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Science snapshots: Chromosomes, crystals, and drones

Researchers from Berkeley Lab and universities explored human evolution by studying chromosome regions. They discovered massive genetic material in centromere-proximal regions, including unique variation in genes that shape our sense of smell. Meanwhile, scientists created new spiraling crystals made of stacked layers of germanium sulf...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 25, 2019

Army project may advance quantum materials, efficient communication networks

Scientists have developed a microchip that simulates particle interactions in a hyperbolic plane, a surface where space curves away from itself at every point. This research may advance understanding of materials relevant to Army goals and help explore questions in other fields, including communication networks.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2019

When the pigeon and the letter do not travel together

Researchers at the University of Vienna successfully implemented a counterfactual communication protocol, where information travels from Bob to Alice while photons travel in the opposite direction. This innovation resolves two major drawbacks of previous implementations and contradicts a crucial premise of communication theory.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJul 23, 2019

A sharper focus: New computational technique resolves compressed X-ray data

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a novel method to overcome limitations of high-energy X-rays, enabling sharper imaging of complex materials. This breakthrough allows scientists to gain better information about material interfaces and control the behavior of new materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review A·DateJul 18, 2019
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.

Coupled exploration of light and matter

Researchers from ETH Zurich have discovered a way to boost polariton-polariton interaction, enabling strong coupling between matter and light. This breakthrough opens up new perspectives for photonics and many-body physics.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2019

Robert Alfano team identifies new 'Majorana Photons'

The City College of New York research team, led by Professor Robert R. Alfano, has identified a new class of photons dubbed 'Majorana photons.' These unique photons have distinct properties that enable deeper penetration into brain tissues and microtubules, providing fundamental information about the brain's structure and function.

SourceCity College of New York·DateJul 15, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Rice device channels heat into light

Researchers at Rice University have created a device that channels waste heat into light, enabling more efficient solar energy systems. The technology, which utilizes carbon nanotube films, aims to simplify the process of turning heat into electricity with high efficiency.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Photonics·DateJul 12, 2019

Strange warping geometry helps to push scientific boundaries

Scientists at Princeton University have created an electronic array that simulates particle interactions in a hyperbolic plane, a geometric surface where space curves away from itself at every point. This innovation could enable new investigations in quantum mechanics and aid the design of new materials.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·DateJul 11, 2019
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.

Experiments show dramatic increase in solar cell output

Researchers have demonstrated a method for getting high-energy photons to kick out two electrons instead of one, potentially breaking the theoretical solar-cell efficiency limit. The new approach could add several percentage points to the maximum output of conventional silicon cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 3, 2019

X and gamma rays --Even more powerful

Skoltech researchers developed a new method to generate intense monoenergetic X and gamma-ray radiation using Nonlinear Compton Scattering. The invention uses carefully tuned laser pulses to remove parasitic broadening, significantly increasing the number of generated photons.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 13, 2019
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.

A new candidate for dark matter and a way to detect it

Researchers at UC Davis have found a new candidate for dark matter, a magnetic monopole particle that could interact with 'dark photons'. This new theory offers a potential way to detect dark matter particles streaming through the universe. However, the predicted phase shift is extremely small, making detection challenging.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJun 10, 2019

2D crystals conforming to 3D curves create strain for engineering quantum devices

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory explored how 2D crystals can grow over 3D objects and found that curvature can stretch and strain the crystals. Conformal growth of perfect 2D crystals over curved objects has the promise to localize strain and create high-fidelity arrays of single photon emitters.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 2019
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.

Secure metropolitan quantum networks move a step closer

A joint team of Chinese scientists has demonstrated CV-QKD transmission over commercial deployed fiber links with distances of up to 50 kilometers. The system achieved higher secret key rates compared to previous laboratory tests, overcoming challenges such as environmental perturbations and equipment losses.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalQuantum Science and Technology·DateMay 29, 2019

Quantum information gets a boost from thin-film breakthrough

Researchers have developed a new method to create thin films that emit single photons at precise locations, enabling the scalability of quantum materials. This breakthrough paves the way for beyond-lab-scale quantum information technologies, including all-optical quantum computing and quantum key distribution.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 29, 2019

Generating high-quality single photons for quantum computing

The new design achieves around 95% indistinguishability and three times higher efficiency than traditional cavities. It enables the production of high-quality single photons necessary for practical quantum computing, solving problems intractable for classical computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 14, 2019

HKUST physicist contributes to new record of quantum memory efficiency

A team of researchers led by Prof. DU Shengwang from HKUST achieved a breakthrough in photonic quantum memories, boosting efficiency to over 85% and fidelity to over 99%. This finding brings the dream of an 'universal' quantum computer closer to reality.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 27, 2019
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.

