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Designing a light-trapping, color-converting crystal

Researchers at Stanford University have designed a crystal structure that can trap and convert both infrared and green laser light, significantly improving the efficiency of this process. The device, which is microscopic in size, has the potential to greatly benefit technologies in telecommunications, computing, and laser-based equipment.

NASA finds tropical storm Francisco in the Korea strait

NASA's Aqua satellite detected Tropical Storm Francisco in the Korea Strait, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms capable of heavy rain. The storm is located about 33 nautical miles north-northeast of Busan, South Korea, and is expected to move north and then northeast through the Sea of Japan.

'Moon-forming' circumplanetary disk discovered in distant star system

Astronomers have made the first-ever observations of a circumplanetary disk around PDS 70, a young star located 370 light-years from Earth. The ALMA data provide compelling evidence for the existence of multiple moons in the system, with two Jupiter-like planets and a potential third planet on its own orbit.

On-demand control of terahertz and infrared waves

Graphene's ability to control infrared and terahertz waves using magnetic fields has been confirmed experimentally, opening up new possibilities for opto-electronics, telecommunications, and medical diagnostics. The research also shows that graphene can be used to observe molecular chirality and search for life on exoplanets.

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.

Hubble captures the galaxy's biggest ongoing stellar fireworks show

Astronomers have discovered a large amount of warm gas ejected in the Great Eruption of Eta Carinae, revealing an astonishingly different ultraviolet-light image. The newly revealed gas is important for understanding how the eruption began and could be used to study other stars and gaseous nebulas.

Research details response of sagebrush to 2017 solar eclipse

Research reveals sagebrush's response to 2017 solar eclipse showed significant reductions in photosynthesis and transpiration. The study also found that the circadian rhythm was interrupted by sudden changes in sunlight, triggering a response beyond what happens when clouds block sunlight.

NIST infrared frequency comb measures biological signatures

Researchers at NIST have created a compact apparatus that rapidly measures the entire infrared band of light to detect biological, chemical, and physical properties of matter. The system successfully detects signature vibrations of amide bands in a monoclonal antibody reference material, providing insights into protein structure.

LED device could increase memory retention among astronauts

Researchers are developing a light-based technology to increase energy available to brain cells and improve astronaut performance. The new LED device aims to replace lasers as the delivery method for near-infrared light to stimulate mitochondria and create more oxygen in the brain.

Hubble spies curious galaxy moving a little closer

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured an image of the galaxy Messier 90, which is moving towards the Milky Way at a speed of approximately 60 million light-years. This rare phenomenon is known as blueshift, where the galaxy's light is compressed and shifted towards the blue end of the spectrum.

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.

Energy-free superfast computing invented by scientists using light pulses

Researchers at Lancaster University developed a method to record computer data using magnets and light pulses, reducing energy consumption. The new approach uses ultrashort pulses of light concentrated by special antennas on top of a magnet to switch the orientation of tiny magnets in magnetic hard-drives.

Optical security: Tunable-resonator upconverted emission color printing

Scientists from SUTD have developed a plasmonic upconversion optical security device that displays an ultrahigh resolution color print under white light, while revealing different luminescent information under infrared illumination. The device uses monolayers of upconversion nanophosphors to achieve true color printing.

New clues about how ancient galaxies lit up the universe

New observations using NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope reveal that some of the earliest galaxies in the Universe were significantly brighter than anticipated. The excess light suggests that these galaxies released high amounts of ionising radiation, which may have played a key role in the Epoch of Reionisation.

NASA examines Tropical Cyclone Kenneth in infrared light

Scientists study cloud top temperatures and identify strongest storms around the center of circulation and in a band of thunderstorms southwest of the center. The satellite data reveals cold cloud tops, indicating powerful storms with high rainfall potential.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Energy-saving new LED phosphor

Chemists at the University of Innsbruck have created a novel red phosphor called SALON, which emits light in the visible red range and reduces energy loss. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient white LEDs with improved color quality.

