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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.

SourceRice University·Journalnpj Nanophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2024

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.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

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.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024
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.

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.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

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.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateOct 31, 2024

Optica Quantum October 2024 Issue Press Tip Sheet

The new issue of Optica Quantum features 10 research articles on quantum information science and technology. New methods for compensating scattering and aberrations in entangled photon systems have been proposed, and ultrafast nonlinear wave mixing spectroscopy schemes employing coherent light pulses and vacuum modes are being explored.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica Quantum·DateOct 30, 2024

Unidirectional imaging technology breakthrough

Researchers at UCLA developed a new type of imaging technology that forms images in only one direction, enabling efficient and compact methods for asymmetric visual information processing and communication. The technology works exceptionally well under partially coherent light, achieving high-quality imaging with high power efficiency.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 29, 2024

Major development successes in diamond spin photon quantum computers

The SPINNING project successfully demonstrated the entanglement of two registers of six qubits each over 20m distance with high fidelity. The spin-photon-based quantum computer achieved lower error rates than superconducting Josephson junctions, outperforming prominent models like Eagle and Heron.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·DateOct 28, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Thermophotovoltaics demonstrate economic promise

Researchers analyzed a thermophotovoltaic system paired with phase-change materials for energy storage and found slight reductions in costs. The study identified key factors affecting TPV system costs, highlighting the need for future research to improve adoption and efficiency.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateOct 24, 2024

Solving computationally hard problems with 3D integrated photonics

Researchers have developed a reconfigurable three-dimensional integrated photonic processor specifically designed to tackle the subset sum problem, a classic NP-complete challenge. The processor operates by allowing photons in a light beam to explore all possible paths simultaneously, providing answers in parallel and demonstrating hig...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 23, 2024

High-dimensional photonics accelerates quantum computing

A new study by Prof. Yaron Bromberg and Dr. Ohad Lib from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has made significant progress in quantum computing through photonic-measurement-based quantum computation. They successfully generated cluster states with over nine qubits at a frequency of 100 Hz, overcoming scalability barriers.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Photonics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 9, 2024

Building better solar cells: assembly of 2D molecular structures with triptycene scaffold

Scientists developed a streamlined approach to assemble 2D molecular structures using a supramolecular scaffold, enhancing the efficiency of singlet fission and paving the way for advancements in solar cells. The new method created two distinct 2D self-assembling structures with high quantum yields, outperforming previous designs.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2024
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.

Giving batteries a longer life with the Advanced Photon Source

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have validated a cathode hydrogenation mechanism as the cause of self-discharge in lithium-ion batteries. This discovery could lead to the development of smaller, lighter and cheaper batteries with improved lifespan.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2024

Electrically modulated light antenna points the way to faster computer chips

A research team at the University of Würzburg has achieved electrically controlled modulation of light antennas, paving the way for ultra-fast active plasmonics. This breakthrough could lead to significantly faster computer chips and new insights into energy conversion and storage technologies.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2024
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.

Researchers create a one-dimensional gas out of light

Physicists at the University of Bonn and Kaiserslautern-Landau created a one-dimensional gas out of light, allowing for the first time to test theoretical predictions about its transition into an exotic state of matter. The method used in the experiment could be used to examine quantum effects.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

Researchers create an “imprint” on a super photon

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully created a Bose-Einstein condensate on a super photon using tiny nano molds. This allows for the shaping of light into a simple lattice structure, which could be used to make information exchange between multiple participants tap-proof.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024
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.

New sensor technology enhances detection of tiny particles

A new type of sensor leverages exceptional points to achieve high sensitivity and reconfigurability. The novel design addresses limitations of traditional EP-based sensors by incorporating spoof localized surface plasmon resonators, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration of EP states across a wide frequency range.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateAug 27, 2024

Leaf-like solar concentrators promise major boost in solar efficiency

Researchers propose a leaf-inspired luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) design to overcome scalability limitations. The innovative setup enhances photon collection and transfer, improving efficiency and reducing self-absorption issues.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateAug 15, 2024

New insights into neural circuit imaging: A comparison of one-photon and two-photon techniques

A recent study by Harvard University researchers compares the effectiveness of one-photon (1P) versus two-photon (2P) voltage imaging in neural circuits. The study found that 2P excitation requires approximately 10,000 times more illumination power per cell compared to 1P excitation, posing significant challenges for 2P voltage imaging.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateAug 14, 2024

Tracking the color of light

Researchers developed a new spectroscopy method using tunable lasers, enabling precise tracking of the laser's color at every point in time. The technique offers higher power and spectral stability compared to existing methods, making it suitable for various applications including LIDAR and spectroscopy.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 12, 2024
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.

