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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.

Viewing Earth from space at night: tracking our changing black marble

Researchers create algorithm VZA-COLD to reduce temporal variation in nighttime light data, enabling continuous global monitoring of human activity and behavior changes. This allows for timely detection of short-term changes, such as power outages after hurricanes or humanitarian efforts during wars.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Magnesium ions slow down water dynamics on short length scales

Researchers from the Max Born Institute found that magnesium ions reduce ultrafast fluctuations in water's hydration shell, slowing solvation dynamics. The study reveals a short-range effect of individual ion pairs on dilute aqueous systems.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalACS Physical Chemistry Au·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Looking at light radiation to halt viruses in their track

A new study explores the use of light radiation to disrupt viral functionalities and eliminate viruses, including HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2. The researchers reviewed rapid advances in physical irradiation methods for viral inactivation, showcasing recent validation experiments toward efficient viral elimination.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateSep 25, 2022

Excessive blue light from our gadgets may accelerate the aging process

A new study published in Frontiers found that excessive blue light exposure can alter cellular functions in fruit flies, potentially leading to accelerated aging. The researchers discovered changes in metabolites essential for cell function and communication between neurons.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New quantum technology combines free electrons and photons

Scientists from Göttingen and Lausanne successfully created electron-photon pairs in an electron microscope for the first time. This breakthrough enables researchers to harness free electrons and photons in a controlled manner.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2022

Smart lighting system based on quantum dots more accurately reproduces daylight

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a smart lighting system based on quantum dots, which can dynamically reproduce daylight conditions in a single light. The system achieves excellent color rendering, a wider operating range than current technology, and a wide spectrum of white light customization.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2022

Tiny motors take a big step forward

Researchers have successfully created the first solid-state optical nanomotor, overcoming previous limitations in real-world applications. The new motor can rotate on a solid substrate under light illumination, enabling it to serve as a fuel-free engine for various micro-/nano-electro-mechanical systems.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 12, 2022

Light travelling in a distorting medium can appear undistorted

A team of researchers has discovered a property of light that remains unchanged in complex media, allowing for distortion-free communication and sensing. By applying a novel quantum approach, they showed that all light has this invariant property, which can be exploited to correct distortions without losing any light.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 24, 2022
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.

Chung-Ang university researchers pioneer new way to manipulate microdroplets

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have pioneered a novel method for controlling microdroplet motion on solid surfaces using near-infrared light. This approach allows for more precise control than traditional thermal techniques and opens up new possibilities for applications in microfluidics, drug delivery, and self-cleaning surfaces.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2022

Robotic lightning bugs take flight

Researchers at MIT created insect-scale robots that can emit light during flight, allowing for precise motion tracking and potential communication between robots. The ability to emit light also enables the robots to call for help in search-and-rescue missions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJun 21, 2022

Researchers develop the world's first ultra-fast photonic computing processor using polarization

Scientists at the University of Oxford have created a new type of computing processor that uses light to process information, achieving speeds faster than traditional electronics. By leveraging multiple polarisation channels, the researchers increased computing density by several orders of magnitude, paving the way for more efficient p...

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

A novel all-optical switching method makes optical computing and communication systems more power-efficient

A novel all-optical switching method has been developed to make optical computing and communication systems more power-efficient. The method utilizes the quantum optical phenomenon of Enhancement of Index of Refraction (EIR) to achieve ultrafast switching times, ultralow threshold control power, and high switching efficiency.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
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.

