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Researchers created a cloaking device to minimize crosstalk between photonic devices, enabling the packing of billions of devices into a single chip. This technology could lead to significant power consumption reductions and lower carbon emissions in data centers.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016
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.

Scientists experimentally realize optomechanically induced non-reciprocity

Researchers demonstrate optomechanically induced non-reciprocal transparency and amplification in a microresonator, enabling the creation of controllable isolators and circulators. A non-reciprocal phase shift of up to 40 degrees is achieved using two oppositely propagating driving fields.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 26, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New approach to microlasers

Researchers at MIT and Sandia National Laboratories describe a new way to build terahertz lasers that reduce power consumption and enable tighter beams. The device is an array of microfabricated lasers on a single chip, with phase-locking technology that recaptures lateral radiation, resulting in a tighter beam.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 13, 2016

New photonic sensor opens the door to high-speed biodetection

Researchers developed a new technique for fast photonic sensing of freely flowing particles using an opto-mechano-fluidic resonator. The sensor measures compressibility and viscoelasticity of cells and bioparticles, which correlates with diseases like cancers and anemia.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalOptica·DateJun 6, 2016

Plants display nature's optofluidic machinery

Plants utilize microfluidics and optics to control movement, photosynthesis, and water transport, highlighting the intersection of light and fluid in plant physiology. Researchers explore how plants optimize energy conversion, conserving water through stomata control.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateMay 17, 2016

Researchers demonstrate record optical nonlinearity

A team of researchers led by Robert W. Boyd has demonstrated up to 100 times greater nonlinearity in indium tin oxide than other known materials, revolutionizing photonics applications. This breakthrough opens the door for more careful study of the material's unique properties and potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016
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.

Controlling integrated optical circuits using patterns of light

Scientists at the University of Southampton have developed a method for reconfigurable optical elements using multimode interference devices. The team shows that intricate interplay between modes can be dynamically controlled, allowing to freely route light in a static silicon element.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalOptica·DateApr 18, 2016

Artificial molecules

Scientists at ETH Zurich and IBM Research have developed a new method to manufacture micro-objects with precisely defined magnetic, non-magnetic and differently charged areas. The technique enables the creation of small rods, tiny triangles and basic three-dimensional objects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 1, 2016

Researchers take giant step towards 'holy grail' of silicon photonics

Researchers from Cardiff University have demonstrated the first practical laser grown directly on a silicon substrate, paving the way for ultra-fast communication between computer chips. The breakthrough has the potential to transform various sectors, including communications, healthcare and energy generation.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 7, 2016

JPL researchers report on new tool to provide even better Landsat images

Scientists at JPL have designed a high-throughput pushbroom imaging spectrometer that can provide Landsat swath and resolution with better than 10 nm per pixel spectral resolution. This design enhances the science potential of Landsat, allowing for better understanding of glacial melt, urbanization, and water sources.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateFeb 1, 2016

NASA engineers tapped to build first integrated-photonics modem

NASA engineers have developed a groundbreaking integrated-photonics modem that will enable high-speed, laser-based communications at unprecedented rates. The modem is expected to transform industries such as telecommunications, medical imaging, advanced manufacturing, and national defense.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 29, 2016
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.

INRS professor José Azaña elected Optical Society Fellow

Professor José Azaña has been elected Fellow by the Optical Society (OSA) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to ultrafast photonics. He is the only Quebec academic and one of three Canadian researchers among this year's group of 77 OSA Fellows.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateDec 9, 2015

Johnson announces £20 million for manufacturing hubs

The UK has announced a £20 million investment for two manufacturing research Hubs, addressing key challenges and seizing opportunities in the sector. The Hubs will focus on commercializing early-stage research in engineering and physical sciences, with potential impacts on industries such as automotive and healthcare.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateNov 23, 2015
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.