How light triggers brain activity

The discovery of channelrhodopsin-2 reveals two parallel paths in the activation of the ion channel by light, allowing for optimized applications in optogenetics. This understanding could lead to treatments for blind individuals and patients with agitated paralysis in Parkinson's disease.

Photonics: The curious case of the disappearing cylinders

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a way to make submicron-sized cylinders disappear using optical frequency illumination. This breakthrough could lead to new kinds of detectors and sensors for the medical and aerospace industries, without the need for expensive metamaterial coatings.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Detecting pollution with a compact laser source

Researchers at EPFL have developed a new compact laser source that can detect greenhouse gases and molecules in a person's breath. The system uses a fiber laser combined with a micrometer waveguide chip to generate light waves in the mid-infrared spectrum, retaining 30% of the original signal strength.

Breakthrough could enable cheaper infrared cameras

A new method for making infrared cameras using quantum dots offers faster production and better performance. This technology could enable the use of infrared cameras in autonomous vehicles, smartphones, and other devices, improving their ability to detect heat signatures and see through smoke and fog.

'Radiance Light Trends' shows changes in Earth's light emissions

A new web application called Radiance Light Trends allows anyone to analyze satellite data on light emissions since 1992, tracking changes in regions like Berlin and the Tucson International Airport. The app provides valuable insights into the causes of these changes, including energy-saving measures and greenhouse lighting.

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.

Nanotechnology and sunlight clear the way for better visibility

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new transparent material coating that greatly reduces fogging on eyewear, cameras, and windshields. The coating absorbs infrared sunlight and converts it into heat, preventing fogging by heating the surface up to 3-4 degrees Celsius.

Drying without dying: How resurrection plants survive without water

Researchers discovered that resurrection plants control their water structure to survive dehydration by accumulating water molecular dimers and molecules with 4 hydrogen bonds. This regulation allows them to preserve tissues against dehydration-induced damages, enabling survival in dry states.

UMMS scientists develop technology to give night vision to mammals

Researchers at UMass Medical School have developed a technology that allows mammals to see infrared light using nanoantennae injections. The temporary vision enhancement enables animals to perceive near-infrared patterns and shapes without interfering with their visible light ability.

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.

Nanotechnology makes it possible for mice to see in infrared

Scientists have developed a nanotechnology that enables mice to see infrared light, opening the door for potential applications in civilian encryption, security, and military operations. The technology involves injecting nanoparticles into the mouse's eyes, which capture infrared wavelengths and emit shorter visible light wavelengths.

NASA catches Tropical Cyclone Pola near Fiji

Tropical Cyclone Pola was passing near Fiji when NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed the storm in infrared light, finding cloud top temperatures getting colder. Colder cloud tops indicate a strengthening storm with strong thunderstorms capable of creating heavy rain.

NASA-NOAA satellite analyzes Typhoon Wutip

Typhoon Wutip's eye is located about 105 miles north of Faraulep and 230 miles south of Guam, moving northwest at 15 mph. Cloud top temperatures as cold as or colder than 70F/56.6C indicate heavy rainfall potential.

UH chemist earns CAREER award for work in luminescence

University of Houston chemist Thomas Teets tackles three topics: blue light-emitting compounds, near-infrared spectra, and photocatalysts for organic synthesis. He also leads educational projects to introduce children and art enthusiasts to the chemistry of light.

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.

Running an LED in reverse could cool future computers

Researchers used reverse-biased LEDs to cool devices by harnessing thermal radiation, a concept commonly used in battery operation. This approach could lead to new solid-state cooling technology for microprocessors, enabling faster and more efficient computing.

Laser physics: Transformation through light

Researchers have taken snapshots of how C60 carbon molecules react to extremely short pulses of intense infrared light, transforming its shape from round to elongated. The findings may lead to new applications in ultrafast, light-controlled electronics.

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.

