modifying Kraft lignin, reducing its weight while maintaining mechanical strength. The resulting composite exhibits almost 3-fold improvement in mechanical strength compared to unmodified Kraft lignin.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateNov 5, 2020

New data on increasing cloth mask effectiveness

A recent study published in Risk Analysis suggests that Effective Fiber Mask Programs (EFMPs) can help communities balance economy and curb community spread. By using non-woven materials like cotton batting, the effectiveness of cloth masks can be improved by up to 90% against aerosol particles.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateOct 23, 2020

Intelligent nanomaterials for photonics

Scientists at the University of Jena have developed a novel material platform by integrating 2D materials with glass fibers, enabling novel applications in sensors and non-linear optics. The breakthrough allows for the direct growth of 2D materials on optical fibers, overcoming laborious transfer processes.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 7, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Secret of plant dietary fibre structure revealed

Researchers at UQ and KTH discovered how plant cell walls balance rigidity with flexibility, thanks to a family of polymers called hemicelluloses. This breakthrough has wide applications in nutrition, medicine, agriculture and more.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 2020

Brazilian researcher creates an ultra-simple inexpensive method to fabricate optical fiber

A novel process for fabricating special optical fiber has been developed by Brazilian researcher Cristiano Cordeiro, simplifying the conventional method that requires costly equipment. The new process can be completed in under an hour and is significantly cheaper, enabling more researchers to produce their own optical fiber.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2020
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.

Mixing silk with polymers could lead to better biomedical implants

Scientists develop versatile materials by mixing silk fabric with synthetic polymers, offering improved properties for human body tissues. The composites show hardness and stiffness compatible with bone, making them potentially more resilient yet comfortable than metal structures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 2020

No limit yet for carbon nanotube fibers

Researchers at Rice University have developed carbon nanotube fibers that are stronger than Kevlar and conductive like copper. The fibers have doubled in strength and conductivity every three years, a trend spanning nearly two decades.

SourceRice University·JournalCarbon·DateAug 17, 2020

Nanocrystals from recycled wood waste make carbon-fiber composites tougher

A new study by Texas A&M University researchers demonstrates the use of cellulose nanocrystals to uniformly coat carbon nanotubes on carbon-fiber composites, resulting in increased strength and resistance. This innovative method enables the design of stronger, more efficient composite materials from the nanoscale.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateAug 11, 2020

How plantains and carbon nanotubes can improve cars

A team of researchers at the University of Johannesburg has developed a natural fibre-reinforced polymer hybrid nanocomposite material using plantain fibers and carbon nanotubes. The resulting composite exhibits improved tensile and flexural strength compared to epoxy resin alone.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Materials Research and Technology·DateJul 29, 2020
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.

Devices can reduce fibers produced in laundry cycle by up to 80%

A new study reveals fibre-catching devices can significantly reduce microplastic particles in wastewater, with some devices reducing fibres by up to 78%. The research suggests that designing garments to last longer and shedding less fibres is crucial for long-term environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 15, 2020

Off the scales: Fish armor both tough and flexible

Researchers characterized carp scales using X-ray imaging, revealing a toughening mechanism called adaptive reorientation. The study's findings may inspire the design of advanced synthetic materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalMatter·DateJun 18, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Twisted microfiber's network responses to water vapor

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology create unique micro-springs from natural polysaccharide fibers with self-assembling twisted microstructures. The sacran fiber behaves like a mechanical spring under humid conditions, enabling fast bending and stretching responses to changes in humidity.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalSmall·DateJun 11, 2020

Three-dimensional chessboards

Osaka University researchers have developed a new method to create nanocellulose films with multiple axes of alignment using liquid-phase 3D-patterning. This technology has the potential to lead to affordable and energy-efficient optical materials, including smartphone displays.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNanomaterials·DateMay 19, 2020
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.

Transporting energy through a single molecular nanowire

Researchers have discovered that single molecular nanowires outperform bundles in transporting energy with minimal losses. Coherence, which enables delocalized energy movement across multiple molecules, is lost in bundled fibers due to strain, hindering efficient energy transfer.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 8, 2020

Fiber optics capture seismic signatures of the rose parade

A recent study used fiber optic cables to capture seismic signatures of the Rose Parade, capturing the vibrations of marching bands and floats. The technique, called distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), revealed distinct signals from the parade, including harmonic frequencies corresponding to even-stepping marching bands.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMay 6, 2020

Electrospun manuka honey nanofibrous wound dressings

Researchers at Shinshu University developed electrospun manuka honey nanofibrous wound dressings with antimicrobial properties. The composite mats demonstrated effectiveness against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains, promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.

SourceShinshu University·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateApr 14, 2020

Archaeology: Ancient string discovery sheds light on Neanderthal life

A six-millimetre-long cord fragment discovered in Abri du Maras, France, dates back to between 41,000-52,000 years ago and features a three-ply cord made from natural fibres. The discovery suggests that Neanderthals may have possessed advanced cognitive abilities, including mathematical concepts and basic numeracy skills.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 9, 2020
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.

Revamping optical fibers to transmit even more data

Researchers explore alternative materials to improve optical fiber's data transmission capabilities, as telecom demands grow. They discovered fluoride glass can transmit light over a wider range of wavelengths, but it is more expensive and brittle.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 18, 2020

Biophysicists blend incompatible components in one nanofiber

Researchers created an electrospun fiber blending protein and polymer, demonstrating gradual protein release. The study showcases the versatility of blended mats for biomedical applications like burn dressings, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalRSC Advances·DateMar 16, 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.

