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Study paves way for development of advanced quantum networks

Researchers at UNICAMP developed a new technology to create bridges between superconducting circuits and optical fibers, enabling efficient transmission of information in the electromagnetic spectrum. This breakthrough paves the way for the development of advanced quantum networks with potential applications in computing and communicat...

A new way to create germ-killing light

Researchers at Osaka University have created a new optical device that generates deep-UV light using second harmonic generation, killing germs while remaining harmless to humans. The device is more efficient and compact than previous options, paving the way for commercial applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 2023

γ-MnO2 dual-core, pair-hole fiber for ultrafast photonics

The γ-MnO2 dual-core pair-hole fiber enables the production of an all-fiber mode-locked laser with a pulse width of about 1 ps and a repetition frequency of about 600 MHz. This fabrication scheme offers good stability and is suitable for combining other novel materials with specialty fibers, expanding ultrafast optics and sensing appli...

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

Finely-tuned quantum dots enhance nonlinear optics

Researchers have discovered a way to fine-tune quantum dots to enhance their nonlinear optical properties, allowing for tighter control over light emission frequency and brightness. This breakthrough could lead to significant advances in optoelectronic devices such as LEDs and light-based computer circuits.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 20, 2023

A novel, space-time coding antenna developed at CityU promotes 6G and secure wireless communications

A new space-time coding antenna developed at City University of Hong Kong enables manipulation of beam direction, frequency, and amplitude for improved user flexibility in 6G wireless communications. The antenna relies on software control and combines research advances in leaky-wave antennas and space-time coding techniques.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

A dual boost for optical delay scanning

Researchers at ETH Zurich introduce a novel single-cavity architecture for a dual-comb laser, enabling fast and precise scanning of optical delays. The system achieves high precision (2-fs) and stability (up to 500 Hz) for an optical delay of 12.5 ns, opening up new possibilities for practical applications.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2022

Researchers develop laser that could ‘reshape the landscape of integrated photonics’ with applications in LiDAR, atomic physics, AR/VR

A new type of integrated semiconductor laser has been developed using the Pockels effect, integrating a lithium-niobate-on-insulator platform. This technology enables fast reconfigurability and narrow spectral window, paving the way for applications in LiDAR remote sensing, microwave photonics, atomic physics, and AR/VR.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2022

Watching the fate of molecular nitrogen with X-rays, when an electron has been kicked out

Researchers at the Max Born Institute have used novel ultrashort soft X-ray spectroscopy to study the fate of molecular nitrogen when an electron is kicked out. They found that the B state has a similar degree of excitation as the X state, contradicting previous models. Instead, a coherent interplay between light fields enables lasing ...

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2022

Microscopic color converters move small laser-based devices closer to reality

Researchers developed a new method for converting light frequencies using atomically thin layers of molybdenum disulfide, enabling smaller lasers and potential applications in optical communications. The breakthrough could lead to compact phase-matched nonlinear optics and waveguide devices.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2022

Electrons in alcohol – concerted molecule and charge motions at terahertz frequencies

Researchers observed a novel type of excitation, called a polaron, where collective oscillations of the electron and its screening cloud arise at terahertz frequencies. These oscillations persist for tens of picoseconds and are impulsively triggered by ultrafast electron localization.

Topologically tuned terahertz confinement in a nonlinear photonic chip

Scientists have demonstrated nonlinear generation and topological tuned confinement of THz waves in an engineered lithium niobate chip. Topological control of THz waves may bring about new possibilities in the realization of THz integrated circuits, reducing scattering loss and decay.

Intense monocycle terahertz pulses from shifting electrons in quantum structures

Researchers have developed a novel concept for generating ultrashort THz waveforms by tailoring electronic currents in a compact optically driven quantum device. The THz pulses display a single oscillation of the electric field and can be tailored via the nonlinear generation process.