UC Riverside physicists create exotic electron liquid

Physicists at UC Riverside created the first production of an electron liquid at room temperature, opening the way for new optoelectronic devices and basic physics studies. The achievement could lead to development of efficient terahertz devices for applications such as cancer detection and space communications.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Harnessing light for a solar-powered chemical industry

Researchers at RMIT University developed a nano-enhanced material that captures 99% of light and converts it into chemical energy, offering a sustainable alternative for the chemical manufacturing industry. The innovation has potential applications in desalination, night vision technology, and producing valuable chemicals.

Velcro for human cells

Scientists have developed a novel optogenetic system that allows for precise control of integrin-mediated adhesion in human cells using light. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize cancer therapy and regenerative medicine by enabling targeted manipulation of cell-matrix interactions.

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.

More stable light comes from intentionally 'squashed' quantum dots

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory developed a new method to intentionally 'squash' colloidal quantum dots, creating dots capable of stable, blink-free light emission. This approach suppresses spectral fluctuations in single-dot emission and results in spectrally narrow light with highly stable intensity.

Cosmic telescope zooms in on the beginning of time

Astronomers have detected a distant quasar from the early universe using Gemini Observatory, which provides critical insights into the formation of galaxies. The quasar is fueled by a supermassive black hole at its center, with mass 700 million times that of our Sun.

Newly discovered adolescent star seen undergoing 'growth spurt'

Astronomers have discovered a young star, Gaia 17bpi, undergoing a rare 'growth spurt' - a FU Ori stellar outburst. The event reveals insights into the development of these distant stellar objects and helps solve longstanding mysteries surrounding star formation.

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.

Novel laser technology for microchip-size chemical sensors

Researchers at TU Wien develop a patent-pending technology to create frequency combs on a single chip, enabling chemical analysis in tiny spaces. The system can detect various chemical substances and is robust against disturbances, making it perfect for practical applications.

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.

NASA's Fermi traces the history of starlight across cosmos

Scientists used data from NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope to measure all starlight produced over 90% of the universe's history. This analysis provides a reference for future missions exploring stellar evolution and confirms previous measurements of star-formation rates.

NRL demonstrates new non-mechanical laser steering technology

Scientists at NRL have developed a chip-based beam steering technology that steers laser light in two dimensions without mechanical devices, offering improved steering capability and higher scan speed rates. The new technology has potential applications in chemical sensing, monitoring emissions, and other industrial facilities.

Stealth-cap technology for light-emitting nanoparticles

Researchers developed stealth-cap technology to increase stability and biocompatibility of light-transducing nanoparticles. The new nanoparticles are water-soluble, stable in complex body fluids, and can store medications like cancer drugs.

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.

See-through film rejects 70 percent of incoming solar heat

Researchers at MIT have developed a heat-rejecting film that can be applied to windows to reflect up to 70% of the sun's incoming heat. This innovative material could significantly reduce air conditioning costs and energy consumption, particularly in hot cities like Hong Kong.

Skin-like sensor maps blood-oxygen levels anywhere in the body

A new flexible sensor maps blood-oxygen levels over large areas of skin and organs, allowing for real-time monitoring of healing wounds. This innovation could benefit patients with diabetes, respiration diseases, and sleep apnea by tracking blood-oxygen levels 24/7.

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.

Trapping atoms, not space ships, with tractor beams

University of Adelaide researchers have created a powerful tractor beam that traps atoms in a microscopic hole at the center of an optical fiber. This breakthrough opens up new opportunities for quantum experiments and secure communications.

Researchers discover directional and long-lived nanolight in a 2D material

An international team of researchers has discovered ultra-confined infrared polaritons that propagate only in specific directions along thin slabs of molybdenum trioxide. The polaritons live for an exceptionally long time, up to 20 picoseconds, and could enable the development of more efficient nanophotonic devices.

NASA's Aqua satellite sees Hurricane Michael strengthening

Hurricane Michael continues to strengthen with maximum sustained winds reaching near 100 mph, forecasters predict a major hurricane upon landfall in Florida. The storm's center is expected to move across the eastern Gulf of Mexico and inland over the Florida Panhandle on Wednesday.