Nanocomponent is a quantum leap for Danish physicists

University of Copenhagen researchers create a nanomechanical router that emits quantum information carried by light particles, enabling the scaling up of quantum technology. The component's tiny size makes it promising for future applications, potentially achieving 'quantum supremacy' with tens of photons simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalOptica·DateApr 23, 2019

A hole in one for holographic display

Researchers at KAIST have designed an ultrathin display that can project dynamic, multi-colored 3D holographic images using tiny pinholes in a thin film. The system is small and scalable, paving the way for widespread applications of 3D holographic displays.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2019

Oregon scientists drill into white graphene to create artificial atoms

Researchers at the University of Oregon have successfully created artificial atoms in white graphene, which can generate single photons and potentially lead to breakthroughs in all-optical quantum computing. The discovery enables the scalable fabrication of artificial atoms onto a microchip, working in air and at room temperature.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateApr 11, 2019

Photons trained for optical fiber obstacle course will deliver stronger cyber security

A new approach enables the smooth navigation of photons through complex optical fiber obstacle courses, preserving entanglement and correlation. This breakthrough boosts expectations for quantum key distribution (QKD) technology, which uses signals in particles of light to create encryption keys.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 4, 2019

Researchers pinpoint origin of photons in mysterious gamma-ray bursts

Using simulations, researchers found that photons in long gamma-ray bursts originate from the photosphere of relativistic jets emitted by exploding stars. This discovery provides a promising explanation for the emission mechanism and could help unlock insights into dark matter and dark energy.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Optical toric code platform sets new record

A research group led by Professor PAN Jianwei and LU Chaoyang successfully designed the largest planar code platform at present using photons, demonstrating path-independent property in optical systems. This work provides a platform for simulating braiding operations with linear optics, enabling further exploration of anyonic statistics.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalOptica·DateMar 25, 2019

In a new quantum simulator, light behaves like a magnet

Physicists have created a quantum simulator that mimics the behavior of magnets at very low temperatures using photons instead of magnetic dipoles. This breakthrough enables researchers to study complex quantum phenomena without requiring expensive experimental setups.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 21, 2019
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 quantum sensor could improve cancer treatment

The new quantum sensor developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo promises significant advancements in long-range 3D imaging and monitoring the success of cancer treatments. The sensors can detect single particles of light with high timing resolution, speed, and efficiency over an unparalleled wavelength range.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 4, 2019

Researchers move closer to practical photonic quantum computing

A new measurement technique called COSPLI enables researchers to map and measure large-scale photonic quantum correlation with single-photon sensitivity, a critical step towards making photon-based quantum computing practical. The method uses CCD cameras and suppresses noise to detect signals from individual photons.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateFeb 28, 2019

Entangling photons of different colors

Researchers created quantum-correlated pairs made up of one visible and one near-infrared photon, combining the best of both worlds. This breakthrough promises to boost light-based circuits' ability to securely transmit information over long distances.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 25, 2019
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.

Quantum dots can spit out clone-like photons

Researchers at MIT and ETH in Zurich have developed a system to produce coherent single photons using perovskite quantum dots. The study found that these materials can maintain coherence levels approaching those of established emitters, making them promising for quantum computing applications and secure quantum communications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2019

In the blink of an eye: Team uses quantum of light to create new quantum simulator

A team led by Professor Ebrahim Karimi creates a new quantum simulator that uses the properties of light to simulate periodic and closed structures in nature. The experiment reveals fundamentally different physics between ring-shaped and line-shaped systems, opening opportunities for developing efficient photonic-based quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalOptica·DateFeb 19, 2019
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.

NRL, AFRL develop direct-write quantum calligraphy in monolayer semiconductors

Scientists have developed a method to directly write quantum light sources into monolayer semiconductors, enabling precise placement and real-time design of arbitrary patterns of single photon emitters. This breakthrough paves the way for emerging applications in secure communications, sensing, and quantum computation.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 14, 2019

Electron-gun simulations explain the mechanisms of high-energy cosmic rays

Chinese physicists develop mathematical equations and computer simulations to model photodetachment of negative ions via photons, simulating cosmic rays' collisions with planets. The speed of a moving surface significantly affects the chances of photodetachment, with Chloride (Cl-) ions being less prone than hydrogen (H-) ions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 6, 2019

Tangled up in quantum computing

The Interdisciplinary Quantum Information Research and Engineering (Inquire) instrument enables researchers in various fields to benefit from quantum resources, including entangled photons. Researchers can send photons into the central hub for high-tech imaging or receive entangled photons for secure communication.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJan 28, 2019

Classic double-slit experiment in a new light

A research team at the University of Cologne has successfully performed a variant of the double-slit experiment using resonant inelastic X-ray scattering. The experiment provided valuable information about the dynamic physical properties of solids and proved a fundamental theoretical prediction from 1994.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 18, 2019

POLAR experiment reveals orderly chaos of black holes

A recent study using high-precision polarization measurements of five gamma-ray bursts has found that GRBs oscillate in the same direction within short time slices, with the oscillation direction changing over time. The results challenge previous theoretical models and provide new insights into the physics of GRB prompt emissions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 15, 2019
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.

