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Bringing quantum computing to light

Researchers explore quantum optical technology to solve scalability and accuracy issues in quantum computing, aiming to develop new drugs faster and more efficiently. Photon-based systems offer a solution by reducing physical components, increasing opportunities for scaling and stability.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 15, 2023

From PIC to probe

A team of researchers at Ghent University and imec developed a silicon photonic temperature sensor that measures up to 180°C. The sensor was realized in the framework of the European SEER project, where partners focus on integrating optical sensors in manufacturing routines for composite parts.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateDec 15, 2023
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.

Researchers create stable hybrid laser by 3D printing micro-optics onto fibers

The researchers successfully created a stable hybrid laser by 3D printing micro-optics onto fibers, reducing the size and cost of traditional lasers. The new design enables high-power laser sources with compactness and robustness, opening up opportunities for applications such as autonomous vehicles, medical procedures, and lithography.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateDec 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Thermal impact of 3D stacking photonic and electronic chips

The study found that 3D integration can lead to significant heat spreading and crosstalk, reducing heater efficiency by up to -43.3% and increasing thermal crosstalk by up to +44.4%. However, optimizing design variables, such as spacing between µbumps and interconnect linewidth, can minimize the thermal penalty of 3D integration.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateDec 7, 2023

Broadband buzz: Periodical cicadas' chorus measured with fiber optic cables

A new proof-of-concept study demonstrates the use of distributed fiber optic sensing to detect and analyze the sound of periodical cicadas. The technology shows promise for charting the populations of these famously ephemeral bugs, with potential applications in monitoring insect abundance across seasons and years.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

Photonic chip that ‘fits together like Lego’ opens door to semiconductor industry

Researchers at the University of Sydney have invented a compact silicon semiconductor chip integrating electronics with photonic components, significantly expanding radio-frequency bandwidth and filter control. The new technology has potential applications in advanced radar, satellite systems, wireless networks, and telecommunications,...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

TPL for photonic packaging: a promising solution

A team of scientists has developed new packaging technologies using TPL to address the challenges of photonic integrated circuits (PICs). The technology offers several unique advantages, including high-resolution 3D structures and customizable connections, which relax the alignment tolerance during PIC assembly.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateNov 30, 2023

The chip that makes calculations with light

Scientists at Politecnico di Milano have created photonic chips that can mathematically calculate the ideal shape of light to pass through any environment, increasing transmission capacity. The devices generate multiple overlapping beams with unique shapes, reducing interference and enabling high-bandwidth data transfer

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Nextgen computing: Hard-to-move quasiparticles glide up pyramid edges

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new way to move quasiparticles, which could lead to more efficient devices and room temperature quantum computers. The team used a laser to create a cloud of quasiparticles that migrated up the pyramid's edge and settled at the peak.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 28, 2023
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.

High-power fibre lasers emerge as a pioneering technology

Scientists from UniSA, UoA and Yale University successfully scale up power in fibre lasers by three-to-nine times while maintaining beam quality. This breakthrough could have significant implications for remote sensing, gravitational wave detection and the defence industry.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2023

Autonomous lab discovers best-in-class quantum dot in hours; it would have taken humans years

Researchers at NC State University developed an autonomous system called SmartDope to synthesize 'best-in-class' materials for specific applications in hours or days. It uses a self-driving lab to manipulate variables, characterize optical properties, and update its understanding of the synthesis chemistry through machine learning.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2023

‘Hot’ new form of microscopy examines materials using evanescent waves

Researchers have developed a new form of microscopy that can probe details in an object's surface using evanescent waves. The technique, which detects radiation emitted by the object itself, has been used to examine thermally excited evanescent waves in dielectric materials with nanoscale precision.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2023
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.

Clear holographic imaging in turbulent environments

A new method called TWC-Swin effectively restores holographic images even under low spatial coherence and arbitrary turbulence, surpassing traditional convolutional network-based methods. The study demonstrates strong generalization capabilities, extending its application to unseen scenes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 27, 2023

Revolutionizing radar: Integrated THz emitter for precise rotating target detection

Researchers have developed an integrated THz vortex beam emitter to detect rotating targets with remarkable precision. The system uses spiraling electromagnetic waves with orbital angular momentum to accurately measure the speed of a rotating object, with a maximum margin of error of just around 2 percent.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 20, 2023
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.