A candlelight-like glow from a flexible organic LED

Scientists create a bendable organic LED with a mica backing that produces soft, warm light similar to candlelight, with minimal blue wavelength emissions. This device offers a potential solution for sleep-friendly lighting alternatives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateMay 24, 2022

Tiny infrared spectral filters for remote thermal sensing and imaging

New research develops a low-index BaF2 thin film-based microspectrometer technology for LWIR spectral sensing. The study demonstrates the use of flat and stress-free free-standing distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) for high-performance wavelength discrimination in the long-wave infrared region.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateMay 23, 2022

Rapid image reconstruction for real-time superresolution fluorescence microscopy

Researchers developed a novel algorithm, 'Joint Space and Frequency Reconstruction' (JSFR-SIM), to accelerate image reconstruction in optically sectioned superresolution structured illumination microscopy. The method achieves 80 times faster execution speed without compromising image quality.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateApr 12, 2022

Losing the cover of darkness

A study by researchers at the University of Plymouth reveals that energy-efficient broad spectrum lighting is reducing the efficacy of coastal species' camouflage. This can have significant impacts on visually guided ecological processes, with certain color variations being more vulnerable to detection.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022
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.

More sensitive X-ray imaging

Researchers at MIT have improved the efficiency of scintillators by up to tenfold and potentially even a hundredfold by creating nanoscale configurations. This could lead to better medical diagnostic X-rays, reduced dose exposure, and improved image quality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 24, 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
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.

How ultracold, superdense atoms become invisible

MIT physicists have observed the Pauli exclusion principle suppressing how a cloud of ultracold, superdense atoms scatter light. The effect, known as Pauli blocking, makes the atoms effectively transparent and invisible to photons.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 18, 2021

Simple silicon coating solves long-standing optical challenge

Researchers at Harvard SEAS developed a new silicon coating that counters chromatic dispersion in transparent materials like glass. The ultra-thin coating uses precisely designed silicon pillars to capture and re-emitting red light, allowing slower-moving blue light to catch up.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 2021

Why the world needs a better LED light bulb

Researchers have developed a new light-emitting material that doubles the intensity of existing LEDs while also being more energy-efficient. The material, cerium-doped zinc oxide, has the potential to be used in commercial LED lighting applications and could make lighting more affordable for households and businesses worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Luminescence·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 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 traffic light for light-on-a-chip

A team of researchers at EPFL and Purdue University has developed a magnetic-free optical isolator using integrated photonics and micro-electromechanical systems. This device can couple to and deflect light propagating in a waveguide, mimicking the effects of magnet-driven isolators without requiring magnetic fields.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 21, 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

Light can compute any desired linear transform without a digital processor

Researchers have developed an all-optical processor that uses spatially-engineered diffractive surfaces to compute arbitrary linear transforms, eliminating the need for digital processors. The processing speed is comparable to light propagation, and the system consumes no power except for illumination.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 28, 2021
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.

Capturing light: New ergonomic photodetector for the trillion-sensor era

Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a compact and robust optical sensor that can convert light to digital signals, suitable for flexible electronics. The new design architecture enables superior chip area efficiency and large-area scalability.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2021

Next-generation camera can better locate tumors

A next-generation camera can accurately identify tumor shape and location in human tissue by measuring time-differential signals from photons. This allows surgeons to ensure complete removal of cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, revolutionizing surgical procedures.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalOptica·DateSep 22, 2021

Compact amplifier could revolutionize optical communication

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a unique optical amplifier that offers high performance, is compact enough to integrate into a chip just millimeters in size, and does not generate excess noise. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize both space and fiber communication.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021

New quantum 'stopwatch' can improve imaging technologies

Researchers developed a precise stopwatch to count single photons, enhancing imaging technologies like forest mapping and disease diagnosis. The new time lens technology improves photon timing resolution by orders of magnitude.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalOptica·DateAug 24, 2021

Can the diffraction limit overcome in the linear imaging system?

Researchers develop chip-compatible 3D nanoscopy that surpasses the Abbe diffraction limit using a broadly-tunable large-spatial-frequency-shift effect. This method offers advantages over existing superresolution techniques, including high stability, low cost, and integration with microfluidic and optoelectronic functional chips.

SourceScience China Press·DateMay 13, 2021
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.

