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New process builds electronic function into optical fiber

A team from Penn State University and the University of Southampton has developed a new way to combine semiconductor devices with microstructured optical fibers. The resulting ability to generate and manipulate signals inside optical fibers could have applications in fields such as medicine, computing, and remote sensing devices.

'Frequency comb' spectroscopy proves to be powerful chemical analysis tool

Physicists at JILA have developed a highly sensitive tool for real-time analysis of atoms and molecules, offering unprecedented capabilities in chemistry laboratories, environmental monitoring, security, and medical offices. The technology uses an ultrafast laser-based frequency comb to precisely measure light absorption signatures, en...

Experimental atomic clock uses ytterbium 'pancakes'

Scientists at NIST have developed an experimental atomic clock using ytterbium 'pancakes' that could be more stable and accurate than current time standards. The new design holds thousands of atoms in a lattice made of intersecting laser beams, which is also applicable to other atoms with even-numbered atomic masses.

New material means 'x-ray specs' no longer required

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new transparent material that can amplify light without the need for population inversion, a fundamental property of laser technology. This breakthrough has significant implications for secure information networks, allowing for undisturbed transmission of light signals.

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.

NIST method may help optimize light-emitting semiconductors

Researchers at JILA use a novel laser technique to study semiconductor materials, revealing correlated oscillations that can aid in predicting emission frequencies. The approach, developed for probing molecular structure, offers new insights into electronic properties of semiconductors.

Enhanced LIDAR improves range, vibration measures

Scientists at NIST have developed an improved LIDAR system using a frequency comb to measure distance and vibration with high precision. The system resolves common problems with signal noise and dispersion, enabling accurate measurements of up to 1 kilometer away.

Engineers develop smallest device to control light, advance silicon technology

A team of researchers at the University of Texas at Austin has created a miniaturized silicon chip that can control laser light, enabling faster data transfer rates in high-performance computing devices. The chip uses silicon photonic crystals to slow down light travel, allowing for modulated transmission of information.

New insights into massive black hole: UCLA astronomy

A team of researchers from UCLA has discovered a group of over 30 young stars near a supermassive black hole, contradicting the idea that such an environment should prevent star formation. The stars' orbits suggest they formed in a massive star cluster and migrated towards the black hole.

Experiments help explain mysterious 'floppy' space molecule

A laboratory method has revealed new data on a mysterious 'floppy' molecule, helping explain its properties and overcoming a decades-old challenge in chemistry. The study combined experiments with theoretical predictions and enabled the analysis of cold, concentrated samples of the molecule.

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.

'Long' distances measured with picometer accuracy

A new laser-based method for measuring millimeter distances has been developed and demonstrated by a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The technique measures frequency rather than wavelength, achieving an uncertainty of 10 picometers.

Student scientists create living bacterial photographs

Students created living bacterial photographs by projecting light onto genetically engineered E. coli bacteria, which produced pigments based on light exposure. This innovative technology has potential applications in fields such as medical treatments and tissue engineering.

The impossible is possible: Laser light from silicon

Brown University researchers have created a directly pumped silicon laser by altering its atomic structure using nanoscale drilling. The achievement opens up new possibilities for the electronics and communications industries, enabling faster and more powerful computers or fiber optic networks.

NASA'S ICESat: One billion elevations served

ICESat measures polar ice sheets, clouds, mountains, and forests with three lasers, enabling scientists to see objects in three dimensions. The Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS) instrument has fired its one billionth shot, collecting detailed information on the vertical structure of the Earth system.

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.

Quantum chaos

Scientists have found experimental evidence of quantum chaos in a system with freely dispersing components. The researchers replicated an historical experiment, demonstrating photoelectric effect and observing Ericson fluctuations.

Stanford innovation helps 'enlighten' silicon chips

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new type of silicon-based modulator that can enable high-speed light connections between chips. This innovation could pave the way for faster data transfer rates and improve performance in computing hardware.

Near infrared laser device can measure brain oxygen levels

A new near-infrared laser device can measure brain oxygen levels with high accuracy and non-invasively, providing real-time information to protect the brain from reduced oxygen levels. This technology has the potential to improve outcomes for patients undergoing cardiac surgeries.

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.

Ultrafast lasers take 'snapshots' as atoms collide

Researchers at JILA use laser pulses to take snapshots of atom collisions, revealing how atoms briefly lose form and energy when colliding. The results provide new insights into atomic dynamics and the laws of physics.

