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A novel path for sustainable photon upconversion with non-precious metals

Researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have achieved a breakthrough in using chromium compounds for efficient green-to-blue photon upconversion. This process can expand the use of low-energy sunlight in solar cells and photochemical reactions, reducing environmental impacts associated with rare metal extraction.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 3, 2022

Secrets of tree hyraxes in Kenya uncovered with new research techniques

Researchers from the University of Helsinki used new techniques to observe tree hyraxes in Kenya's Taita Hills, finding that they are social animals with specific habitat preferences. The study estimated a population size of no more than 2,000–4,000 individuals, shedding light on the behavior and conservation of these unique mammals.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 25, 2022

Light-based therapies achieve good results in rehabilitation of patients with post-COVID complications

Researchers have found that light-based therapies such as photobiomodulation and photodynamics can effectively treat a range of post-COVID complications, including muscle and joint damage. The studies, conducted in Brazil, utilized laser irradiation, negative pressure, and other technologies to improve symptoms and promote healing.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalLaser Physics Letters·DateMay 24, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Diamond mirrors for high-powered lasers

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a single-material diamond mirror that withstood a 10-kilowatt Navy laser without damage. The mirror's unique nanostructure design makes it 98.9% reflective, potentially enabling more robust high-power lasers for various applications.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 2022

The missing piece to faster, cheaper and more accurate 3D mapping

A new method for 3D mapping uses artificial intelligence to detect correspondences and correct gaps in laser-point clouds, eliminating the need for manual data corrections. This approach enables faster, cheaper, and more accurate maps, with potential applications in construction, climate change monitoring, and road safety.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 19, 2022

Shedding light on turbulence with wave-optics simulations

Researchers conducted wave-optics simulations to study the impact of turbulence on light beams, finding that branch point density grows non-linearly with grid resolution. The study's results could lead to more accurate modeling and improved performance in Adaptive Optics systems.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMay 18, 2022
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 approach may help clear hurdle to large-scale quantum computing

A Harvard-led team created a new method for processing quantum information that allows for the dynamic change of atoms' layout during computation, expanding capabilities and enabling self-correction of errors. This approach uses entanglement to connect atoms remotely and can process exponentially large amounts of information.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2022

First integrated laser on lithium niobate chip

Harvard researchers have successfully integrated a high-power laser onto a lithium niobate chip, a major breakthrough in the development of high-performance chip-scale optical systems. The integration enables the creation of fully integrated spectrometers, optical remote sensing, and efficient frequency conversion for quantum networks.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateApr 8, 2022

Genetically modified proteins convert carbon nanotube to programmable optoelectronic device

Researchers developed a full-function bioelectronic photocell using genetically modified proteins attached to a carbon nanotube. The system can change its electronic properties in response to light, operating as a spotlight or memory cell. This discovery opens the door to environmentally friendly electronic elements, memory devices, an...

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 30, 2022
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.

Stanford engineers enable simple cameras to see in 3D

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new approach to enable standard image sensors to capture light in three dimensions. The system uses acoustic resonance and piezoelectric properties of lithium niobate to modulate light, allowing for high-performance lidar capabilities in compact devices.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2022

Researchers unravel the inner workings of heat conduction in galaxy clusters

A team of researchers used the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to create a laboratory replica of galaxy-cluster plasmas, discovering strong suppression of heat conduction in these turbulent environments. The experiments provide insight into complex physics processes and raise additional questions that may be answered in future studies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

Using raw materials more sustainably

Scientists elucidated the structures at the interface between a working catalyst and reacting molecules in vanadium pentoxide, revealing which oxygen atoms activate hydrocarbons. The study showed that temperature and gas composition influence the reaction, leading to more sustainable oxidation processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Controlling how fast graphene cools down

Researchers have demonstrated control of graphene's relaxation time, allowing for novel functionalities in devices such as light detectors and modulators. This work paves the way for the development of ultrafast optical devices with potential applications in photonics and telecommunications.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalACS Nano·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Tiny probes could sail to outer planets with the help of low-power lasers

Researchers calculate that low-power lasers on Earth could launch and maneuver small probes equipped with silicon or boron nitride sails, propelling them to much faster speeds than rocket engines. The lasers could propel tiny sailed probes on interplanetary or interstellar missions without requiring large amounts of fuel.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 23, 2022

Ultraprecise atomic clock poised for new physics discoveries

Researchers at UW-Madison have developed an ultra-precise atomic clock that can measure time differences to a precision equivalent to losing one second every 300 billion years. By using a 'multiplexed' optical clock design, the team was able to test ways to search for gravitational waves and detect dark matter with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Tiny antenna enables portable biomedical, food-analysis, and other gadgets driven by integrated nano- and terahertz technologies

