Fiber Optics
Articles tagged with Fiber Optics
Millimeter-scale resolution in fiber-optic sensing: single-ended technique advances infrastructure monitoring
Researchers develop signal-processing method to suppress distortions, achieving 6mm spatial resolution in single-ended Brillouin sensing. This enables early detection of damage or abnormal conditions in aging infrastructure.
Researchers demonstrate stable links for quantum networks over kilometers of noisy fiber
Researchers from NIST and University of Colorado, Boulder, have demonstrated highly stabilized fiber links for quantum networking. They achieved nanometer precision stabilization while separating the classical light from the quantum signal, enabling the transmission of quantum information reliably.
Imaging the Moon’s interior with fiber-optics
Using Distributed Acoustic Sensing technology, scientists deployed fibre-optic cables across the lunar surface to detect seismic waves generated by moonquakes, meteorites, and landings. The cables can record signals at a higher spatial resolution than traditional seismic networks.
IEEE researchers achieve low-power ultrashort mid-IR pulse compression
A team of researchers from SASTRA Deemed University demonstrates a fiber-based method for compressing mid-infrared laser pulses into ultrashort, low-noise bursts efficiently. The system reduces input power from kilowatts to 80 watts, improving energy efficiency and thermal stability.
Massive-scale spatial multiplexing with 3D-printed photonic lanterns achieved by researchers
The Hebrew University team designed an adiabatic transition to convert multiple few-mode sources into a single multimode fiber, enabling efficient combining of dozens of small semiconductor lasers. The technology simplifies high-power laser systems and optical communications, preserving brightness and easing alignment constraints.
New design tackles heat challenges in high-power fiber lasers
Researchers at Fraunhofer IOF have developed a single-material cladding light stripper with self-adapting behavior, overcoming nonlinear effects and heat buildup in thulium fiber lasers. The design enables over 20 W of stripped signal light at 2 µm and up to 675 W at 793 nm, setting a new record for single-material CLS designs.
Comparison of pre-procedure lignocaine spray vs. spray-as-you-go for topical airway anesthesia in flexible bronchoscopy
This study compared pre-procedure lignocaine spray (PPL) and spray-as-you-go (SAYG) airway anesthesia in fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The results showed no significant differences in patient-reported pain, discomfort, coughing, or procedure duration between the two groups. However, operator comfort was slightly higher with the PPL protocol.
OFC 2026 plenary speakers address AI, advances in optical technologies and satellite communications
Four industry luminaries will discuss the use of AI-driven network architectures, advances in optical technologies for hyperscale datacenters, and laser-based communications between satellites. The talks highlight innovations in hardware solutions to meet increasing performance demands necessary for AI, datacenters and networks.
Novel transmission technique enables world record 430 Tb/s in a commercially available, international-standard-compliant optical fiber
Researchers have demonstrated a record-breaking 430 terabits per second (Tb/s) optical transmission using a novel approach that triples the capacity of standard-compliant cutoff-shifted optical fibers. The technology offers high throughput with reduced complexity, while utilizing existing optical fiber infrastructure.
Prime time for fiber optics to take a deep dive into brain circuits
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new fiber-optic device, PRIME, which delivers multi-site, reconfigurable optical stimulation through a single implant. This technology enables manipulation of neural activity deep in the brain and holds promise for understanding complex brain circuits.
New low-cost, efficient single-photon source for powering future quantum internet
Researchers have developed a highly efficient fiber-coupled single-photon source that generates photons directly inside an optical fiber, reducing transmission loss. This breakthrough enables the creation of secure quantum communication networks and paves the way for next-generation all-fiber-integrated quantum computing technologies.
New fiber-optic method tracks Alzheimer’s plaques in active mice
Researchers developed a fiber-optic method to track Alzheimer's plaques in freely behaving mice, allowing for real-time monitoring and long-term tracking of pathological changes. The technique uses fluorescent dye to bind specifically to amyloid fibrils and provides a minimally invasive way to study disease progression.
Tunable metafibers for power-controlled remote light focusing
A new study introduces a novel solution for precise control of light focus, enabling compact and robust tuning of optical fibers. The tunable Metafiber uses a 3D nanoprinted phase-only hologram to achieve remote focus control by adjusting relative power between guided modes.
The race for synchronization: Optical fiber emerges as the key track
Researchers develop fiber-based O-TWTFT system, offering unparalleled stability across vast distances. Fiber optics enables applications such as redefining the second and precise geodesy.