Ultrafast and coupled -- atomic vibrations in the quantum material boron nitride

Researchers discovered ultrafast coupled atomic vibrations in few-layer hexagonal boron nitride, resulting in a frequency down-shift of the optical phonons. The study also reveals a nonlinear optical effect that can be induced by moderate power light, holding potential for optoelectronic applications.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Optically generated quantum fluids of light reveal exotic matter-wave states in condensed matter physics

Scientists from Skoltech and the University of Southampton created an all-optical lattice that houses polaritons, quasiparticles with half-light and half-matter properties. They demonstrated breakthrough results for condensed matter physics and flatband engineering.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Computational approach speeds up advanced microscopy imaging

Researchers have developed a way to enhance the imaging speed of two-photon microscopy up to five times without sacrificing resolution. By combining compressive sensing with a faster scanning method, scientists can now observe biological phenomena that were previously too fleeting to image with current state-of-the-art microscopy.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateAug 27, 2019

Microscopic glass blowing used to make tiny optical lenses

Scientists create miniature cone-shaped lenses, called axicons, using a new micro glass blowing method. The technique enables the production of robust and low-cost glass axicons with high performance vacuum packaging, suitable for integration into biomedical imaging instruments like optical coherence tomography.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 25, 2019

Fullerene compounds made simulation-ready

Researchers developed a method to simulate fullerene complexes, which can help understand their electron acceptor properties and electrostatic potential energy. The new model provides a better understanding of the relationships between electrons and fullerenes.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 15, 2018

Innovative sensing technique could improve greenhouse gas analysis

Researchers have developed a ghost imaging technique that can measure atmospheric greenhouse gases with subnanometer resolution, improving detection sensitivity and accuracy. The new approach enables measurements using less powerful light sources and at wavelengths where highly sensitive detectors aren't available.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 10, 2018

Fiber optic sensor measures tiny magnetic fields

Researchers developed a light-based technique for measuring weak magnetic fields, like those from the brain. The sensors can detect the brain's magnetic field and have the potential to replace MRI machines, offering an alternative for real-time brain activity mapping.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 19, 2018

Researchers create fiber optic sensors that dissolve in the body

The new bioresorbable optical fiber Bragg gratings can be used to sense pressure at joints or act as tiny probes that can safely reach and assess the heart and other delicate organs. The sensors could also improve laser-based tumor removal techniques by delivering accurate real-time temperature sensing.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateFeb 5, 2018

New 3-D display takes the eye fatigue out of virtual reality

A new type of 3D display, mimicking the depth cues our eyes are accustomed to in the real-world, improves viewing comfort in VR headsets and AR glasses. The innovative display module, measuring only 1 x 2 inches, produces depth cues that create a unified 3D image, eliminating vergence-accommodation conflict.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 21, 2017

Increasing the sensitivity of next-generation gravitational wave detectors

Researchers have made significant progress in developing stable laser sources for third-generation gravitational wave detectors, enabling the detection of weaker signals from distant cosmic events. The development includes a new type of pre-mode cleaner that compensates for astigmatism, making designs like the Einstein Telescope possible.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateFeb 10, 2017

New microscope chemically identifies micron-sized particles

Researchers developed a new microscope that can chemically identify individual micron-sized particles using infrared spectroscopy without detectors. The instrument uses photothermal modulation of Mie scattering, allowing for non-destructive analysis and identification of multiple species simultaneously.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJan 5, 2017

A better imager for identifying tumors

Researchers developed a small, lightweight device that combines near-infrared fluorescent imaging to detect marked cancer cells with visible light reflectance imaging to see tissue contours. This technology enhances surgeons' ability to precisely remove tumors and minimize healthy tissue damage.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 19, 2014

World's smallest wrench puts a new twist on microscopic manipulation

Researchers have created a fiber-optic equivalent of the world's smallest wrench, enabling precise control over microscopic particles like living cells and DNA. This new technique uses flexible optical fibers to twist and turn particles in any direction, promising advancements in biological research, healthcare, and more.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateDec 3, 2012

A 3-D light switch for the brain

Scientists have developed a new tool that can deliver precise points of light to a 3-D section of living brain tissue, allowing for unprecedented control over individual neurons. This technology, called optogenetics, has the potential to treat conditions such as Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateNov 19, 2012

Laser-powered 'needle' promises pain-free injections

A new laser-based system can propel tiny, precise streams of medicine into the skin with minimal force, potentially eliminating pain from injections. The device uses an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser to create a vapor bubble that forces drug-laden jets into the targeted depth of the skin.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 13, 2012

Hearing the telltale sounds of dangerous chemicals

A new sensor uses a phenomenon called photoacoustic effect to detect and identify chemicals, including nerve agents. The system can identify multiple agents simultaneously in real-time, with potential applications for detecting hazardous gases.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateAug 14, 2012