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‘Ruler for light’ could enable detailed measurement in personal devices

A new type of frequency comb, called a microcomb, is developed by Stanford researchers that can be used to measure light with unprecedented precision. The device is innovatively small, ultra-energy efficient, and exceptionally accurate, making it suitable for widespread adoption in everyday electronics.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 2024

Beyond the ink: Painting with physics

Researchers analyzed the physical principles of dendritic painting, a technique that uses ink droplets to create intricate fractals. The study found that the thickness of the paint layer and the concentration of diluting medium are key factors in controlling the outcome of dendritic painting.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2024

CityUHK develops world-leading microwave photonics chip for high-speed signal processing

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has developed a world-leading microwave photonic chip capable of performing ultrafast analog electronic signal processing. The chip, 1,000 times faster and consuming less energy than traditional processors, has wide applications in 5/6G wireless communication, AI, and computer vision.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Under pressure

Scientists have created a novel instrument that enables the precise measurement of superconductors under extreme pressure, overcoming existing limitations. The new tool uses quantum sensors integrated into a standard pressure-inducing device, allowing for direct imaging of the material's behavior.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Merons realized in synthetic antiferromagnets

Scientists have successfully created and identified merons in synthetic antiferromagnets, which are rare collective topological structures. The achievement was made possible through extensive simulations and experiments by researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2024

SFU-led research team designs a cutting-edge protein lawnmower

A team of scientists from SFU has created a synthetic protein-based motor that harnesses biological reactions to propel itself, called 'The Lawnmower'. The device uses the digestive enzyme trypsin to cut peptides and convert them into energy, enabling self-guided motion.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2024

Electrons become fractions of themselves in graphene, study finds

Researchers at MIT have observed a rare electronic state in which electrons become fractions of their total charge without the need for external magnetic fields. This effect, known as the fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect, has significant implications for the development of topological quantum computing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 21, 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.

New non-toxic method for producing high-quality graphene oxide

Researchers at Umea University have developed a new, non-toxic method to produce high-quality graphene oxide with significantly fewer defects. This breakthrough allows for the synthesis of defect-free graphene oxide using a simpler procedure than traditional methods, enabling various industrial applications.

SourceUmea University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Edge-to-edge assembly technique for 2D nanosheets

Researchers fabricated a soccer ball-shaped construction using edge-to-edge assembly of 2D semiconductor materials, exhibiting exceptional mechanical stability and durability. The new technique improves the efficiency of catalytic reactions and facilitates the smooth movement of reactants, paving the way for the development of stable a...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 2, 2024
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.

PolyU develops high-efficiency carbon dioxide electroreduction system for reducing carbon footprint and progressing carbon neutrality goals

Researchers from PolyU develop a durable, highly selective and energy-efficient CO2 electroreduction system that converts CO2 into ethylene for industrial purposes. The APMA system achieves high specificity of 50% and operates for over 1,000 hours at an industrial-level current of 10A.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024

Magnesium still has the potential to become an efficient hydrogen store

A Swiss-Polish team has found the answer to why previous attempts to use magnesium hydride for efficient hydrogen storage failed. The researchers developed a new model that predicts local, thermodynamically stable clusters are formed in magnesium during hydrogen injection, reducing hydrogen ion mobility.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJan 25, 2024

Discovering the physics behind 300-year-old firefighting methods

Researchers analyzed 17th and 18th century firefighting devices to uncover the physics behind their success. The study found that the Windkessel effect, a chamber in a wooden wagon, compressed air to pump water continuously through a hose.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateJan 23, 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.

Focused ion beam technology

Focused ion beam technology has numerous applications in material processing, microelectronics, and life sciences. The instrument uses a finely focused ion beam for nanoscale analysis, prototype creation, and material modification.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 11, 2024

The rock that creates clouds

Researchers at TU Wien discovered that feldspar's unique surface geometry provides the perfect anchoring point for water molecules, enabling efficient cloud formation. The hydroxyl layer formed on the feldspar surface allows water molecules to stick and freeze, forming clouds.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 9, 2024

High-temperature superconductors, with a twist?

