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Noisy bubbles hinder ultrasound-boosted chemical reactions: Sonochemistry model shows

Researchers have developed a numerical model that explains how increasing ultrasonic power reduces chemical reaction rates in sonochemistry. The model shows that oscillating bubbles emit their own sound waves, generating unwanted noise that distorts the ultrasonic field and limits reaction efficiency.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalUltrasonics Sonochemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2026

How a whale's dive shapes its song

Researchers found specific song themes tied to specific parts of a dive, revealing insights into how singing affects energy use, oxygen management and vulnerability. The study's findings offer practical applications for tracking whale populations and establishing a clearer baseline for normal humpback behavior.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 3, 2026
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.

Focusing underwater sound with a lens 40% lighter than conventional designs

A Korean research team created an underwater acoustic lens capable of focusing sound precisely at a desired point while reducing weight by about 40% compared to conventional designs. The findings have significant implications for underwater communication, marine environmental monitoring, and acoustic energy transfer.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of Sound and Vibration·DateJul 1, 2026

Ultrasound propagation in porous rocks: Theory identifies three distinct wave modes

Researchers developed a unified theoretical framework for ultrasound wave propagation and energy dissipation in porous rock formations. The study identifies three distinct longitudinal-wave types with different physical origins, providing a basis for understanding and predicting ultrasonic wave behavior in multiphase porous media.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 23, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Tungsten-Silicone contact lens curing underwater drone blindness

Researchers have developed a soft, custom-molded acoustic contact lens that actively corrects outgoing sound waves before they pass through an autonomous drone's protective shell. The lens boosts sonar signal strength by up to 10 decibels while cutting background reverberation without draining extra battery power.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJun 16, 2026

Armed with AI, FAU researchers identify prey from predator crunching sounds

Researchers developed a machine learning framework to detect and classify shell-crushing sounds, enabling the quantification of predator impacts on mollusk populations. The system uses multi-step approaches and demonstrates strong performance in controlled tank conditions and field settings.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalEcological Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 3, 2026

A strange humming phenomenon

A team of researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology conducted a study on 28 individuals who experience an unexplained buzzing or humming sound. The investigation tested two hypotheses: measuring the sound waves from human-made infrastructure and industry, as well as those produced by nature itself.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS One·TypeSurvey·DateJun 2, 2026

Visualizing sound: scientists reveal hidden behaviors of sound waves

Researchers developed a new analysis of sound wave behavior, revealing surprising effects that have been overlooked for decades. At high sound levels, the shape of the wave becomes progressively distorted, with crests compressing into narrow spikes.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 20, 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.

Birds clap in the dark to flirt

Researchers have captured the behavior of scissor-tailed nightjars creating a unique sound by snapping their wrists together during courtship and copulation. The study sheds light on lesser-known bird communication methods and raises questions about the nuances of mechanical sounds.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateMay 19, 2026

Creating an affordable and sustainable marimba #ASA190

Researchers at Acoustical Society of America identified hickory wood as the best alternative to expensive Honduran rosewood for making marimbas. Hickory wood has a similar acoustical response to rosewood and is significantly less expensive, making it an affordable option for schools and students.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2026

Tired? We can hear it in your voice #ASA190

Physical exertion impacts breathing coordination with speaking, altering vocal characteristics like pitch, intensity and pause structure. This changes induce measurable effects on speech recognition systems used by emergency responders and wearable devices.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2026
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.

Challenging biases about vocal fry #ASA190

Researchers study vocal fry and find low pitch is the key marker for creaky voice, contradicting popular belief that it's a hallmark of young women's speech. The study reveals social biases, not biological differences, are driving the perception of vocal fry.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2026
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.

How effective are torpedo bats, exactly? #ASA190

Acoustic analysis by Dan Russell from Pennsylvania State University shows that the torpedo bat shape affects the location of the sweet spot and how it feels, potentially impacting batted-ball speeds. Preliminary research suggests a possible advantage in extra miles per hour, but further testing is needed to confirm.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 13, 2026

Why do brown bats stop feeding during fireworks? #ASA190

Researchers studied the impact of Capitola, California's annual firework show on local brown bat populations, finding that the noise and lights disrupted their feeding patterns. The study revealed a measurable effect on bats' ability to hunt and catch prey during the display.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 12, 2026
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.