Achieving quantum memory in the hard X-ray range

A team of researchers has demonstrated a novel way of storing and releasing X-ray pulses at the single photon level, enabling future X-ray quantum technologies. This breakthrough uses nuclear ensembles to create long-lived quantum memories with improved coherence times.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2024

Physicists use light to probe deeper into the ‘invisible’ energy states of molecules

Researchers at the University of Bath have discovered a new optical phenomenon called hyper-Raman, which can penetrate deeper into living tissue and yield images with better contrast. This effect has significant potential applications in pharmaceutical science, security, forensics, environmental science, art conservation, and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2024

Pursuing the middle path to scientific discovery

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have made significant strides in understanding the mesoscale properties of a ferroelectric material under an electric field. The breakthrough holds potential for advances in computer memory, lasers, and sensors.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2024
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.

Optical fibers fit for the age of quantum computing

Researchers at the University of Bath have created new specialty optical fibers to cope with the challenges of future quantum computing. These fibers feature a micro-structured core that allows for improved data transfer and the creation of entangled photons, enabling quantum computation.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAPL Quantum·DateJul 29, 2024
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.

Turning infrared light visible

The Indian Institute of Science has fabricated a device to up-convert short infrared light to the visible range, utilizing a non-linear optical mirror stack made of gallium selenide. This innovation has diverse applications in defence and optical communications, including astronomy and chemistry.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·DateJun 20, 2024

A liquid crystal source of photon pairs

Scientists have demonstrated spontaneous parametric down-conversion in a liquid crystal, creating entangled photon pairs with high efficiency. The discovery enables flexible and electric-field-tunable quantum light sources.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2024

Quantum dots and metasurfaces: Deep connections in the nano world

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have created metasurfaces embedded with quantum dots, enhancing their luminescence efficiency. The study achieved up to 25 times greater luminescence efficiency compared to a simple coating of quantum dots.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 11, 2024
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.

New technique could help build quantum computers of the future

Researchers have developed a method to create and control optical qubits in silicon with high precision, enabling the fabrication of reliable quantum computers. This breakthrough could advance quantum computing and networking capabilities, paving the way for breakthroughs in human health, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Researchers demonstrate new way to ‘squeeze’ infrared light

Researchers demonstrate a new way to confine infrared light using thin-film oxide membranes, which outperform bulk crystals in resolution and frequency maintenance. The technique has potential applications in photonics, sensors, and thermal management.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 10, 2024

Perturbations simplify the study of “super photons”

Researchers at the University of Bonn have demonstrated that photon Bose-Einstein condensates obey a fundamental theorem of physics. By applying gentle and strong perturbations to the condensate, they showed that it responds in the same way as to random fluctuations without a perturbation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New all-optical approach to revolutionize night vision technology

Researchers at TMOS have developed a new infrared filter thinner than cling wrap, which can be integrated into everyday eyewear, allowing users to view both visible and infrared light spectra. This breakthrough miniaturizes night vision technology, opening up new applications in safety, surveillance, and biology.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2024

Landmark study is step towards energy-efficient quantum computing in magnets

Researchers at Lancaster University and Radboud University Nijmegen have discovered a novel pathway to modulate and amplify spin waves at the nanoscale, paving the way for dissipation-free quantum information technologies. The study's findings could lead to the development of fast and energy-efficient computing devices.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2024
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.

Quantum photonic technologies set to be more reliable with new interferometer.