A Harvard University research team has demonstrated a new strategy for making and manipulating cuprate superconductors, clearing a path to engineering new forms of superconductivity. The team created a high-temperature, superconducting diode made out of thin cuprate crystals using a low-temperature device fabrication method.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rembrandt broke new ground with lead-based impregnation of canvas for The Night Watch

Researchers discovered a previously unknown layer of dispersed lead in the ground layer of Rembrandt's The Night Watch, using advanced analytical techniques. This finding sheds light on the artist's inventive approach to painting and highlights his efforts to improve the durability of his masterpieces.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2023

Harvesting water from air with solar power

Researchers have developed a promising new solar-powered technology to harvest water from air, capable of increasing daily water supply needs in dryland areas. The system uses a super hygroscopic gel to absorb and retain large amounts of water, with the potential for large-scale practical applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 5, 2023

Nextgen computing: Hard-to-move quasiparticles glide up pyramid edges

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new way to move quasiparticles, which could lead to more efficient devices and room temperature quantum computers. The team used a laser to create a cloud of quasiparticles that migrated up the pyramid's edge and settled at the peak.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 28, 2023
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.

Seeing cancer’s spread through a computational window

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new computational model called Adaptive Physics Refinement (APR) that can simulate the movement of individual cancer cells across long distances within the entire human body. This approach captures detailed cellular interactions and their effects on cellular trajectory, providing valuable...

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Understanding charged particles helps physicists simulate element creation in stars

Researchers developed a formula to predict properties of nuclei formed from charged clusters, essential for understanding element formation in stars. The approach simulates low-energy nuclear reactions using numerical lattices and Whittaker functions, enabling accurate calculations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 27, 2023

Nuclear physics traineeship program offers launchpad for research careers

The University of Texas at Arlington's Nuclear Research Experiences for Minority Students (NREMST) program provides paid traineeships in particle and nuclear physics to undergraduate students. The program, now receiving a $341,571 grant, has already hosted eight trainees who contributed to heavy ion beam production, detector developmen...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateNov 21, 2023

High efficiency and cooling performance in an electrocaloric heat pump

Researchers develop a solid-state electrocaloric cooling device that generates a 20 kelvin temperature difference with high efficiency, competing with other solid-state cooling strategies. The new heat pump achieves 64% of Carnot's efficiency, exceeding many vapor-compression and caloric cooling devices.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 16, 2023
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.

Solved: How a spinning magnet cause other magnets to levitate

Researchers at DTU Energy replicated a 2021 experiment where a fast-spinning magnet caused another magnet to hover. The force affecting the magnets is attributed to coupling between movement and magnetic force, allowing it to defy classical physics.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateNov 14, 2023

Cheap and efficient ethanol catalyst from laser-melted nanoparticles

Scientists have developed a new, efficient ethanol catalyst made from copper nanoparticles, which is cheaper than platinum and could increase the potential of ethanol fuel cells. The catalyst was created through laser melting and shows great promise for improving ethanol oxidation.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 9, 2023

Nanoparticle quasicrystal constructed with DNA

Scientists have successfully constructed a quasicrystal using DNA-assembled nanoparticles, demonstrating programmable control over material structures. The discovery opens avenues for designing advanced nanomaterials with unique properties.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 2, 2023

How quantum light sees quantum sound

Researchers at UEA have proposed a new method to investigate quantum-mechanical processes in molecules using quantum light. The study shows that phonon signatures can be detected in photon correlations, providing a toolbox for studying quantum sound interactions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023
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.

Pingpong balls score big as sound absorbers

Researchers created an inexpensive and effective sound insulation panel using pingpong balls as Helmholtz resonators, capturing ambient sound waves at their natural frequency. The design allows for adjustable acoustic properties and potential applications in various functionalities.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateOct 10, 2023

New "Assembly Theory" unifies physics and biology to explain evolution and complexity

Researchers developed a new theoretical framework called Assembly Theory, which bridges physics and biology to understand how complexity and evolution emerge. The theory explains and quantifies selection and evolution, providing new insights into the physics underlying biological complexity and evolutionary innovation.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Lasers deflected using air

Researchers at DESY have developed a method to deflect laser beams in air without contact, preserving the beam's quality. The technique uses acoustic density waves to create an invisible grating that changes the direction of the laser light.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

FAU Engineering study employs deep learning to explain extreme events

Researchers from FAU's College of Engineering and Computer Science employ a computer-vision deep learning technique to analyze wall-bounded turbulent flows. They successfully identify the sources of extreme events in a data-driven manner, providing new insights into non-linear relationships in fluid dynamics simulations.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 2, 2023

Successful optical biosensing using dual optical combs: High sensitivity and rapid detection of biomolecules with promising prospects

Dual optical comb technology enables high-sensitivity and rapid biomolecule detection, leveraging the connection between optical and electrical frequency signals. The approach combines the strengths of optical and electrical frequency measurement methods, offering enhanced precision and convenience in biosensing applications.