Developing a passive antenna sensor from a mosquito muse #ASA190

Researchers developed a mechanical prototype to demonstrate their bio-inspired sensor's ability to enhance vibration signals without amplification circuits or signal processing. The design aims to benefit acoustic and vibration sensors that need to detect very weak signals, such as microphones or biomedical sensors.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 11, 2026

Good vibrations for quantum communications

Scientists have successfully demonstrated atomic spin qubit interaction with a single-quantum sound wave, opening up new possibilities for quantum information storage and sensing applications. The experiment uses phonons to interact with atomic defects in diamond, enabling precise measurement of forces and temperatures.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2026
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.

Neurophysiology: How the brain recovers from noise-induced damage

Scientists found that the brain adapts to noise-induced damage within 24 hours by increasing excitability and inhibitory inputs in the superior paraolivary nucleus. This enables the restoration of critical timing information for sound processing, despite diminished sensitivity to quieter sounds.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 30, 2026

MIT engineers’ virtual violin produces realistic sounds

The new computational violin simulates the physics of string interaction with air, producing realistic sound. Luthiers can tweak parameters like wood type or body thickness before hearing the instrument's response.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Acoustics·DateApr 29, 2026

An acoustic device helps reduce bycatch of endangered Black Sea porpoises

A new acoustic device, PAL Wideband pinger, has been found to reduce harbour porpoise bycatch in the Black Sea by approximately 74%. The device's wider frequency band (10-150 kHz) is believed to contribute to its effectiveness. Effective strategies to reduce bycatch are urgently needed for the critically endangered species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateApr 27, 2026

One whale song unlocks oceans of data

A new study by UNSW researchers shows how a neural network can detect blue whale songs with remarkable accuracy, using only one recording of a blue whale call. The model performed well on real-world recordings, even those that were not part of the training data.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 23, 2026
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.

AI voices are easier to understand than human voices

Researchers found AI voice clones to be up to 20% more intelligible than humans in various testing scenarios, including noise, age, and accent. This breakthrough raises questions about the potential applications of voice cloning technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateApr 21, 2026

Nature might have a universal rhythm

A new study suggests that many animal communication signals, including those from insects, birds, mammals, and fish, repeat at nearly the same tempo of 2 hertz. This common tempo may reflect a shared biological constraint, enabling brains to detect signals more easily and process communication more efficiently.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 14, 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.

Sonar on stock smartwatches leads to hand-tracking breakthrough

Researchers at Cornell University developed WatchHand, a wearable technology that equips smartwatches with AI-powered micro sonar to track hand poses in real time. The system uses existing microphone and speaker on standard smartwatches, allowing for continuous tracking without bulky hardware.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 6, 2026

Closing your eyes might not help you hear better after all

Researchers found that closing eyes impairs hearing in noisy environments, while visual engagement improves sensitivity. Visual engagement helps anchor the auditory system to the external world.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateMar 17, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable

Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalComposite Structures·DateMar 6, 2026
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.

How the color of a theater affects sound perception

Researchers found that the visual design of a concert hall significantly affects perceived timbre, with more saturated colors producing colder sounds. Listeners also reported higher liking scores in darker environments, highlighting the importance of considering visual appearance in acoustic design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateFeb 24, 2026

Acoustics : a neglected driver of evolution in fishes

Researchers uncover novel mechanism of sound production in boxfishes, highlighting evolutionary transition from mute to vocal species. A comparative anatomical analysis reveals absence of sound mechanism in related Aracanidae family, supporting importance of acoustic communication in fish evolution.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateFeb 10, 2026

A hearing test for the world’s rarest sea turtle

Researchers evaluated the hearing sensitivity of Kemp's ridley sea turtles, finding they are most sensitive to low-frequency sounds produced by ships and machinery. This understanding will inform efforts to monitor and mitigate noise impacts on these endangered species.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateFeb 3, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

These caterpillars can hear using tiny hairs on their bodies

Researchers at Binghamton University discovered that caterpillars can hear airborne sounds via microscopic hairs on their bodies. The study found that the caterpillars were 10 to 100 times more responsive to airborne sound than surface vibrations felt on their feet, suggesting a new approach for improving microphone technology.