IEEE study reveal the physics of laser emission from Mamyshev oscillator
Researchers from Hunan University uncover buildup dynamics of harmonic mode-locking in fiber-based Mamyshev oscillators, achieving high stability and signal-to-noise ratio. The study identifies five distinct phases in the generation of stable harmonic mode-locking, challenging conventional understanding of laser emission.
Researchers demonstrated how optical fibers can make computers ultra-fast
A research team from Tampere University and Université Marie et Louis Pasteur has demonstrated a novel way to process information using light and optical fibers. The study used femtosecond laser pulses and an optical fiber to mimic the processing of artificial intelligence, achieving accuracy of over 91% in under one picosecond.
World's first practical surface-emitting laser for optical fiber communications developed: advancing miniaturization, energy efficiency, and cost reduction of light sources
Researchers developed world's first practical surface-emitting laser using quantum dots, advancing miniaturization and energy efficiency of light sources. The innovation enables high-performance, scalable structures and cost reductions through mass production.
World record achieved in transmission capacity and distance: With 19-core optical fiber with standard cladding diameter 1,808 km transmission of 1.02 petabits per second
A new world record has been set for petabit-class transmission over a distance of 1,808 km using a 19-core optical fiber with low loss across multiple wavelength bands. The demonstration marks a major step forward in developing scalable, high-capacity networks and addressing the world's growing demand for data.
Dual-laser technique lowers Brillouin sensing frequency to 200 MHz
Researchers developed a dual-laser Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry system that measures strain and temperature along an optical fiber without costly GHz equipment. The setup recorded Brillouin gain spectra at only about 200 MHz, over 50 times lower than the usual 11 GHz band.
University of Rochester and RIT develop experimental quantum communications network
Researchers at University of Rochester and RIT created an experimental quantum communications network to transmit information securely over long distances. The network uses single photons to enable secure communication without cloning or interception.
Integrated encryption and communication framework achieves record 1 Tb/s secure transmission over 1,200-km optical fiber
Researchers developed an IEAC framework combining robust security with high-capacity transmission performance, achieving a record 1 Tb/s secure transmission over 1,200 km of optical fibre. The system eliminates the trade-off between security and speed by integrating encryption into the communication process.
Fiber optics detect crevasse icequakes on alpine glacier
Researchers deployed fiber optics to detect seismic signals of crevasses opening on a Swiss glacier, confirming the technology's potential in monitoring glacier stability. The team detected 951 icequakes with strong oscillations after the arrival of seismic surface waves.
Do neurons transmit light?
Scientists investigate whether living neurons can transport light through their axons, which would significantly change current models of the nervous system. If successful, it could have major implications for treating brain diseases and healing the brain.
Researchers demonstrate the UK’s first long-distance ultra-secure communication over a quantum network
Researchers successfully demonstrated the UK’s first long-distance ultra-secure transfer of data over a quantum communications network, enabling secure video calls and encrypted medical data transmission. The network uses standard fibreoptic infrastructure and quantum phenomena to enable ultra-secure data transfer.
A router for photons
Harvard researchers have created a photon router that could plug into quantum networks to create robust optical interfaces for noise-sensitive microwave quantum computers. The breakthrough enables control of microwave qubits with optical signals generated many miles away, bridging the energy gap between microwave and optical photons.
A multimodal light manipulator
Researchers at Harvard created a new type of interferometer that can modulate aspects of light in one compact package, enabling precise control over light's frequency and intensity. This breakthrough has the potential to be used in advanced nanophotonic sensors or on-chip quantum computing.
Revealing brain energy dynamics: decoding the response to epileptic seizures
A study published by Tohoku University reveals that epileptic seizures can significantly reduce ATP levels in neurons, while increasing pyruvate levels in astrocytes. This finding challenges the traditional view of brain energy dynamics and suggests a more complex interplay between neuronal activity and metabolic processes.
Groundbreaking study unveils new complexities in synchronization phenomena
Researchers have experimentally confirmed complex synchronisation patterns in oscillatory systems, including leaf-like structures and gaps representing unsynchronised states. This breakthrough builds on previous studies using breathing-soliton lasers to explore nonlinear dynamics.
Tiny component for record-breaking bandwidth
Researchers from ETH Zurich have developed a tiny plasmonic modulator that can transmit data with frequencies over a trillion oscillations per second, breaking previous records. The new modulator can be used for various applications, including high-performance computing and measurement technology.
