Photons

Sunlight-powered generation of correlated photon pairs

Gram-scale photocatalytic benzyl alcohol oxidation via photon-heteroatom jointly promoted redox cycling over nickel-based Pickering emulsion

A novel nickel-based Pickering emulsion catalyst enables gram-scale synthesis of high-purity benzaldehyde with co-produced hydrogen, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fine chemical synthesis. The synergistic effect of photon-heteroatom jointly promoted redox cycling accelerates the dehydrogenation reaction.

Experimental evidence shows how photons spread across multiple paths in an interferometer

Researchers at Hiroshima University have developed a new experimental method to demonstrate the physical delocalization of individual photons in an interferometer. The study challenges traditional interpretations of quantum mechanics and has significant implications for high-tech sensors and our understanding of reality.

‘Spin-flip’ in metal complexes can help solar cells leap beyond limits

Researchers successfully captured singlet-fission-amplified excitons with a molybdenum-based emitter, achieving 130% quantum yield and pushing the limits of solar cell efficiency. The team used a metal complex called 'spin-flip' emitter to harvest multiplied energy from singlet fission.

New method produces quantum dots that offer advantages for light-based technologies

A new manufacturing strategy for semiconductor quantum dots has been developed, offering advantages for light-based technologies. The method produces single and entangled photon emitters with low surface density, high symmetry, and wavelengths suitable for integrated photonics.

When light “thinks” like the brain: the connection between photons and artificial memory discovered

A study reveals that identical photons in optical circuits exhibit Hopfield Network behavior, enabling associative memory mechanisms similar to the human brain. The research finds a fundamental limit to memory capacity, with quantum coherence allowing correct retrieval but transitioning to disorder as data volume increases.

When light teaches materials to self-organize: Writing nature-like 3D nanowrinkles

Scientists create natural surfaces with 3D nanowrinkles that control light, liquids, and living cells. The method uses laser polarization to guide the material's organization, enabling precise control over wrinkle formation and applications in bio-inspired surfaces and sensors.

Scientists discover breakthrough materials to enhance light-based computers

Researchers at New York University have discovered gyromorphs, a new class of materials that outperform existing structures in blocking light signals. These materials have the potential to revolutionize light-based computers by maintaining signal strength and enabling faster calculations.

World’s first demonstration of entanglement swapping using sum-frequency generation between single photons

Researchers successfully demonstrated entanglement swapping using sum-frequency generation between single photons with a high signal-to-noise ratio. This achievement is expected to contribute to the miniaturization and efficiency improvement of photonic quantum information processing circuit, as well as the extension of transmission di...

IEEE study improves design of avalanche photodiodes for photodetection in the ultraviolet wavelength

Researchers have developed a numerical model to optimize avalanche photodiodes for detecting photons in ultraviolet wavelengths. The study improved the design of Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes, resulting in high single-photon detection efficiencies up to 71% for photons with a wavelength of 340 nm.

Chip-based phonon splitter brings hybrid quantum networks closer to reality

Researchers have created a chip-based device that can split phonons, enabling the connection of different quantum systems via phonons. This device could help link superconducting qubits with spin-based systems, supporting advances in computing and secure communication.

Molecular coating cleans up noisy quantum light

A novel molecular coating enhances the consistency and precision of quantum light sources, increasing their spectral purity and controlling photon energy. The coating protects single-photon emitters from atmospheric contaminants, enabling reliable quantum devices for secure communications and ultra-precise sensors.

Routing photonic entanglement towards a quantum internet

A new photonic router has been developed at Tohoku University, enabling the efficient routing of single and entangled photons with high fidelity. The router achieves low loss and high speed, making it compatible with existing telecom fiber networks.

Recent advances in exciton-polariton in perovskite

Exciton-polaritons in perovskites enable ultra-efficient photoluminescence, polariton lasing, and low-power laser applications. Perovskite semiconductors facilitate strong coupling at room temperature through simple methods, paving the way for robust and scalable photonic technologies.

Synthetic magnetic fields steer light on a chip for faster communications

Scientists have developed a method to generate pseudomagnetic fields inside photonic crystals, allowing for arbitrary control of light flow. This technique enables high-speed data transmission and opens new possibilities for optical communications and quantum technologies.