Miniaturized FSO breakthrough unlocks high-speed wireless communication anywhere

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a miniaturized FSO system achieving an astonishing 9.16 Gbps bandwidth over 1 km link using readily available commercial fiber transceiver modules. The system enables automatic tracking and precision acquisition, eliminating the need for optical amplification.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 17, 2023

Ultra-wideband heterogeneous integrated photodiodes on thin-film lithium niobate platform

Researchers have developed high-speed and high-responsivity photodetectors on a thin-film lithium niobate platform, achieving a 3-dB bandwidth of 110 GHz and responsivity of 0.4 A/W at 1550-nm wavelength. The devices demonstrate potential for ultra-high-speed optical communications and multi-function integrated quantum photonics.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateOct 6, 2023
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.

A new qubit platform is created atom by atom

Researchers at IBS Center for Quantum Nanoscience created a novel electron-spin qubit platform assembled atom-by-atom on a surface, demonstrating ability to control multiple qubits. This breakthrough enables application of single-, two-, and three-qubit gates.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023

Discovery made by University of Warsaw scientists may enable network interface for quantum computers

Scientists at the University of Warsaw have developed a device that can convert quantum information between microwave and optical photons, enabling a crucial part of quantum network infrastructure. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in quantum computing, radio-astronomy, and high-speed internet connections.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 5, 2023

Navigating moiré physics and photonics with band offset tuning

Researchers propose a new way to control moiré flatbands by adjusting the band offset of two photonic lattices, enabling the creation of novel multiresonant moiré devices. This breakthrough opens new opportunities in moiré photonics and promises to inspire future explorations into innovative moiré devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023
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.

Transparent wood-based coating doesn’t fog up

A team of scientists at Aalto University has created a bio-based transparent film from lignin nanoparticles, offering an alternative to toxic synthetic materials. The coating can be used on glasses, windshields, and other surfaces, and also displays coloured films with structural colours.

SourceAalto University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateSep 26, 2023

New method makes microcombs ten times more efficient

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method to increase the efficiency of microcombs, raising their efficiency from around 1 percent to over 50 percent. This breakthrough enables high-performance laser technology for various applications in space exploration, healthcare, and other industries.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023
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.

New photonic neural networks promise ultrafast computing for complex tasks

Researchers developed a high-performance photonic spiking neural network that surpasses traditional digital systems with its ultrafast performance and low power consumption. The new network achieved excellent classification accuracies of over 94%, outperforming benchmark results with small training sets.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateSep 12, 2023

Illuminating new horizons: Navigating nonlinear scattering with precision

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new scattering matrix method that can sculpt light output with minimal optimization time. The method offers unparalleled nonlinear scattered light control, enabling high-resolution scanning microscopy and particle trapping through dense, scattering media.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 31, 2023

Realizing ultrafast imaging from 2D to quasi 3D

Scientists at Beijing Institute of Technology have developed an ultrafast quasi-three-dimensional technique, enabling higher dimensions to analyze ultrafast processes. This method breaks through the limitations of original observational dimensions, enhancing our ability to analyze ultra-fast processes comprehensively.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 30, 2023

High-fidelity transmission of information via novel electronic-optical system

A hybrid system of electronic encoding and diffractive optical decoding transmits optical information with high fidelity through random, unknown diffusers. The system outperforms traditional approaches that only utilize a diffractive optical network or an electronic neural network for optical information transfer.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 28, 2023
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.

New “bandit” algorithm uses light for better bets

Researchers developed a modified bandit Q-learning algorithm that aims to learn optimal Q values for every state-action pair, balancing exploitation and exploration. The scheme relies on photonic systems to enhance learning quality, accelerating parallel learning through conflict-free decision-making.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateAug 21, 2023

Arrays of quantum rods could enhance TVs or virtual reality devices

Researchers develop a new method to assemble arrays of quantum rods onto patterned DNA scaffolds, enabling precise control over light emission and polarization. This breakthrough could enhance virtual reality devices and microLEDs with improved depth and dimensionality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023

Technology advance could expand the reach of 3D nanoprinting

Researchers develop low-cost 3D nanoprinting system with nanometer-level accuracy for printing microlenses, metamaterials, and micro-optical devices. The system uses a two-step absorption process and integrated fiber-coupled laser diode, making it accessible to scientists beyond optical experts.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateAug 9, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New technique measures structured light in a single shot

Researchers have developed a new measurement technique that uses the Kramers-Kronig relation to untangle complex helical light patterns from camera intensity measurements. This allows for single-shot retrieval of orbital angular momentum spectrum information, accelerating and simplifying the process compared to conventional on-axis int...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 8, 2023
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.