New findings move flexible lighting technology toward commercial feasibility

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have made significant advancements in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) for solid-state lighting. The team developed flexible electrodes using graphene, conducting polymers, and silver nanowires, which demonstrated good electrical, optical, and mechanical performance.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateSep 3, 2015

UC Davis partners in new photonics manufacturing institute

The Integrated Photonics Institute for Manufacturing Innovation aims to stimulate new investment and industrial growth based on photonics technology. UC Davis' Center for Nano and Micro Manufacturing will play a major role in the West Coast hub of the institute.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJul 30, 2015

Quantum networks: Back and forth are not equal distances!

Scientists have developed a new type of photonic channel that allows them to control the direction of photon emission, enabling the creation of complex quantum circuits. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for building large-scale quantum computers and could lead to major advancements in chemistry and materials tec...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 27, 2015
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.

Computing at the speed of light

Engineers created an ultracompact beamsplitter to divide light waves into two channels, bringing researchers closer to silicon photonic chips that compute with light instead of electrons. This technology could significantly increase the power and speed of machines such as supercomputers, data center servers, and mobile devices.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 18, 2015

Peter Lodahl receives prestigious ERC Advanced Grant

Peter Lodahl, professor at the University of Copenhagen, has received a 18.6 million kroner grant from the European Research Council to develop technology for quantum communication based on photonics. The project aims to create scalable quantum photonic networks.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·DateMay 12, 2015
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.

Quantum teleportation on a chip

Researchers at the University of Bristol have successfully integrated quantum teleportation circuits onto a photonic chip, overcoming scalability limitations. This breakthrough enables the development of ultra-high-speed quantum computers and strengthens communication security.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 1, 2015
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.

Novel solid-state nanomaterial platform enables terahertz photonics

Researchers have created a novel solid-state technology platform that enables the use of terahertz photonics in various applications. The new nanodetectors can detect frequencies greater than 3 THz and offer competitive noise equivalent powers with commercially available technologies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateFeb 17, 2015

Photonic booms may help illuminate astronomical secrets

Researchers propose using photonic booms to map asteroid surfaces and study celestial objects, offering new insights into the universe. High-speed cameras could capture these flashes, revealing previously unknown information about asteroids and other cosmic bodies.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Australia·DateJan 9, 2015

Innovative manufacturing to take IT beyond the electronic age

Researchers are developing a new generation of photonic integrated circuits that use photons instead of electrons to transmit data. This technology has the potential to transform data communications and enable faster, smaller components for the growing number of Internet-connected devices.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateDec 19, 2014

Scientists X-ray tiny cell organelles responsible for carbon fixation

Researchers successfully imaged carboxysome particles, a key component in photosynthetic bacteria's carbon fixation process, using an X-ray laser method. The technique enables single-particle imaging of objects with varying size and shape, shedding light on the structure and dynamics of life's smallest units.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 17, 2014
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.

'Smart' bandage emits phosphorescent glow for healing below

A new paint-on, see-through 'smart' bandage glows to indicate tissue oxygenation concentration, enabling direct measurement for improved wound care. The bandage's phosphorescence emits light based on oxygen levels, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of wounds and burns.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 1, 2014

$18 million NSF investment aims to take flat materials to new heights

The National Science Foundation has awarded $18 million in grants to research nine teams of scientists working on 2-D atomic-layer research and engineering. These researchers aim to create new devices for photonics, electronics, sensors and energy harvesting by exploring the properties of two-dimensional materials.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 30, 2014

UC San Diego researchers build first 500 GHz photon switch

Researchers at UC San Diego built the first 500 GHz photon switch, enabling ultrafast optical control and opening a new class of sensitive receivers. The team developed a measurement technique to resolve sub-nanometer fluctuations in the fiber core, critical for fast switching and processing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateSep 9, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

On-chip topological light

Scientists at the Joint Quantum Institute have successfully demonstrated on-chip topological light, showcasing a robust and consistent method for photonic signal processing. The breakthrough enables the development of microscale delay lines with low energy loss, opening up new possibilities for quantum information processing.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 1, 2014

SPIE launches Neurophotonics journal with special section on BRAIN Initiative

The new journal Neurophotonics adds to the rapidly growing understanding of the brain through advanced optical methods and applications. Key findings include photoacoustic tomography techniques that display brain activity with high accuracy, and novel technologies for brain energy metabolism.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateJul 29, 2014