OFC 2025 brings innovation, collaboration and industry breakthroughs to California
The event will feature major announcements in AI-driven networking, 1.6T advancements, quantum technologies, and next-gen optical innovations. Over 13,500 attendees are expected, with nearly 100 California-based companies participating.
OFC 2025 to showcase multi-vendor interoperability demonstrations, alongside OFCnet live testbed for next-generation networking
OFC 2025 features live, multi-vendor interoperability demonstrations from Ethernet Alliance, OIF and Open ROADM MSA. The event highlights advancements in open, standards-based networking solutions, including SDN-integrated demonstrations and energy-efficient interfaces.
30 million euros for a novel method of monitoring the world's oceans and coastal regions using telecommunications cables
A new research infrastructure called SAFAtor aims to close the gap in ocean data by collecting real-time pressure, temperature, and seismic data from deep-sea telecommunications cables. The project will deploy sensor technology along an undersea cable to monitor climate and geological hazards.
Self-imaging of structured light in new dimensions
Researchers at Tampere University and Kastler-Brossel Laboratory have demonstrated self-imaging of light in cylindrical systems, facilitating unprecedented control of light's structure. They also explore a new type of space-time duality, bridging different fields of optics.
IEEE study reveals breakthroughs in high-performance photon detectors
Researchers developed a fabrication technique to overcome design challenges for scalable single-photon detectors, enabling ultra-fast detection of photons regardless of direction or polarization. The study provides a comprehensive guide to fabricating high-quality fractal SNSPDs with improved sensitivity and system detection efficiency.
UCF alum, professor team up to power next-generation AI data centers
Relativity Networks develops patent-pending HCF cable that transmits data nearly 50% faster than conventional glass fiber, expanding data center geographical optionality. UCF's College of Optics and Photonics supports the innovation through industry partnerships and research collaborations.
When qubits learn the language of fiberoptics
Researchers developed a method to 'translate' optical signals to and from qubits, reducing cryogenic hardware needed. This breakthrough enables scalable quantum computers with increased qubit numbers, laying the foundation for room-temperature networks.
Ice streams move due to tiny ice quakes
Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered tiny ice quakes deep inside ice streams, explaining the discrepancy between simulations and satellite measurements. The findings impact sea-level rise estimates and may reveal fault planes in ice cores, providing a better understanding of ice stream deformation.
Scientists achieve breakthrough in high-resolution distributed temperature sensing using plastic optical fibers
Researchers developed a new approach to enhance spatial resolution of distributed temperature sensing, achieving a theoretical spatial resolution of 4.8 cm. This breakthrough uses perfluorinated graded-index POFs with high temperature sensitivity and low strain sensitivity.
Low-cost laparoscope designed for low- and middle-income countries
The KeyScope is a low-cost, robust laparoscope priced at approximately $1,000, making it accessible in low- and middle-income countries. It offers high-resolution images, color accuracy, and low distortion, comparable to standard laparoscopes.
Global internet grid could better detect earthquakes with new algorithm
Researchers developed a new algorithm that combines fibre optic data with traditional seismometer measurements to improve earthquake detection. The approach works well even in noisy environments and can be applied to any fibre network, enabling more detailed and effective seismic monitoring networks.
Optical fiber sensor provides simple and sensitive detection of arsenic in drinking water
Researchers developed a simple and sensitive optical fiber sensor for real-time detection of extremely low levels of arsenic in water. The sensor can detect arsenic levels as low as 0.09 ppb and provides analysis within just 0.5 seconds, making it a powerful tool for monitoring and ensuring safer water quality.
Tapered polymer fibers enhance light delivery for neuroscience research
Researchers developed tapered polymer optical fibers that can deliver light to the brain, enabling more efficient and effective optogenetics experiments. The fibers reduce tissue inflammation and increase the volume of illuminated brain tissue compared to standard optical fibers.
ORNL partnership with EPB tests new method for protecting quantum networks
The demonstration used automatic polarization compensation to stabilize the polarization of a signal sent over a commercial network with no downtime. The approach enabled continuous transmission of signals for more than 30 hours without interruptions.
Revolutionizing data centers: Penn engineers’ breakthrough in photonic switching
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a novel photonic switch that can redirect signals in trillionths of a second with minimal power consumption. The new switch uses non-Hermitian physics and silicon material to achieve unprecedented speed and efficiency.