SourceInstitute of Post-LED Photonics, Tokushima University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2023
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 qubit circuit enables quantum operations with higher accuracy

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel superconducting qubit architecture that can perform operations between qubits with high accuracy, exceeding 99.9% for two-qubit gates and 99.99% for single-qubit gates. The new design utilizes fluxonium qubits, which have longer lifespans than traditional transmon qubits.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateSep 25, 2023

Machine learning models can produce reliable results even with limited training data

Researchers from University of Cambridge and Cornell University have developed a method to build machine learning models that can understand complex equations using far less training data. This breakthrough enables the construction of more time- and cost-efficient models for physics, engineering, and climate modeling applications.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2023

A team led by Auburn University discuss the blueprint for ultrafast spintronics

The study delves into magnetic behaviors and ultrafast dynamics in atomically thin materials, aiming to leverage these 2D magnets in innovative applications. Mastering spin dynamics is key to unlocking groundbreaking technologies like spin tunnel field-effect transistors and spin-filtering devices.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·JournalPhysics Reports·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 14, 2023
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.

Discovery of two potential Polar Ring galaxies suggests these stunning rare clusters might be more common than previously believed.

Researchers from Queen's University have identified two potential polar ring galaxies using data from the CSIRO's ASKAP radio telescope. The discovery suggests that these rare clusters might be more common than previously believed, with implications for our understanding of galaxy evolution and dark matter research.

SourceQueen's University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 13, 2023

Pioneering beyond-silicon technology via residue-free field effect transistors

Scientists have successfully fabricated centimeter-scale transition metal dichalcogenide field-effect transistors with low ohmic contact resistance close to the quantum limit. The devices exhibited an ultrahigh current on/off ratio of ~10^11 at 15 K, outperforming previous values.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2023

Researchers discover a potential application of unwanted electronic noise in semiconductors

A team of researchers has discovered a way to harness random telegraph noises in semiconductors, generating high-amplitude signals and manifesting inherent quantum states. By introducing vanadium into tungsten diselenide, they created a device that can switch between two stable states using voltage polarity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Advancing the commercialization of two-dimensional materials: achieving the goal with UV-assisted atomic layer deposition”

A team of researchers has successfully created a high-performance graphene-dielectric interface using a novel technique called UV-assisted atomic layer deposition. This breakthrough results in uniform atomic layer deposition without compromising graphene's properties, leading to improved electrical performance and reduced defects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateAug 7, 2023

Faster thin film devices for energy storage and electronics

Researchers have successfully grown high-quality single-crystalline T-Nb2O5 thin films with two-dimensional vertical ionic transport channels, enabling fast and dramatic changes in electrical properties. The material undergoes a significant electrical change upon Li insertion, allowing it to switch from an insulator to a metal.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Mikrostrukturphysik·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023
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.

Bromide ions cause ripples in semiclathrate hydrates

A recent study published in Applied Physics Letters reveals the dynamics of water molecules in tetra-n-butylammonium bromide semiclathrate hydrate using quasi-elastic neutron scattering. The research found that water molecules rapidly reorient, and their motion is consistent with breaking hydrogen bonds.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Novel thermal sensor could help drive down the heat

Researchers created a thin, flexible sensor that can visualize heat flow in real-time using thermoelectric phenomenon ANE. The sensor can be built deep inside devices and is quick, cheap, and easy to manufacture.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2023
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.

Droplet levitation is a new way to explore airborne viruses and microorganisms

Millimeter-sized droplets can be levitated for long periods using solutocapillary convection within a pool of silicone liquid, allowing researchers to study the activity of viruses and microorganisms in airborne aerosols. This phenomenon has potential applications in microbiology and biochemistry.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 18, 2023

Mystery of microgels solved

Soft particles called microgels can shrink abruptly when their concentration in a solvent is increased above a certain threshold, even without physical contact. Researchers have provided experimental proof of this phenomenon using neutrons from the Paul Scherrer Institute's SINQ spallation source.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

Move over diamond. hBN is quantum’s new best friend.

Researchers have developed a method to stabilize the –1 state of boron vacancy defects in hBN, enabling it to replace diamond as a material for quantum sensing and quantum information processing. The team discovered unique properties of hBN and characterized its material, opening up new avenues for study.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

Science in the kitchen

Researchers from the University of Warsaw explore how kitchen phenomena lead to breakthroughs in biomedicine and nanotechnology. They describe bubbles in champagne, Leidenfrost effect, and surface tension, revealing surprising connections between food science and scientific discoveries.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalReviews of Modern Physics·DateJun 22, 2023
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.

New microcomb device advances photonic technology

A new microcomb device developed by researchers at the University of Rochester offers a promising approach to generating stable microwave signals. The device's high-speed tunability enables applications in wireless communication, imaging, atomic clocks, and more.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2023