Combs of light accelerate communication

Researchers at KIT and EPFL demonstrated the use of miniaturized optical frequency comb sources for coherent data transmission in the terabit range, achieving a data rate of 1.44 terabits per second over 300 km.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 14, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Quantum cryptography for mobile phones

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a scheme to enable quantum cryptography on mobile phones, using photons as information carriers. This breakthrough technology has the potential to make secure communication available to the general public.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 3, 2014

A step closer to a photonic future

Researchers demonstrate low-power photonic devices fabricated using standard chip-making processes, achieving energy efficiencies competitive with electronics. The advancements enable the commercialization of photonic technology, accelerating its adoption in computing and communication applications.

SourceOptica·DateFeb 19, 2014
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.

Solitons in a crystal

EPFL scientists have discovered optical dissipative solitons in small millimeter-size optical resonators, producing extremely short and high-rate light pulses. This breakthrough has significant implications for applications such as astronomy, chemists' analysis, and telecommunication networks.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 22, 2013

A Terahertz generator with the highest signal quality

Researchers at Luz WaveLabs have developed a Terahertz generator with a signal quality one million times greater than current technology. The device uses an 'optic seed' to synthesize high-quality THz signals, making it suitable for various applications including security systems, cancer detection, and industrial inspection.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalIEEE Photonics Technology Letters·DateDec 16, 2013

Amplifying our vision of the infinitely small

A new method to detect and identify molecules has been discovered by Richard Martel's team, enabling the use of optical scanners to pinpoint particles. The technique uses nanoprobes composed of dye molecules aligned inside carbon nanotubes, which amplify Raman signals up to a million times stronger than other molecules.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 2, 2013

Neurophotonics journal will launch in 2014

The new journal will cover a range of topics including microscopic methods, optogenetics, and computational methods relevant to understanding brain function. It aims to foster greater awareness and interaction among the photonics, neuroscience, and clinical communities.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateNov 4, 2013
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.

Topological light: Living on the edge

Researchers at Joint Quantum Institute report direct observation of topological effects for light in two dimensions, creating ultrastable quantum 'playgrounds.' Photonic edge states exhibit persistent flow and near immunity against defects, similar to quantum Hall effect for electrons.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 20, 2013

An optical switch based on a single nano-diamond

Scientists demonstrate that a single nano-diamond can act as an efficient optical switch, enabling fast information processing and quantum computer operations. The innovation combines small dimensions with high speeds, operating at room temperature.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 15, 2013

World record: Wireless data transmission at 100 Gbit/s

Researchers achieve world-record rate of 100 gigabits per second via wireless data transmission. The method integrates photonic and electronic technologies to generate high-frequency radio signals, enabling efficient transmission over long distances without intermediate electronic circuits.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 14, 2013

CU, MIT breakthrough in photonics could allow for faster and faster electronics

Researchers at CU-Boulder and MIT have developed a new technique to integrate light-based communication into microprocessors, promising exponential improvement in computing speed. This innovation could lead to extremely energy-efficient computing and the continuation of Moore's Law, which has driven rapid advancements in electronics.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 1, 2013
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.

Seeing light in a new light

Researchers at Harvard University and MIT have successfully bound photons together to form a new type of matter, dubbed photonic molecules. This breakthrough challenges traditional understanding of light as massless particles that don't interact with each other.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateSep 25, 2013

Journal of Medical Imaging will launch in 2014

The Journal of Medical Imaging will cover fundamental and translational research and applications focused on photonics in medical imaging. The journal will mirror the scope of the annual SPIE Medical Imaging symposium, covering topics such as imaging physics, tomographic reconstruction algorithms, image processing, and more.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateSep 12, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

T-rays offer potential for earlier diagnosis of melanoma

Researchers have explored using terahertz radiation to detect early signs of melanoma, which starts in pigment-producing cells beneath the skin. T-rays can penetrate a few millimeters through cloth and skin, allowing for biochemical signatures of cancer to be detected, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 11, 2013