Two-photon microscopy uncovers hidden risks of brain capillary stalls

A new study using two-photon microscopy shows that brief interruptions in brain capillary flow can cause rapid drops in oxygen levels, potentially leading to tissue damage. The research found that even minor stalls can lead to significant hypoxia, highlighting the importance of uninterrupted blood flow to the brain.

Molecular hybridization through vacuum

Researchers at Max Planck Institute successfully couple spatially separated molecules via a modified vacuum field in an optical microresonator. This breakthrough enables the creation of synthetic states of coupled molecules, with potential applications in quantum technology and information processing.

University of Rochester and RIT develop experimental quantum communications network

Researchers at University of Rochester and RIT created an experimental quantum communications network to transmit information securely over long distances. The network uses single photons to enable secure communication without cloning or interception.

MIT engineers advance toward a fault-tolerant quantum computer

Researchers achieved a type of coupling between artificial atoms and photons that could enable readout and processing of quantum information in a few nanoseconds. This breakthrough demonstrates the fundamental physics behind nonlinear light-matter coupling, a crucial step toward realizing fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Nanophotonic platform boosts efficiency of nonlinear-optical quantum teleportation

Researchers have developed a nanophotonic platform that improves the efficiency of nonlinear-optical quantum teleportation by reducing light levels and operating with single photons. The technology transmits quantum information with 94% fidelity, outperforming theoretical limits of linear optical components.

Do neurons transmit light?

Scientists investigate whether living neurons can transport light through their axons, which would significantly change current models of the nervous system. If successful, it could have major implications for treating brain diseases and healing the brain.

Polarization control of photonic molecules with evanescent wave coupling

Scientists have achieved full polarization control of photons through the use of photonic molecules, enabling direct control of the local optical field that couples to embedded emitters. This method has high efficiency and potential for applications in spin-resolved cavity quantum electrodynamics.

A router for photons

Harvard researchers have created a photon router that could plug into quantum networks to create robust optical interfaces for noise-sensitive microwave quantum computers. The breakthrough enables control of microwave qubits with optical signals generated many miles away, bridging the energy gap between microwave and optical photons.

Hidden side channels in quantum sources could compromise secure communication

A team of researchers from University of Toronto Engineering has discovered hidden multi-dimensional modulation side channels in existing quantum protocols. These side channels arise in quantum sources and can introduce vulnerabilities to secure communication, potentially compromising the security of quantum key distribution.

Charge-separated state: Excited-state traps enhancing radio-luminescence of organic scintillators

Researchers enhance organic scintillators' light yield by introducing charge-separated state traps, achieving higher LY than traditional inorganic scintillators. The resulting scintillator displays a super-long afterglow for 7 hours, enabling new non-destructive testing methods.

Breakthrough in deep ultraviolet laser technology

Researchers developed a compact, solid-state laser system that generates 193-nm coherent light, marking the first 193-nm vortex beam produced from a solid-state laser. This innovation enhances semiconductor lithography efficiency and opens new avenues for advanced manufacturing techniques.

Device enables direct communication among multiple quantum processors

Researchers at MIT created a photon-shuttling interconnect that facilitates remote entanglement, a key step toward developing practical quantum computers. The device enables all-to-all communication between multiple superconducting quantum processors, paving the way for more efficient and scalable quantum computing.

South Africa and China establish record-breaking 12,900 km ultra-secure quantum satellite link

Scientists from South Africa and China successfully established the world's longest intercontinental ultra-secure quantum satellite link spanning 12,900 km. This achievement demonstrates South Africa's potential to develop a thriving quantum ecosystem.

Quantum-inspired cameras capture the start of life

Researchers at the University of Adelaide used quantum-sensitive cameras to image embryos, capturing biological processes in their natural state. The sensitive detection of photons allows for gentle illumination and minimizes damage from light, enabling researchers to study live cells and developing specimens.

Holograms with a twist: Entangling light and information

Researchers have created quantum holograms using metasurfaces and nonlinear crystals, enabling precise control over entangled information. The technology holds promise for practical applications in quantum communication and anti-counterfeiting, with potential to increase information capacity and reduce system size.

