Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Breakthrough in optical information transmission

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute have developed a unidirectional device that significantly increases the quality of optical vortex signals. By transmitting selective optical vortex modes exclusively unidirectionally, they largely reduce detrimental backscattering to a minimum.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2022

New research tunes theory of sound levitation

Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney have extended the theory of acoustic levitation to account for asymmetrical particles, which is more applicable to real-world experience. This new understanding enables precise control and sorting of tiny objects using ultrasonic waves.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2022

MIT engineers build a battery-free, wireless underwater camera

MIT researchers create a low-power, sound-harvesting camera that captures color photos and transmits data wirelessly. The autonomous device can run for weeks without power, enabling scientists to explore remote oceans and monitor climate change impacts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

UW researchers bring first underwater messaging app to smartphones

Researchers at the University of Washington developed AquaApp, a mobile app that enables underwater messaging on billions of existing smartphones and smartwatches using software. The app uses acoustic signals to transmit messages and can accommodate up to 60 unique users on its local network.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 29, 2022
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 fine-tune “tweezers of sound” for contactless manipulation of objects

Researchers have enhanced technology to lift small particles using sound waves, achieving stable lifting of particles from surfaces. By fine-tuning control using an adaptive algorithm, they have improved the stability of their 'acoustic tweezers' technology, which could be deployed in space and other environments with minimal contact.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateAug 20, 2022

Using sound and bubbles to make bandages stickier and longer lasting

A team of researchers from McGill University has discovered a way to control the stickiness of adhesive bandages using ultrasound waves and bubbles. This breakthrough could lead to new advances in medical adhesives, especially in cases where adhesives are difficult to apply.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2022
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.

Ultrasound could save racehorses from bucked shins

Researchers have developed an ultrasound method that can screen for bucked shin in young horses, a condition that occurs in about 70% of animals during training. The technique uses axial transmission to detect irregularities in bone formation, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateAug 9, 2022

New photoacoustic endoscope fits inside a needle

Researchers have created a photoacoustic imaging endoscope probe that can fit inside a medical needle, resolving subcellular-scale tissue structural and molecular information in 3D. The device has an ultra-thin design, allowing for real-time 3D characterization of tissue during minimally invasive procedures.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateJul 27, 2022
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.

Even in sleep, your brain’s neurons are humming along to Mozart

A unique study of brain activity found that sound during sleep prompts a robust response from the brain, except in one key area where alpha-beta waves are attenuated. The findings could help understand how information is processed by the brain in unconscious states.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·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.

Multi-bubble math

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have developed a theoretical model to describe the motion of ultrasound waves in liquids containing multiple bubbles, which may enable advances in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of ultrasound technology. The new equations can also be used to enhance microbubble-enhanced medical applicati...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalUltrasonics Sonochemistry·DateJul 11, 2022

Scientists explain how Tonga's global tsunami 'jumped' from one ocean to another

A new study in Nature explains the mechanism behind the exceptional tsunami that occurred after the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano explosion in 2022. The research team analyzed satellite and sea-level data worldwide, demonstrating that the tsunami was driven by an acoustic-gravity wave caused by the volcano eruption.

SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·JournalNature·DateJul 4, 2022

Levitating objects with sound could revolutionize virtual reality and 3D printing

Scientists have successfully levitated objects using soundwaves in the presence of obstacles, paving the way for advancements in virtual reality and 3D printing. This breakthrough enables the creation of fully immersive real-world simulations and improved multi-material 3D printing capabilities.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2022

Moth wing-inspired sound absorbing wallpaper in sight after breakthrough

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered that moth wing scales can absorb up to 87% of incoming sound energy, even when placed on an artificial surface. This finding has huge implications for building acoustics and travel industries, with potential applications for ultrathin sound absorbing panels.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2022
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.