SourceBinghamton University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

Broadband ultrasonic imaging shows defects in all types of concrete

Researchers developed a high-resolution 3D ultrasonic imaging system for concrete that automatically adapts to different materials, improving contrast between defects and background material. The system uses a wide range of frequencies and can handle diverse materials without manual tuning.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 27, 2026

Arctic seas are getting louder as ice melts, posing risks – study shows how to better measure noise

The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.

SourceUniversity of Bath·Journalnpj Acoustics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026
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.

A single plate captures multiple frequencies at once

Researchers developed a new 'frequency-multiplexed elastic metasurface' that can precisely direct elastic waves at distinct frequencies onto different locations, enhancing signal intensity by up to 48 times. This technology breaks the conventional belief that one structure can perform only one function.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2026

Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife

A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalUrban Science·TypeObservational study·DateJan 22, 2026

Donated blood has a shelf life. A new test tracks how it's aging

Researchers have developed a fast and easy test that can track the aging process of red blood cells after storage, potentially improving the quality of blood transfusions. The device uses surface acoustic waves to detect changes in metabolites associated with aging cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 21, 2026

AI-based system for real-time detection of whip sounds in horse racing

Researchers developed an AI-based system that accurately detects whip sounds in horse racing, achieving detection rates of up to 70% in audio data. The system's ability to process audio in real-time and its reliance on high-frequency components make it a promising tool for improving animal welfare and fair competition.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEngineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence·DateJan 19, 2026
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.

Transforming acoustic waves with a chip

Researchers have developed a new acoustic wave-producing technology on an electronic chip, enabling customizable curved waves for trapping objects, routing wave information, and transporting fluids. This innovation has significant potential in medical applications, such as noninvasive surgery and biosensors.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2025

Using smartphones to improve disaster search and rescue

Researchers use smartphone microphones to detect sound waves that can penetrate through rubble, helping locate trapped victims. The method achieved an error of 5.04 degrees away from the hypothetical victim in a field test on a disaster training site.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2025

Ultrasonic pest control to protect beehives

Researchers develop sustainable and efficient pest control method that doesn't harm bees, targeting vulnerable species like greater and lesser wax moths. The technique uses ultrasonic signals to deter the pests, offering a potential solution to declining bee populations and food security concerns.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 4, 2025
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.

Software platform helps users find the best hearing protection

The Hearing Protection Optimization Tool translates acoustic and psychoacoustic factors into clear visuals, helping users compare different hearing protection devices. The tool matches users with regulatory-approved HPDs based on their noise environment and preferences.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 4, 2025

How sound moves on Mars

Researchers used NASA's measurements to simulate sound propagation on Mars, providing insight into weather and terrain effects on acoustic propagation. The study focused on the Jezero crater, where it simulated how sound moves through complex terrains, helping scientists understand how other atmospheres compare to Earth's.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 4, 2025

A metamaterial that bridges air and water

A team of researchers created a metamaterial that can transfer sound waves between air and water. The device, made from aluminum and steel plates, works by passing vibrations through its structure to facilitate communication between underwater and airborne vehicles.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 3, 2025
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.

Evaluating building materials for climate impact and noise suppression

A new study assesses various wall and floor types for their climate impact and acoustic performance, finding that timber outperforms standard steel studs in terms of climate friendliness. The research also highlights the importance of considering both acoustic comfort and environmental sustainability when designing buildings.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 3, 2025

To bop or to sway? The music will tell you

A study by Shimpei Ikegami found that vertical 'bop' music is characterized by clearer beats and percussive sounds, while horizontal 'sway' music is smoother with less percussion. Listeners' directional dancing inclinations matched the musicians' intended expressions.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 2, 2025

Making quieter dental drills to reduce dental anxiety

Researchers have designed a quieter dental drill to address the anxiety-causing sound of traditional drills, which can reach nearly 20 kilohertz. The new design optimizes blade geometry and exhaust port to minimize noise while maintaining performance, with the goal of reducing discomfort in patients.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 2, 2025