Novel e-skin achieves self-powered hippocampal neural stimulation

Scientists developed a novel self-powered e-skin capable of inducing a neural response, which can be controlled by photo illumination. The technology has potential applications in quantifying neural plasticity changes and developing novel neural-stimulation systems.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 12, 2019

Natural, nonbiological light-harvesting system on Earth

Researchers have discovered naturally occurring photocurrents in iron and manganese mineral coatings on rocks in China. These coatings exhibit stable photocurrents under steady illumination and rapid changes with illumination fluctuations, suggesting a potential role in biogeochemical processes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Virtual time-lapse photos can capture ultrafast phenomena

Scientists developed Virtual Frame Technique (VFT) to generate thousands of images of fast phenomena, using conventional photos from any device. VFT performs better than high-speed cameras and has been used for various applications, including droplet impacts and fracture mechanics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 13, 2019

Why screen time can disrupt sleep

Salk scientists discovered that melanopsin cells, responsible for regulating consciousness and sleep, respond to prolonged illumination, but can become desensitized. The study may lead to new treatments for migraines, insomnia, jet lag and circadian rhythm disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 2018
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.

Synchronized fluctuation-type art illumination developed, a world first!

Researchers at Osaka University have created a new form of art illumination that uses synchronized fluctuations in light to mimic natural rhythms, creating a unique and cozy setting. This technology has the potential to enhance quality of life by providing a more human-friendly and nature-inspired lighting solution.

SourceOsaka University·DateMar 26, 2018

New computational method introduced for lighting in computer graphics

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new computational method to address the challenge of computing realistic indirect illumination in real-time computer graphics. The novel method accurately computes indirect illumination using sparse radiance probes, enabling fast and accurate lighting simulations.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateNov 27, 2017

Can robots recognize faces even under backlighting?

A novel technique adapts image contrast to eliminate lighting effects, improving face recognition accuracy. The method uses an extended reflectance model with Fuzzy Inference System and Genetic Algorithm for real-time implementation.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalMachine Vision and Applications·DateJul 18, 2016

Improved microscopy technique reveals new insights into cell processes

Researchers have improved Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM) to achieve 62-nanometer resolution, reducing phototoxicity and improving imaging of proteins interacting. This breakthrough has provided new insights into cell processes, such as the role of actin in clathrin-mediated endocytosis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2015
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.

New night vision system reduces car accidents

A new electronic system created by researchers from the University of Granada improves driving ability at night using information extracted from night visors. The system makes intelligent cars more sophisticated by informing drivers about obstacles on the road.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalIEEE Transactions on Image Processing·DateSep 27, 2007

Color is in the eye of the beholder

A recent study examines the remarkable two-tone color of pumpkin seed oil using imaging and CIE chromaticity coordinates. The observed color shift from red to green is attributed to changes in oil layer thickness and unique human retina cell characteristics.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateJul 3, 2007

Bees solve complex colour puzzles

A new UCL study reveals that bees can recognize flowers under different global lights by segmenting scenes into regions of illumination and finding the correct flowers within each region. This strategy suggests that bees use color relationships between objects in a scene to resolve stimulus ambiguity, a challenge also faced by humans.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2005

Testing the fitness of biological clocks

A study by Vanderbilt University researchers reveals that biological clocks enhance the fitness of organisms by adapting to daily environmental changes. However, when illuminated constantly, these internal pacemakers become obsolete and can even hinder growth, according to the research.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 23, 2004
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Should people with diabetes sleep with the lights on?

A study found that people with type 2 diabetes experienced increased oscillatory potentials after dark adaptation, which decreased with oxygen inhalation. The researchers suggest that diabetic patients might benefit from a modified night-time illumination cycle during sleep to reduce oxygen consumption in the retina.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 27, 2002

Characteristic shadow painting by Raphael unintentional

Research by Margriet van Eikema Hommes shows that shadows in Raphael's painting became darker over time, changing the contrast and creating a theatrical effect. The study provides insights into the original composition of Renaissance paints and their aging process.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateFeb 19, 2002