Researchers have designed a tiny and flat antenna for receiving and transmitting terahertz signals, enabling the miniaturization of THz devices. The new design integrates the antenna with the system, eliminating the need for bulky silicon lenses and reducing optical power required.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 9, 2022

Strobe light for 5G: NIST imaging system spotlights the tiny mechanical hearts at the core of every cellphone

Researchers at NIST developed an instrument to image acoustic waves over a wide range of frequencies with unprecedented detail. The new instrument captures these waves by relying on an optical interferometer, allowing for the creation of three-dimensional movies of microresonators' vibrational modes.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 4, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

A new amplifying technique for weak and noisy signals

Researchers at INRS developed a method to amplify weak optical signals while reducing noise content using the Talbot self-imaging effect. This technique has potential applications in various fields like telecommunications, bioimaging, and remote sensing.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalOptica·DateFeb 2, 2022

New approach transports trapped ions to create entangling gates

Scientists at Georgia Tech Research Institute have demonstrated a new approach for transporting trapped ion pairs through a single laser beam to create entangled qubits. This method reduces the need for multiple optical switches and complex controls, potentially simplifying quantum systems.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2022

Physical systems perform machine-learning computations

Cornell researchers have successfully trained various physical systems, including mechanical, optical, and electrical systems, to perform machine learning tasks. The developed training algorithm enables diverse systems to be chained together for efficient processing.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2022

Harnessing noise in optical computing for AI

A team at the University of Washington has created an optical computing system that not only reduces noise but also utilizes it to improve creative output. The system uses a Generative Adversarial Network and demonstrates the viability of this technology at a large scale.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 21, 2022
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.

When graphene speaks, scientists can now listen

Researchers have developed a method to analyze audio from graphene production, allowing for near-instantaneous assessment of product type and purity. This approach could improve manufacturing processes, such as flash Joule heating and sintering, by providing real-time data on material properties.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

UH engineers discover method to create upward water fountain in deep water

University of Houston engineers Jiming Bao and Feng Lin create upward fountains in deep water by shining laser beams on the surface, attributing the phenomenon to the Marangoni effect. The discovery has potential applications in lithography, 3D printing, heat transfer, and microfluidics.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalMaterials Today Physics·DateJan 18, 2022

Review on the femtosecond laser precision micro/nano-engineering

Femtosecond laser precision engineering enables micro/nano-structure creation with high resolution and dry processing. Key challenges include achieving small heat affected zones and ensuring sufficient processing speeds for industrial needs.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 3, 2021

Harvard-led researchers document the presence of quantum spin liquids, a never-before-seen state of matter

Researchers at Harvard have successfully observed quantum spin liquids, a previously unseen state of matter that has been elusive for nearly 50 years. By manipulating ultracold atoms in a programmable quantum simulator, the team was able to create and study this exotic state, which holds promise for advancing quantum technologies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
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.

Molding, patterning and driving liquids with light

A new fluid has been created that can be molded and patterned using light, with potential applications in adaptive optics, mass transport, and microfluidics manufacturing. The fluid's surface tension is dependent on temperature, making it susceptible to laser manipulation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalMaterials Today·DateNov 29, 2021

Ultrashort-pulse lasers kill bacterial superbugs, spores

Researchers have found that ultrashort-pulse lasers can inactivate antibiotic-resistant bacteria and bacterial spores, reducing their numbers by over 1,000 times. The technology has the potential to be used to sterilize wounds and disinfect blood products, and may also be used to treat bloodstream infections.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Moving closer to a simple and efficient method of quantum encryption

A team of researchers has developed a simple and efficient method of quantum encryption using single photons, which can detect any attempt to hack the message. The breakthrough brings us closer to securing our data against quantum computers' potential attacks.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021
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.

A novel way to generate visible light

A research team led by Professor Luca Razzari at INRS has successfully generated coherent, intense visible light pulses with femtosecond duration using a simplified setup. This innovation opens up new possibilities for studying various phenomena in physics, chemistry, and biology.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 29, 2021

New synthesis process paves way for more efficient lasers, LEDs

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new synthesis process that increases the number of holes in p-type III-nitride semiconductor materials, leading to more efficient LEDs and lasers. This breakthrough could also help address the long-lasting problem called the 'green gap' in LED technology.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2021

Metamaterial eENZ can control correlations of light

A team at Tampere University has created a metamaterial eENZ mirror that can control the correlation properties of light, switching between high and low correlation states. By manipulating polarization, they achieve near-perfect coherence switching.

SourceTampere University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2021
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.