Atoms under control

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have cooled single rubidium atoms in an optical resonator for up to 17 seconds, a record-breaking achievement. This milestone demonstrates the potential of atomic manipulation for quantum computing applications.

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.

NIST/JILA fellow Jan Hall shares 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics

Jan Hall, a scientist emeritus at NIST and JILA fellow, was awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics alongside Theodor W. Hänsch for their contributions to laser-based precision spectroscopy. Their work enabled precise control of light frequencies, leading to breakthroughs in science, technology, and navigation.

Finalists in young scholars competition announced

The competition focuses on exploring innovative research in physics and astronomy, with a focus on deep discoveries about reality and technological innovations. The 18 finalists will present their research papers at a special session in October, with nine prizes awarded based on outstanding merit.

APS physics tip sheet #51

Researchers have achieved a record-breaking stop of light for over one second using electromagnetically induced transparency. A new model clarifying the mathematical basis for diversity in Darwinian evolution has been developed, suggesting that related species emerging from a common ancestor can quickly evolve in different directions.

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.

Compact JILA system stabilizes laser frequency

Researchers at NIST developed a compact, vertically mounted cavity that eliminates vibrations, allowing for stable laser light with minimal environmental disturbances. The new design outperforms previous systems in size and cost, enabling widespread adoption of precise optical technologies.

Watching the birth and death of exotic molecules

Scientists observed a chemical reaction in liquid methanol after hitting a molecule with a short laser pulse. The research confirms a long-standing hypothesis regarding the evolution of the molecule, providing new insights into chemical reactions in liquids.

New infrared tool measures silicon wafer thickness

A new NIST-developed instrument uses infrared laser light to accurately measure silicon wafer thickness, enabling precise nanoscale dimension measurements. The Improved Infrared Interferometer can produce detailed spatial maps of differences in thickness with high repeatability.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New NIST method improves accuracy of spectrometers

The NIST method corrects stray light errors in spectrometers, enabling accurate measurements of low-power radiation components and large dynamic intensity ranges. The new method has been implemented and validated using a commercial spectrograph, allowing real-time corrections without significant speed reduction.

Holographic movies show promise for medical, military applications

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a holographic video system with potential applications in medical visualization, such as improved diagnosis of ailments like heart disease. The technology also has military uses, including heads-up displays for helmets and coordinating battlefield information.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Nanoscale switch links electronics to photonics

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a silicon device that can modulate light on a micrometer scale, enabling the integration of electronics and photonics. The device uses a ring resonator to filter out specific wavelengths of light, allowing for efficient switching between states.

World's first UV 'ruler' sizes up atomic world

Researchers have created a high-resolution ultraviolet light source that enables precise energy level measurements of specific atoms, timing of chemical reactions, and nanometer-scale object dimensions.

Green laser pointer can cause eye damage

Mayo Clinic researchers found that green laser pointers can cause irreversible damage to the retina's pigment layer. Longer exposures and higher-powered lasers increase the risk of vision damage.

New tool reveals secrets of migrating cells

Researchers have developed a new tool that allows them to visualize cells in real-time, revealing details about their movement and behavior. The technique, called two-photon laser-scanning microscopy, has provided insights into the goal-oriented migration of activated T cells and the random wanderings of immature T cells.

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.

Future computer: Atoms packed in an 'egg carton' of light?

Researchers have created an 'egg carton' of light with tiny holes that can contain single atoms, a crucial step towards making quantum computing more practical. The design enables faster computing than traditional chips and has potential applications in fields like astrophysics, genetics, and materials science.

Terrorist-proof buildings from new high-tech sensors

Scientists have developed a new breed of fibre-optic sensors that can measure strain, detect movements, and monitor blast-waves with high accuracy. These sensors promise to revolutionize safety monitoring in various industries.

Yale researchers use laser light to remote control flies

Researchers at Yale University have developed a method to remotely control fly behavior using laser light, demonstrating a direct link between specific neurons and behaviors. The technique involves genetically engineered 'phototriggers' that respond to light pulses, allowing for non-invasive control of neural activity.

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.

Forsyth scientists find blue light fights gum disease culprits

Researchers discovered that blue light can rapidly kill certain oral bacteria associated with periodontitis, and may restore a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth. A handheld device using this technology is being developed to combat periodontal disease.