Way cool: UVA professor developing ‘freeze ray’ technology for the Air Force

UVA professor Patrick Hopkins is developing a 'freeze ray' technology to cool electronics in spacecraft and high-altitude jets, which can't be cooled by nature due to the vacuum of space. The technology uses heat-generating plasma to create localized cooling, and has been granted $750,000 by the Air Force.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2023

Complex-domain neural network advances large-scale coherent imaging

A new complex-domain neural network enhances large-scale coherent imaging by exploiting latent coupling information between amplitude and phase components. The technique reduces exposure time and data volume significantly while maintaining high-quality reconstructions.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJul 27, 2023

Discovery may lead to terahertz technology for quantum sensing

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a metal oxide that can enable terahertz technology for quantum sensing. The material, strontium titanate, exhibits unique properties that allow it to interact strongly with terahertz light, forming new particles called phonon-polaritons.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023

From chaos to light

A team of researchers from EPFL has found a way to harness the unique features of chaotic frequency combs to implement unambiguous and interference-immune massively parallel laser ranging. This innovative approach offers significant advantages over conventional methods, enabling hundreds of multicolor independent optical carriers.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023
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.

3D-printed facet-attached microlenses (FaML) could overcome photonic packaging challenges

Researchers have demonstrated a new approach to photonic packaging using 3D-printed FaMLs, which can be printed with high accuracy to connect optical components. This method relaxes alignment tolerances and enables passive assembly techniques, opening an attractive path towards scalable and flexible photonic system assembly.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateJul 11, 2023

Photonic time crystals could open the door to a new branch of optics

Researchers have successfully created photonic time crystals with fast oscillations in refractive index, faster than current theories can explain. This breakthrough has profound implications for the science of light and could enable truly disruptive applications.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Photonic snake states

Photonic snake states have been discovered, enabling two-dimensional optical rules with unprecedented versatility. This breakthrough enables the development of broadband, reconfigurable devices with real-time frequency comb generation.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalNature Photonics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 10, 2023

Researchers demonstrate first visible wavelength femtosecond fiber laser

The team's breakthrough enables the production of bright visible-wavelength pulses in the femtosecond range directly with fiber lasers. This advance has significant implications for various fields, including high-precision ablation of biological tissues, two-photon excitation microscopy, and material processing.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJul 6, 2023

Multi-dimensional band structure spectroscopy in photonic synthetic frequency dimensions

The team used a photonic resonator to create a multi-dimensional lattice in the synthetic frequency dimension and measured its band structure. The researchers unveiled properties related to nontrivial eigenvalue topology, which are associated with the non-Hermitian skin effect.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJul 6, 2023

Orbital angular momentum boosts multiplexed holography

Researchers have implemented Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) as an independent information carrier for optical holography, leading to OAM multiplexed holography. The new design approach, MHC-OAM, uses spatial light modulators to achieve multiramp helical conical beams with different parameters serving as information encryption or decryp...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJul 5, 2023

Insert an ID card into hair-thin optical fiber with femtosecond laser direct-writing fiber Bragg grating array

Fiber sensing scientists from Shenzhen University have developed an encrypted fiber optic tag that can be used for all-optical labeling and recognition of optical transmission channels. The team proposed a method using fiber Bragg grating arrays prepared by femtosecond laser direct writing to flexibly store different coding sequences.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 4, 2023
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.

Limiting loss in leaky fibers

Researchers have figured out why some air-filled fibre designs work so much more efficiently than others. Dr Leah Murphy and Emeritus Professor David Bird from the University of Bath developed a theoretical understanding of the relationship between fibre structure and leakage loss.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalOptica·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2023

CityU awarded invention: Soft, ultrathin photonic material cools down wearable electronic devices

A research team at CityU developed a multifunctional composite polymer coating with both radiative and non-radiative cooling capacity, enhancing heat dissipation in wearable electronics. The cooling interface achieved temperature drops of over 56°C, improving the performance of skin electronic devices.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2023
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.

The device that can remotely and accurately monitor breathing: as tested on cane toads

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a photonic radar system that can accurately detect pauses in breathing patterns remotely. The system has been tested on cane toads and simulated human breathing devices, demonstrating its potential for non-invasive vital sign monitoring in clinical environments.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2023

Chip-based dispersion compensation for faster fibre internet

SUTD researchers created a CMOS-compatible, slow-light-based transmission grating device for high-speed data dispersion compensation. The devices achieved minimal loss and improved error correction performance, paving the way for on-chip integration in transceivers.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Photonics Research·DateJun 29, 2023