First demonstration of quantum teleportation over busy Internet cables
Researchers successfully transmit quantum information through a 30-kilometer-long fiberoptic cable carrying internet traffic, introducing a new possibility for combining quantum communication with existing internet cables. This breakthrough simplifies the infrastructure required for distributed quantum sensing or computing applications.
Miniaturized all-fiber photoacoustic spectrometer for intravascular gas detection
Researchers developed a miniaturized all-fiber photoacoustic spectrometer for intravascular gas detection, achieving detection limits of 9 ppb and response times as quick as 18 milliseconds. The system detects trace gases at the ppb level and analyzes nanoliter-sized samples with millisecond response times.
Preventing brain injury complications with specialized optical fibers
A new optical fiber sensing system can track six biomarkers simultaneously and automatically provide crucial information on brain health. The technology has been successfully tested in lab experiments using animal brains and human cerebrospinal fluid samples, demonstrating its potential to monitor complications from traumatic injuries.
To build better fiber optic cables, ask a clam
Researchers discovered that heart cockle shells have translucent areas with hair-thin strands that deliver specific wavelengths of light into the bivalves' tissues. This natural system filters out bad wavelengths and channels in optimal wavelengths for photosynthesis, benefiting the clams' symbiotic algae.
Storm in a laser beam: Physicists create “light hurricanes” that could transport huge amounts of data
Researchers at Aalto University have developed a method to create tiny vortices in light, which can carry information and potentially increase data transmission capacity by 8-16 times. The discovery uses quasicrystal design and manipulated metallic nanoparticles to achieve this feat.
Learnable digital signal processing: a new benchmark of linearity compensation for optical fiber communications
The LDSP framework integrates deep learning optimization into traditional DSP, achieving substantial improvements in performance and efficiency. It optimizes DSP parameters globally using backpropagation algorithms, resulting in enhanced compensation for linear and nonlinear performance.
Fiber-optic drug delivery strategy for synergistic cancer photothermal-chemotherapy
A team of scientists has developed a fiber-optic drug delivery strategy that targets cancer tumors with high precision and efficiency. The system uses photons, photothermo-sensitizers, and chemotherapeutics to induce localized hyperthermia, releasing encapsulated drugs and ensuring minimal side effects.
Smarter clot busting: WPI researcher to develop real-time imaging technology for stroke treatment
Yihao Zheng and his team are developing a fiber-optic probe that analyzes artery blockages in the brain and guides procedures for blockage removal. The technology uses light and advanced calculations to determine the properties of blood clots, enabling doctors to make informed decisions about how to remove them.
Optica Quantum October 2024 Issue Press Tip Sheet
The new issue of Optica Quantum features 10 research articles on quantum information science and technology. New methods for compensating scattering and aberrations in entangled photon systems have been proposed, and ultrafast nonlinear wave mixing spectroscopy schemes employing coherent light pulses and vacuum modes are being explored.
Russian physicists determine indices enabling prediction of laser behavior
Researchers at HSE University identified universal critical indices for calculating fibre laser characteristics and operating regimes. The study enables predictions of laser parameters and facilitates optimisation for various applications.
Side-polished pump combiner: Building block for robust all-fiber mid-IR lasers
Researchers developed a novel side-polished fibre pump combiner that achieves high coupling efficiency and stabilizes Mid-IR laser operation. The design effectively distributes heat load across the polished fibre area, enabling long-term stable operation with low excess losses.
Side-polished pump combiner: Building block for robust all-fiber mid-IR lasers
A novel concept for a hybrid fibre pump combiner is introduced, enabling high-power, long-term stable operation in Mid-IR fibre laser systems. The design leverages evanescent field coupling to overcome the limitations of soft glass fibres.
Scientists demonstrate advanced low-coherence BOCDR system using periodic pseudo-random modulation
Researchers have developed a low-coherence Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry system that overcomes spatial resolution and measurement range trade-offs. The new method uses periodic pseudo-random modulation, achieving accurate distributed strain measurements without a variable delay line.
Plasmonic modulators could enable high-capacity space communication
Researchers have achieved data rates of up to 424Gbit/s using plasmonic modulators for free-space optical communication. This technology could provide high-speed, high-capacity data transmission for space missions with lower latency and less interference.
Integrating MRI and OCT for new insights into brain microstructure
The study compares nerve fiber orientation captured with specialized MRI and OCT approaches, laying groundwork for combining these imaging techniques. The findings show strong potential for PS-OCT to validate dMRI data, providing valuable insights about the microstructural organization of nerve fibers.