Noisy pictures tell a story of 'entangled' atoms, JILA physicists find

Researchers at JILA used noise patterns in images of ultracold potassium clouds to visualize entangled atom pairs, shedding light on a key phenomenon in quantum physics. The discovery could have implications for the development of quantum computers and highly sensitive measurement techniques.

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.

Harvard, Texas A&M scientists develop new laser

Researchers have created a novel Raman laser that combines the pump source and material into a single device, enhancing efficiency by 30% and reducing size. The 'matryoshka' design enables tuning of the pump laser radiation to strong electronic resonance in the material, boosting gain by five orders of magnitude.

Light therapy may combat fungal infections, new evidence suggests

A new study found that light therapy, combined with anti-fungal treatments, can effectively combat various fungal infections, particularly those affecting the skin or nails. The research also sheds light on early fungal evolution and the role of light in fungal development.

X-rays have become laser-like

Austrian-German collaboration creates laser-like X-rays with a compact laboratory apparatus, breaking the nanometer barrier. The technology has the potential to improve X-ray imaging in biology and medicine, enabling early-stage cancer diagnosis at reduced risk and higher resolution.

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.

New lensless imaging technique opens door to nanoscale world

A new lensless imaging technique has been demonstrated, allowing for direct imaging of ultra-fast changes in the collective behavior of atoms and molecules at the nanoscale. The technique uses coherent X-ray light to achieve 10 times better spatial resolution than current methods.

Quantum memory for light

Researchers successfully transfer the quantum state of a light pulse onto a set of atoms, demonstrating quantum memory. The experiment achieved a 70% coincidence rate, which is higher than what can be obtained by measuring the polarization of the photons directly.

Scientists develop 'electronic eye' for the blind

Researchers have created a system that detects pedestrian crossings in front of a person using a single camera, measuring road width and traffic light color to ensure safe crossing. The device uses projective geometry and 'projective invariant' calculation to accurately detect crossings in images.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Ultrafast laser speeds up quest for atomic control

Researchers at JILA have developed an efficient method to measure and control atomic energy levels with extremely high accuracy. The technique uses ultrafast pulses of laser light to record in real-time the energy required to boost atoms' outer electrons, enabling fine-tuning with lower power lasers.

Shedding light on a microscopic world

LSU Assistant Professor Mette B. Gaarde has been awarded a National Science Foundation CAREER Award for her groundbreaking research on attosecond pulses of light. These pulses, produced in the interaction between intense laser pulses and atoms, can capture electrons as they rearrange during chemical bonding events.

New transistor laser could lead to faster signal processing

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new transistor laser that can emit a narrow, coherent beam. This technology has the potential to facilitate faster signal processing, higher speed devices and large-capacity seamless communications.

Designing an ultrasensitive 'optical nose' for chemicals

Physicists at NIST create an optical nose technique that can identify a single atom or molecule in gas samples with minute concentrations. The method uses infrared laser beams and mirrors to detect gases at very low pressures and varying frequencies.

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.

Stimulating nerve cells with laser precision

Scientists at Vanderbilt University have discovered that low-intensity infrared laser light can spark specific nerves to life, exciting a leg or even individual toes without touching the nerve cells. The technique offers greater precision and accuracy than conventional electrical stimulation.

LASER technology helps track changes in Mount St. Helens

Scientists used airborne LIDAR to map the dimensions of Mount St. Helens' uplift, creating detailed models to forecast volcanic hazards. The analysis revealed 5.3 million cubic meters of volume change in the area of uplift, confirming photogrammetric measurements.

Researchers guide light through liquids and gases on a chip

Scientists at UC Santa Cruz have successfully guided light waves through liquids and gases using novel waveguides made from silicon fabrication technology. The device enables detection of molecular fluorescence and has potential applications in fields such as chemistry, biology, and quantum optics.

Laser wakefield acceleration: Channeling the best beams ever

Researchers at Berkeley Lab develop a technique to channel laser-powered plasma waves, creating high-quality beams with particles over 80 MeV in energy. By optimizing plasma channel conditions and laser parameters, they achieve unprecedented beam intensity and suppress electron capture.

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.

Researchers use semiconductors to set speed limit on light

Scientists have successfully slowed down the group velocity of light in semiconductors, achieving speeds of about 6 miles per second. This breakthrough could lead to faster optical networks and higher performance communications, enabling applications like 3-D graphics transmission and high-resolution video conferencing.