Metasurface technology offers a compact way to generate multiphoton entanglement

Researchers developed a new approach using metasurfaces to generate multiphoton entanglement, simplifying the process while increasing efficiency. This breakthrough enables the creation of different types of entangled states and facilitates the fusion of multiple pairs into larger groups.

Time interfaces: The gateway to four-dimensional quantum optics

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland investigates the behavior of photons at boundaries where material properties change rapidly over time. This research uncovers remarkable quantum optical phenomena that may enhance quantum technology and pave the way for an exciting emerging field: four-dimensional quantum optics.

New photon-avalanching nanoparticles could enable next-generation optical computers

Researchers developed new photon avalanching nanoparticles that exhibit high nonlinearities, overcoming challenges in realizing intrinsic optical bistability at the nanoscale. The breakthrough paves the way for fabricating optical memory and transistors on a nanometer scale comparable to current microelectronics.

University of Houston researchers paving the way for new era in medical imaging

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new technology that uses photon counting detectors to capture X-ray images with multiple energy levels simultaneously. This allows for more precise 3D visualization of different tissues and contrast agents, which can improve cancer detection and other medical applications.

Illuminating the proton’s inner workings

Researchers have created a detailed map of the forces acting inside a proton, simulating how the strong force varies across different regions. This breakthrough reveals massive forces of up to half a million Newtons, equivalent to 10 elephants, at minuscule scales.

Hybrid transparent electrodes enhance efficiency and longevity of perovskite solar cells

Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology developed bifacial perovskite solar cells with a novel NiO/Ag/NiO transparent electrode, achieving high efficiency, durability, and infrared transparency. The cells demonstrated impressive power conversion efficiencies and high bifaciality factors.

New X-ray experiment could solve major physics puzzles

Scientists use European X-ray Free Electron Laser to detect axions, which could provide evidence for new physics beyond Standard Model. The experiment sets stage for future searches in milli- to kilo-electron volt mass range.

Light from artificial atoms

Researchers at TU Wien and ISTA have developed artificial atoms made of superconducting circuits that can be tuned to specific energy values. These 'artificial atoms' enable the storage and retrieval of light, opening up new possibilities for quantum experiments.

IEEE study reveals breakthroughs in high-performance photon detectors

Researchers developed a fabrication technique to overcome design challenges for scalable single-photon detectors, enabling ultra-fast detection of photons regardless of direction or polarization. The study provides a comprehensive guide to fabricating high-quality fractal SNSPDs with improved sensitivity and system detection efficiency.

Quantum state of photoelectrons measured for the first time

For the first time, scientists have measured the quantum state of electrons ejected from atoms after absorbing high-energy light pulses. This technique provides a new way to study the interaction between light and matter, with potential applications in various fields of research.

From photons to protons: Argonne team makes breakthrough in high-energy particle detection

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new use for superconducting nanowire photon detectors to detect high-energy protons, opening up exciting opportunities in nuclear and particle physics. The team found that wire widths smaller than 400 nanometers demonstrate high detection efficiency.

Adding bridges to stabilize quantum networks

Researchers propose a new strategy to stabilize quantum networks by rebuilding connections after each use, which leads to an eventual stable network state. The key is finding the optimal number of links to add, determined to be the square root of the number of users.

Superconducting single-photon detectors get sub-millikelvin temperature resolution

Researchers developed high-sensitivity and low-noise infrared superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, achieving sub-mK temperature resolution. The detectors used photon counting technology, overcoming limitations of conventional semiconductor detectors.

Thin lenses have a bright future

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have successfully fabricated flat lenses called Fresnel zone plates using industry-standard equipment. These lenses have the potential to revolutionize optics in various fields by reducing space requirements while increasing efficiency, but they currently lack the efficiency of traditional lenses.

Quantum engineers ‘squeeze’ laser frequency combs to make more sensitive gas sensors

Researchers used quantum squeezing to improve gas sensing performance of optical frequency comb lasers, doubling the speed of detectors. The technique allowed for more precise measurements with fewer errors, enabling faster detection of molecules like hydrogen sulfide.