The orderly chaos of black holes

Researchers discovered that photons emitted during black hole creation appear to be disordered, yet highly ordered within short time slices. This contradicts theories of either complete polarization or randomness, presenting new challenges for understanding the birth environment of black holes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 14, 2019

Satellite study proves global quantum communication will be possible

Researchers have demonstrated feasible global quantum communication between high-orbiting satellites and a ground station, exchanging single photons over 20,000km. This milestone experiment proves secure quantum communications on a global scale using the Global Navigation Satellite System.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalQuantum Science and Technology·DateDec 19, 2018

New type of low-energy nanolaser that shines in all directions

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology developed a new polariton laser that emits light in all directions, using deliberately imperfect silver nanostripes. The discovery has vast potential applications, including microscopy lighting, LIDAR technology, and general illumination.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 17, 2018

DOE approves technical plan and cost estimate to upgrade Argonne facility

The U.S. Department of Energy has approved the technical scope, cost estimate and plan of work for an upgrade of the Advanced Photon Source (APS), a major storage-ring X-ray source at Argonne National Laboratory. The resulting facility will allow researchers to view matter at the atomic scale in three dimensions, opening new frontiers ...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateDec 17, 2018
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.

Scientists design new material to harness power of light

Researchers at UMass Lowell have created a new class of metamaterial that can change the color of light, enabling on-chip optical communication. This technology could lead to smaller, faster, and more efficient computer chips with wider bandwidth and better data storage.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalOptica·DateDec 17, 2018

Researchers demonstrate new building block in quantum computing

The researchers successfully demonstrated a new level of control over photons encoded with quantum information, performing distinct operations on two qubits in parallel. This breakthrough enables universal quantum computing and improves energy efficiency, stability, and control.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalOptica·DateDec 4, 2018

Will light be the basis for quantum computing?

A team from INRS has successfully generated high-dimensional cluster states and implemented novel quantum operations, paving the way for one-way quantum computing. This breakthrough uses photons as a data medium, leveraging their unique properties to increase information storage capacity and boost computational power.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 3, 2018
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.

Bending light around tight corners without backscattering losses

Researchers at Duke University have demonstrated a photonic crystal waveguide that directs photons of light around sharp corners with virtually no losses due to backscattering. This breakthrough enables the development of efficient light-based computing systems, which could replace electronic devices and save energy.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 19, 2018

Griffith precision measurement takes it to the limit

Researchers at Griffith University have developed a procedure for making precise measurements of speed, acceleration and material properties possible. Using photons and entanglement, they achieved sensitivity approaching the Heisenberg limit, outperforming previous experiments.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 4, 2018

RIT collaborates on multi-university research exploring the quantum world

A Rochester Institute of Technology researcher is collaborating on a multi-university project exploring quantum science in levitated mechanical systems. The project aims to create and sustain a quantum state with levitated optomechanics using advanced sensing designs based on the 'optical tweezers' technique.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateNov 2, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Army scientist seeks enhanced soldier systems through quantum research

Researchers at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory have created a topological quantum light source that can guide light around its edge, shielding it from disruptions. This breakthrough has the potential to enable more secure communications and enhanced sensing capabilities for soldiers.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2018

UTA researcher developing chip-scale system for quantum communications

Researchers create integrated quantum transceiver capable of sending and receiving quantum information over various waveforms, enabling fast, robust and photon-efficient quantum communications. The team aims to develop a single-chip system that can be used for both free space and optical fiber communication.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 31, 2018

Tianhe-2 supercomputer works out the criterion for quantum supremacy

A world-first criterion for quantum supremacy has been established using the Tianhe-2 supercomputer, demonstrating a significant advantage over classical computing in boson sampling tasks. The research sets the stage for future quantum computing advancements and paves the way for experimental implementation of quantum devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 30, 2018

A billion Euros for quantum research

Researchers at the Niels Bohr Institute will receive funding for projects developing quantum technologies with applications in secure communication, supercomputing, and precision measurements. The EU's Flagship program aims to create a 'quantum internet' with unbreakable communication.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateOct 29, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers create scalable platform for on-chip quantum emitters

Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology and Columbia University have developed a method to create large numbers of quantum light sources on a chip with unprecedented precision. The new platform enables the creation of single-photon emitters in defined locations, leading to record-high firing rates and improved efficiency.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 29, 2018

More goals in quantum soccer

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully applied the Purcell effect to improve the transmission of quantum information. By forcing photons onto a specific path using the Purcell effect, they achieved a significant increase in efficiency, enabling faster communication between quantum dots and transmitters.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 24, 2018