New, highly tunable composite materials—with a twist

Researchers at the University of Utah designed composite materials using moiré patterns, resulting in abrupt transitions between electrical conductor and insulator properties. The study's findings have broad potential technological applications and demonstrate a new geometry-driven localization transition.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2022

Acoustic sensors pinpoint shooters in urban setting #ASA182

Researchers developed an approach to predict shooter localization accuracy using geometric considerations, sensor characteristics, and urban environment. The prediction is represented as an ellipse-shaped area around the true shooter location, with smaller areas indicating higher accuracy.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 23, 2022

Fiber glow brings more go for underwater communications

Researchers from KAUST have designed an all-inorganic halide-perovskite polymer-fiber-photodetector that can detect light in the green region (around 510 nm), enabling fast underwater optical communications. The system offers a 3dB bandwidth of 13.1 MHz, allowing data transmission speeds of up to 152.5 Mbit/s.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOptics Express·DateMay 15, 2022
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.

Eruption’s echoes

Researchers characterized the Hunga volcano's atmospheric waves, providing exceptional resolution of the evolving wavefield compared to historic events. The data revealed Lamb waves, rare and low-frequency pressure waves associated with large eruptions and nuclear detonations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateMay 12, 2022

Hunga volcano eruption provides an explosion of data

A team of scientists from 17 nations studied the Hunga submarine volcano eruption, which created a variety of atmospheric wave types. The research provides insights into the behavior of Lamb waves, which are rare and linked to tsunami and volcanic plume generation.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateMay 12, 2022

Using sound to control enzymatic reactions

A team of scientists successfully controlled multistep enzyme reactions using audible sound, creating a new method for spatiotemporal regulation. The researchers used standing waves generated by sound to separate and compartmentalize solutions, allowing for the precise control of chemical reactions.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2022
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.

Search reveals eight new sources of black hole echoes

Researchers find that black holes go through a 'hard' and 'soft' state during outbursts, with the final flash possibly indicating a brief expansion of the corona. The findings help scientists understand how supermassive black holes shape galaxy formation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 2, 2022

Space-based system using GPS satellites could warn of incoming tsunamis

A new method for detecting tsunamis using existing GPS satellites has been developed by an international team of researchers. The system can issue warnings within 15 minutes of an earthquake or tsunami, and can be implemented in countries with a sparse GPS network.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 28, 2022

Researchers develop a paper-thin loudspeaker

Researchers at MIT have created a paper-thin loudspeaker that produces sound with minimal distortion while using a fraction of the energy required by traditional loudspeakers. The device, which is as thin as a dime and weighs about the same, can generate high-quality sound on any surface it is bonded to.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateApr 26, 2022
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.

Smallest earthquakes ever detected in micron-scale metals

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University detected smallest earthquakes in micron-scale metals, exhibiting characteristics similar to seismic events. The findings reveal a two-level structure of strain bursts and demonstrate the correlation between acoustic signals and plastic deformation.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2022

Enhancing deep sleep

A mobile system developed by ETH Zurich researchers aims to promote deep sleep through auditory brain stimulation, showing promise in enhancing slow waves during deep sleep in older adults. The system involves a headband that continuously measures brain activity and triggers short auditory signals to synchronize neuronal cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 8, 2022

Pinpointing the sound of failure

Researchers at Texas A&M University have identified a unique sound signature produced by rocks as they crack and break. This discovery was made using a combination of supervised machine learning, causal discovery, and rapid simulations. The team found that an unusual pattern of positive and negative measurements in sound wave-transmiss...

SourceTexas A&M University·TypeNews article·DateMar 30, 2022
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.