Fresh, direct evidence for tiny drops of quark-gluon plasma

Researchers at RHIC reveal direct evidence that even small nuclei can create tiny specks of quark-gluon plasma, a key signature of the primordial soup. The study finds that energetic particles lose energy and slow down significantly in these collisions, indicating the presence of QGP.

NTU Singapore-led discovery poised to help detect dark matter and pave the way to unravel the universe’s secrets

Researchers from NTU Singapore have developed a new crystal structure that shows naturally existing particles can behave like axions, promising to detect dark matter. The findings could lay the groundwork for understanding cosmic phenomena and uncovering the universe's greatest mysteries.

A tour de force: Columbia engineers discover new “all-optical” nanoscale sensors of force

Researchers create nanosensors that can measure piconewton and micronewton forces remotely using light, enabling multiscale sensing capabilities. These sensors operate in previously inaccessible environments with benign infrared light, revolutionizing technologies from robotics to medicine and space travel.

First demonstration of quantum teleportation over busy Internet cables

Researchers successfully transmit quantum information through a 30-kilometer-long fiberoptic cable carrying internet traffic, introducing a new possibility for combining quantum communication with existing internet cables. This breakthrough simplifies the infrastructure required for distributed quantum sensing or computing applications.

Astrophysicists capture astonishing images of gamma-ray flare from supermassive black hole M87

A team of scientists captured an astonishing image of a gamma-ray flare emanating from the supermassive black hole at the center of galaxy M87. The flare was tens of millions of times larger than the event horizon and lasted about three days, providing crucial insights into particle acceleration near black holes.

UCF researcher discovers new technique for infrared “color” detection and imaging

A new technique for detecting long wave infrared photons of different wavelengths has been developed by UCF researchers. This method, based on a nanopatterned graphene, offers dynamic spectral tunability and ultrafast response times, surpassing existing cooled and uncooled detectors.

A connection between quantum theory and information theory proved

Researchers from Linköping University confirmed a direct connection between quantum theory and information theory, revealing the degree of unknown information in a quantum system. The study used a new experimental setup to demonstrate the equivalence of entropic uncertainty with wave-particle duality.

Ultrafast dissociation of molecules studied at BESSY II

Scientists visualized the ultrafast dynamics of molecule dissociation using a new analytical method at BESSY II. The results show that lighter atom groups are ejected first, followed by heavier fragments. This process unfolds rapidly, similar to a 'molecular catapult' effect.

Experimental evidence of high harmonic generation producing quantum light

Researchers demonstrated the quantum optical properties of high-harmonic generation in semiconductors, aligning with theoretical predictions. The experiment showed entanglement and squeezing in the emitted light, which are key resources for many quantum technologies.

Research team demonstrated nonlinear compton scattering with a multi-petawatt laser, mimicking astrophysical phenomena and producing ultra-bright gamma rays

A team of researchers successfully demonstrated nonlinear Compton scattering using a multi-petawatt laser, producing ultra-bright gamma rays. The achievement offers new insights into high-energy electron-photon interactions without traditional particle accelerators.

Quantum-inspired design boosts efficiency of heat-to-electricity conversion

Rice engineers create a new thermal emitter that achieves efficiencies of over 60% despite practical design constraints, opening possibilities for more sustainable industrial processes and renewable energy growth. The technology could inform the development of grid-scale alternative storage solutions and power space applications.

New theory reveals the shape of a single photon

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new theory that explains how light and matter interact at the quantum level. The theory enables scientists to precisely define the shape of a single photon for the first time.

MPL scientists find a new way of entangling light and sound

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have developed a novel method to entangle photons with acoustic phonons, overcoming noise susceptibility and enabling high-temperature operation. This breakthrough has significant implications for secure quantum communications and quantum computing applications.

Improving energy production by boosting singlet fission process

Researchers from Kyushu University successfully promoted singlet fission by introducing chirality into chromophores, achieving high SF efficiency in aqueous nanoparticles. This breakthrough enables applications in energy science, quantum materials, and photocatalysis.

NRL introduces a new paradigm for control of quantum emitters

A NRL multi-disciplinary team developed a nonvolatile and reversible procedure to control single photon emission purity in monolayer tungsten disulfide by integrating it with a ferroelectric material. This novel heterostructure introduces a new paradigm for control of quantum emitters.