Researchers have developed a new device that can determine photon pair properties in a single shot, improving precision and accuracy in quantum technologies. The metasurface-enabled multiport interferometer reduces size, weight, and power while increasing reliability.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2024

A simple internet with significant possibilities

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully demonstrated the first metro-area quantum computer network in Boston, using existing telecommunication fiber to send hacker-proof information via photons. The breakthrough overcomes signal loss issues, enabling the creation of a secure quantum internet.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

New surface acoustic wave techniques could lead to surfing a quantum internet

Scientists at the University of Rochester have developed a technique for pairing particles of light and sound, allowing for faithful conversion of information stored in quantum systems. The method uses surface acoustic waves, which can be accessed and controlled without mechanical contact, enabling strong quantum coupling on any material.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The interference of many atoms, and a new approach to boson sampling

Researchers demonstrate novel method of boson sampling using ultracold atoms in a two-dimensional optical lattice, overcoming previous limitations in simulations and photon-based experiments. The achievement showcases the potential of quantum devices for performing non-classical computational tasks.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024

New quantum sensing scheme could lead to enhanced high-precision nanoscopic techniques

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth unveiled a quantum sensing scheme that enhances superresolution imaging techniques, circumventing traditional limitations like diffraction. The new technique achieves unprecedented levels of precision, paving the way for new high-precision sensing schemes.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Airborne single-photon lidar system achieves high-resolution 3D imaging

Researchers have developed a compact and lightweight single-photon airborne lidar system that can acquire high-resolution 3D images with a low-power laser. The system uses single-photon detection techniques to measure time-of-flight, enabling highly accurate 3D mapping of terrain and objects even in challenging environments.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateApr 25, 2024
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.

Compact quantum light processing

Researchers have achieved quantum interference among several single photons using a novel, resource-efficient platform, paving the way for scalable quantum technologies. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in optical quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 19, 2024

Crucial connection for ‘quantum internet’ made for the first time

For the first time, scientists have created a system that interfaces two key components of quantum networks: quantum information creation and storage. The team used regular optical fibres to transmit quantum data, enabling long-distance communication and paving the way for distributed computing and secure communication.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 16, 2024

Enhancing radiative cooling with aperture mirror structures

Researchers demonstrate how a simple mirror design can amplify radiative cooling processes for buildings. The mirror structure effectively guides thermal radiation towards the most transmissive portion of the atmosphere, increasing cooling power.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateApr 10, 2024

New four-terminal tandem organic solar cell achieves 16,94% power conversion efficiency

Researchers at ICFO have fabricated a new four-terminal tandem organic solar cell with a high power conversion efficiency of 16.94%, achieving a significant improvement over previous records for four-terminal tandem devices. The device features an ultrathin transparent silver electrode, enabling efficient light transmission and operation.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalSolar RRL·DateApr 8, 2024

With VECSELs towards the quantum internet

Researchers have developed VECSELs with record output power and absolute frequency stability, overcoming the hurdle of spectral differences between glass fibers and quantum bits. These lasers enable low-loss transmission and precise frequency conversion for quantum internet applications.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·DateApr 5, 2024
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.

100 kilometers of quantum-encrypted transfer

Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, enabling secure data transfer over long distances. The new method uses Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution to distribute quantum-encrypted keys via fibre optic cables, paving the way for a quantum-secure internet infrastructure.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 2, 2024

Rice research shows promise for advancing quantum networks

Rice University engineers have demonstrated a way to control the optical properties of T centers, paving the way toward leveraging these point defects for building quantum nodes. By embedding a T center in a photonic integrated circuit, they increased the collection efficiency for single photon emission by two orders of magnitude.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

The world is one step closer to secure quantum communication on a global scale

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have created a novel quantum dot source that produces near-perfect entangled photons, a crucial step towards global-scale secure quantum communication. This achievement combines two Nobel Prize-winning concepts and has significant implications for quantum key distribution and quantum repeaters.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMar 25, 2024

How to upcycle low-energy light

Kobe University scientists develop material guideline for high-efficiency PV cells, OLED displays and anti-cancer therapies by understanding energy transfer between molecules. The research enables aligned electron spin states to combine low-energy photons into a high-energy photon.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Photon upconversion: Steering light with supercritical coupling

Researchers at National University of Singapore have developed supercritical coupling, a new approach that significantly enhances photon upconversion efficiency. This discovery challenges existing paradigms and opens a new direction in light emission control.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2024

Harnessing light with hemispherical shells

A new research proposes a hemispherical shell shape to optimize organic photovoltaic cells, achieving a 66% increase in light absorption and improved angular coverage. The study presents advanced computational analysis, revealing the remarkable capabilities of this innovative design.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateFeb 16, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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