Orb-weaver spider uses web to capture sounds

Orb-weaver spiders have been found to use their massive webs as auditory arrays, capturing sounds and giving them advanced warning of prey or predators. The researchers used a special quiet room and placed a mini-speaker near the web, causing the spider to detect and respond.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2022

Optoacoustics for high-precision neuromodulation

Researchers at Boston University have developed optoacoustic neurostimulation with single neuron and subcellular level precision. Optoacoustic neuromodulation may offer advantages over ultrasonic neuromodulation, including higher spatial temporal resolution.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMar 28, 2022

Cells dancing harmonic duets could enable personalized cancer therapies

Researchers at Duke University have developed a device that manipulates particles and cells using complex sound waves, enabling selective pairing of individual cells to measure adhesion forces. This technology could lead to personalized medicine by allowing doctors to determine treatment for individual cancer patients.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022

A fabric that “hears” your heartbeat

A new fabric developed by MIT engineers can detect subtle heartbeat features and the direction of sudden sounds, enabling real-time monitoring of vital signs. The fabric works like a microphone, converting sound vibrations into electrical signals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2022
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.

Acoustic propulsion of nanomachines depends on their orientation

Physicists simulate acoustic propulsion of freely orientable nanoparticles by traveling ultrasound waves, finding that particle orientation affects propulsion. The study reveals important properties of acoustically propelled nanoparticles suitable for biomedical applications.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalACS Nano·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 11, 2022
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.

Researchers successfully measure second sound attenuation

A team led by Prof. PAN Jianwei from the University of Science and Technology of China has successfully measured second sound attenuation in a controlled experiment using ultra-cold lithium-6, verifying the dynamic scaling theory and paving the way for further research on quantum critical regions.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2022

Sonic advance: How sound waves could help regrow bones

Researchers at RMIT University used high-frequency sound waves to turn stem cells into bone cells, overcoming challenges in mass production and pain associated with extraction. The innovative treatment is faster, simpler, and more efficient than existing methods.

SourceRMIT University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

New highly efficient wave-based acoustics simulation for large architectural spaces could revolutionize acoustic design

Researchers developed a highly efficient wave-based acoustics simulation that can accurately estimate the acoustics of large-scale interior spaces. The method uses a time-domain Finite Element Method to consider frequency-dependent characteristics of sound absorption materials, enabling precise modeling and high-speed estimations.

SourceKobe University·JournalBuildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2022

How the brain filters out sounds

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt recorded brain waves of bats to understand how they filter out essential signals from echolocation calls and communication signals. The study shows that rare sounds elicit stronger neuronal responses than frequent ones.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers from the GIST propose ultrasound stimulation as an effective therapy for Alzheimer's disease in new study

Researchers at GIST demonstrate that ultrasound pulses can reduce β-amyloid plaque concentration and tau protein levels in AD-model mice, suggesting a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy. The treatment also improves brain connectivity without causing harm to brain tissue.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalTranslational Neurodegeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022

The first topological acoustic transistor

Harvard researchers create first topological acoustic transistor, utilizing sound waves to control flow on and off. The device demonstrates scalable and controllable 'acoustic switches' with potential applications in efficient noise reduction, ultrasound imaging, and more.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 5, 2022

Bringing the Sun into the lab

Researchers create laboratory model to experimentally confirm the behavior of plasma waves as predicted by theory. By studying the properties of liquid metals and high magnetic fields, they successfully generate Alfvén waves in a molten alkali metal, breaking through the sound barrier for the first time.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2022

Towards quantum states of sound

A team of researchers at Imperial College London has generated and observed non-Gaussian states of high-frequency sound waves comprising over a trillion atoms. This breakthrough makes important strides towards generating macroscopic quantum states that will enable future quantum internet components to be developed.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 9, 2021

CityU physicists discovered special transverse sound wave

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered a new type of sound wave that vibrates transversely and carries both spin and orbital angular momentum like light. This finding provides new degrees of freedom for sound manipulations, enabling unprecedented acoustic communications and sensing capabilities.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Trapping spins with sound

Scientists demonstrate acoustic manipulation of electron spins in silicon carbide, enabling efficient control of magnetic quantum properties. The technique uses surface acoustic waves to tune the spin state, preventing information loss and paving the way for more affordable quantum technologies.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.