Improving the electrical and mechanical properties of carbon-nanotube-based fibers

Researchers at the Beckman Institute developed a technique to create chemically cross-linked carbon-nanotube-based fibers, significantly improving their electrical and mechanical properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of high-performance supercapacitors with potential applications in fields like aerospace.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 18, 2020

An early warning system for damage in composite materials

A team at NIST has developed a tool to monitor changes in composite materials, allowing for the measurement of damage that occurs as they age. This technology enables early warning systems for structures like wind turbines and aerospace components.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateFeb 18, 2020

Fiber crossings ahead: Key enzymes affecting nervous system pathway identified

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have identified two key enzymes, Sulf1 and Sulf2, critical for the normal development of the corticospinal tract (CST) in mice. The CST is a group of neuronal fibers connecting each side of the brain to the opposite side of the spinal cord, essential for voluntary motor movements.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMolecular Neuroscience·DateFeb 5, 2020

New nano-barrier for composites could strengthen spacecraft payloads

Researchers have developed a multi-layered nano-barrier that bonds with carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRPs) to eliminate moisture absorption and expansion issues. This innovation enables the creation of high-precision instrument structures for future space missions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 23, 2019
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.

Unique polymer fibers: Light, strong, and tough

Researchers have developed unique polymer fibers with high tensile strength and toughness, making them suitable for industrial applications such as textiles, medical technology, and aerospace engineering.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

Acoustic focusing to amass microplastics in water

A new device uses acoustic focusing to gather microplastics in water, promising a practical solution to the pollution problem. The device collects particles of different sizes and types with high efficiency, showing promise for future improvements.

SourceShinshu University·DateDec 9, 2019

Graphene takes off in composites for planes and cars

Researchers developed graphene-integrated composites to improve strength and properties of fibre-reinforced composites. These materials can withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and lightning strikes, making them suitable for aerospace and automotive industries.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateDec 5, 2019

Seismologists see future in fiber optic cables as earthquake sensors

Scientists are exploring the use of fiber optic cables as earthquake sensors due to their potential for accurate seismic data collection. Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology uses internal flaws in fibers to detect changes in temperature, strain, or vibrations caused by seismic waves.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateDec 4, 2019

VTT developed an optical fiber made of cellulose

Researchers at VTT created an optical fibre from cellulose, suitable for measuring moisture levels in buildings. The cellulose-based fibre absorbs and releases water, allowing for accurate measurements.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalCellulose·DateDec 3, 2019
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.

Researchers use 3D printing to make glass optical fiber preform

The researchers developed a method to print silica optical fibers using additive manufacturing, eliminating the need for precise core centering. This allows for the creation of complex fiber designs and applications, such as fiber optic sensors, with reduced costs and improved longevity.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 30, 2019

Keeping cool by twisting and coiling 'twistocaloric' yarns

Scientists have discovered a novel cooling method using twistocaloric yarns, which can cool materials by up to 4.7 degrees Celsius in a single cycle. This technology has the potential to replace traditional vapor-compression refrigeration systems with more energy-efficient and sustainable alternatives.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 10, 2019
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.

New washing machine filter breaks down plastic microfibres

A new filter developed at the University of Exeter can degrade and dissolve plastic microfibres released during washing, which account for over a third of ocean microplastics. The smart filter catches microfibres and uses enzymes to break them down into safe compounds.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateSep 26, 2019

Nanostructured material with potential for use in catalyzers

A Brazilian research group, supported by FAPESP, has developed a nanostructured titanium oxide material through electrospinning and atomic layer deposition. The material exhibits high surface area and reacts with UV light to degrade organic matter.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMaterials Today·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Seismologists monitor Ridgecrest aftershocks using novel fiber optic network

A team of seismologists from Caltech is tracking thousands of tiny aftershocks in the Ridgecrest region using a novel fiber optic network. This technique involves shooting light down unused fiber optic cables, which act as individual seismometers, allowing for unprecedented detail on the evolution of earthquake sequences.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateJul 24, 2019

Artificial 'muscles' achieve powerful pulling force

Researchers at MIT develop fiber-based system that can contract and expand like a muscle, producing surprisingly strong pulling forces. The fibers can be manufactured in batches up to hundreds of meters long and are extremely lightweight and quick-responding.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 11, 2019

UI researchers validate optimum composites structure created with additive manufacturing

A team of researchers successfully validated an optimized composite material structure created using additive manufacturing, resulting in a stiffer and stronger material. The structure features a curved deposition line pattern, which was found to be the most optimal for achieving maximum stiffness and strength.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalExperimental Mechanics·DateJun 27, 2019
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.

Electron beam strengthens recyclable nanocomposite

Researchers at Kanazawa University found that electron beam irradiation improves the mechanical properties of short-carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastics. The treatment strengthens and lengthens carbon fibers, reducing the negative effects of crosslinking and increasing recyclability.

SourceKanazawa University·DateJun 14, 2019

How to program materials

Ali Gooneie simulates atoms and molecules to explain material properties like smooth surfaces, flexibility, heat-conductivity, and insulation. His research uses the finite element method to predict macroscopic properties of composite materials.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalPolymer Degradation and Stability·DateMay 21, 2019

'Exotic' genes may improve cotton yield and quality

Researchers used genetic maps to identify genes controlling fiber length in Sealand cultivars, which improved fiber quality while maintaining or increasing yields. This breakthrough could help breeders overcome the yield vs quality challenge in cotton breeding.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 1, 2019

New polymer films conduct heat instead of trapping it

MIT engineers have developed thin polymer films that conduct heat better than many metals, including steel and ceramic. The films, which are thinner than plastic wrap, exhibit high thermal conductivity due to the untangled molecular structure of polyethylene.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2019