The nanophotonics orchestra presents: Twisting to the light of nanoparticles

Physicists at the University of Bath have found a way to reveal the forbidden colours of light in twisted nanoparticles, opening up new possibilities for emerging nanotechnologies. This discovery has implications for communications, nanorobotics and ultra-thin optical components.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Lasers light up neutron generation for radiography

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a laser-driven neutron source that can generate fast neutrons in short bursts, enabling rapid imaging. The technique was used to detect hazardous substances in batteries and images materials like boron carbide.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

For good measure: A virtual ruler estimates the size of colorectal polyps

Researchers developed a method to overlay a virtual scale on acquired endoscope images in real-time, allowing accurate estimation of colorectal polyp sizes. The approach uses triangulation principles and minimal image processing, enabling cost-effective diagnosis without adding extra instrumentation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

Testing 1-2: New laser-based microphone calibration measures up

Researchers at NIST demonstrate a faster and more accurate way to calibrate microphones using lasers. The new technique surpasses the current industry standard, offering potential for commercial applications in industries like factories and power plants.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJASA Express Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021
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.

Pulsed lasers in liquids speed up hunt for effective catalysts

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new method using pulsed lasers in liquids to create nanoparticles that can be easily tested for use as catalysts. This technique accelerates the process of discovering effective catalysts, which is crucial for producing essential materials and clean fuels.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalChemical Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 2, 2021

Watching the ultrafast dance moves of a laser plasma

Researchers at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research developed a novel method to capture ultrafast motion of plasma at different transverse locations. The team's experiment shows that different portions of the plasma move in and out at different times, contrary to previous expectations.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 16, 2021
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.

Harvard-led physicists take big step in race to quantum computing

Researchers have developed a programmable quantum simulator capable of operating with 256 qubits, a significant advancement in the field of quantum computing. The system enables the study of complex quantum processes and has already allowed for the observation of exotic quantum states of matter.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2021

Attomolar sensing: Fabrication of surface-enhanced raman scattering substrate

Researchers developed sensitive SERS substrates via femtosecond laser processing for real-time sensing in biomedicine and microfluidic chips. Attomolar detection capabilities were achieved through synergistic enhancement effects, opening up new avenues for monitoring and sensing applications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJun 27, 2021

Cooling LIGO's mirrors to near quantum ground state

Researchers have demonstrated cooling a large-scale object to nearly the motional quantum ground state, increasing sensitivity in detecting gravitational waves. The method achieved an average phonon occupation of 10.8, suppressing quantum back-action noise by 11 orders of magnitude.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 17, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Nanomaterials with laser printing

Researchers develop a laser-driven method to synthesize nanoparticles, enabling efficient conversion of solar energy into electricity. The technology also promotes the production of green hydrogen by employing photoelectrodes that use sunlight directly.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

Shaken, not stirred: Reshuffling skyrmions ultrafast

Researchers at Max Born Institute created and annihilated skyrmions using laser pulses, demonstrating precise control over their density. The process has potential for use in stochastic computing, enabling fast and energy-efficient data storage and processing.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 12, 2021

Realization of the highest laser intensity ever reached

Researchers at CoReLS have realized the highest laser intensity ever reached, exceeding 1023 W/cm2. This achievement allows for the exploration of extreme physical conditions and novel physical phenomena, such as Compton scattering and photon-photon scattering in nonlinear regimes.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalOptica·DateMay 6, 2021
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.

Army-funded research paves way for improved lasers, communications

Researchers designed and built two-dimensional arrays of closely packed micro-lasers that achieve power density orders of magnitude higher, paving the way for improved lasers, high-speed computing, and optical communications. The breakthrough enables single-mode lasing with enhanced emission power and increased coherence.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Laser lights the way

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new way to observe laser interactions, enabling accurate control over laser-based manufacturing processes. The discovery could lead to significant improvements in precision and efficiency in industries such as laboratory, commercial, and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMar 29, 2021
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.

Finding high-Q resonant modes in a dielectric nanocavity

A research team developed a straightforward method to find high-Q modes in single dielectric nanocavities. They discovered high-Q modes using Mie mode engineering and avoided crossing, resulting in improved photonic device performance and applications.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 22, 2021

Simultaneous multicontrast OR-PAM from single laser source

Researchers developed a multiwavelength OR-PAM system based on a single laser source, enabling simultaneous multicontrast imaging of hemoglobin concentration, blood flow speed, blood oxygen saturation, and lymphatic concentration. This innovation shortens imaging time and improves accuracy for functional imaging in biological tissues.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 11, 2021
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.

Tracking cells with omnidirectional visible laser particles

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Peking University introduce a novel technique for tracking individual cells using omnidirectional visible laser particles. The innovative method reduces orientation-dependent intensity fluctuations, allowing for blinking-free tracking of single cells under complex biological conditions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 2, 2021