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A flash of light creates high-performance materials without heating the surface beneath

Researchers developed a technique to control internal structure of semiconductor materials using ultra-fast flashes of light, producing materials with up to 50 times more electrical current from light. The method works on transparent conducting glass, preserving useful properties that conventional heating methods cannot easily achieve.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalSmall Structures·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2026
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.

New strategy improves power conversion efficiency of TOPCon solar cells

Scientists have developed a new synergistic metallization strategy for TOPCon solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 26.31%. The approach reduces optical shading and contact resistance losses, boosting the short-circuit current density to a record high.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2026

KTU researchers eliminate one of the biggest drawbacks of perovskite solar cells

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have created a more stable interface between the different layers of perovskite solar cells, improving their efficiency and operational lifetime. The new concept enables large-area modules to be coated with a uniform layer, allowing for practical application testing.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2026
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.

New strategy improves power conversion efficiency of TOPCon solar cells

Researchers have improved TOPCon solar cells' power conversion efficiency using a new synergistic metallization strategy. This approach enables efficient charge extraction while preserving passivation layers, resulting in high certified PCE of 26.31% and boosted short-circuit current density.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateAug 6, 2026

Charging drones mid-flight with lasers

Researchers have developed a lightweight receiver that captures energy from laser beams and converts it into electricity, enabling wireless charging of drones in mid-air. The technology uses a perovskite laser cell-thermoelectric tandem device to generate power, overcoming the challenge of battery life for long-duration missions.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter & Light·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Perovskite triple-junction solar cells: GO/SAM bilayers make them even more efficient

Researchers at HZB developed a novel perovskite triple-junction solar cell with a GO/SAM bilayer, achieving an efficiency of 27.3% and retaining over 90% of its original efficiency after 770 hours. This study demonstrates the potential of all-perovskite multi-junction solar cells for high power conversion efficiencies.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2026

CityUHK researchers achieve first-ever recycling spin-triplet excitons for power generation, boosting organic photovoltaics efficiency to 20.5%

Researchers from CityUHK successfully recycle spin-triplet excitons, increasing power conversion efficiency in organic photovoltaics to 20.5%. By fine-tuning the side-chain structure and exciton delocalisation, they facilitate the dissociation of triplet excitons, paving the way for next-generation high-performance organic solar cells.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

CIGS-perovskite tandem cell achieves record efficiency of 25.5%

A new record for a CIGS-perovskite tandem solar cell has been set with an efficiency of 25.5%, converting 25.5% of sunlight into electrical energy. The team achieved this efficiency through the use of optimized intermediate layers and a combination of CIGS and perovskite materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJoule·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 1, 2026

A dynamic molecular sunscreen for perovskite solar cells

Researchers introduce a photoisomeric additive that anchors mobile ions and stabilizes the material during UV exposure, improving device performance. The study shows improved film quality, reduced degradation, and enhanced power conversion efficiency.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateJun 2, 2026
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 passivation strategy boosts perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell performance

Researchers have developed a new passivation strategy to improve the efficiency and operational stability of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells. The method uses polystyrene nanospheres as a template to deposit an insulating layer, suppressing electrical leakage and achieving high power conversion efficiencies.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2026

Solar power leaves land behind as floating systems gain ground

A study by National Taipei University of Technology found that offshore floating solar systems can generate up to 12% more electricity than traditional land-based systems. This increased energy output leads to greater carbon emission reductions due to the cooling effect of surrounding water, which absorbs heat and improves efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 19, 2026

NTU Singapore scientists develop near-invisible solar cells that could turn windows into power generators

Researchers at NTU Singapore created perovskite solar cells that are 10,000 times thinner than human hair and achieved high power conversion efficiencies. These semi-transparent cells could be integrated into buildings, vehicles, and wearable devices without changing their appearance.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2026

Chemical hardness engineering boosts perovskite tandem efficiency to 30.3%

Researchers developed an additive design strategy to control crystallization in all-perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 30.3%. The strategy promotes homogeneous nucleation and uniform crystal growth, improving film uniformity and reducing defects.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2026
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.

Universal model provides design standards for efficient and durable perovskite solar cells

A new universal model explains and guides energy level alignment in perovskite solar cell interfaces using hole-collecting monolayers, enabling optimized interfacial energy levels and reduced development time. The study provides practical guidance for designing materials with improved performance for emerging solar technologies.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026
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.

Is that solar panel pointing in the right direction?

A new technique uses a single image to forecast solar panel energy production and maximize output. The method estimates the amount of energy that will be produced based on the angle of the sun, shadows, reflections, and weather patterns, allowing for more accurate placement and optimization of solar panels in urban areas.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalSolar Energy·DateApr 21, 2026

Electrons can do it all

Using three-dimensional electron diffraction, researchers demonstrate that electrons can provide averaged structural information previously accessible only with X-rays. They also optimize the electron dose and develop tailored acquisition strategies to probe highly sensitive nanocrystalline structures while preserving the material.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 15, 2026

“Perfectly symmetrical” 2D perovskites boost energy transport

Rice University scientists have created a new type of two-dimensional semiconductor that exhibits no distortions, allowing for efficient energy transfer. The material's performance is an order of magnitude better than previously reported perovskites, making it suitable for applications such as solar cells and tandem devices.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Synthesis·DateApr 3, 2026
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 strategy unlocks 29.76% efficiency for all-perovskite tandem solar cells

Researchers developed an innovative colloidal chemistry strategy to enhance the performance of all-perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving a power conversion efficiency of 29.76%. The unified carboxylate-based modulator system regulates nucleation dynamics, suppressing phase segregation and promoting uniform crystal growth.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2026

Making perovskite solar cells weather-resistant

TUM researchers have identified the microscopic causes of instability in perovskite solar cells and developed a strategy to prevent degradation through temperature swings. They discovered that a 'burn-in' phase triggers early loss of relative performance, but using special organic molecules as spacers can stabilize the material.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2026

‘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.

SourceKyushu University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2026
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.

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.

When records are not enough

A team of scientists and industry experts investigated the challenges of developing new solar cells, including copper indium gallium diselenide and perovskite. They recommend focusing on material resilience, stability, and sustainability to ensure long-term success.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa)·JournalNature Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 24, 2026

Explaining next-generation solar cells

Researchers at ISTA discover perovskites' unique photovoltaic properties rely on structural defects, enabling long-range charge transport. This finding accelerates the transition of next-gen perovskite solar cells to real-world applications.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2026

Cleaner solar manufacturing could cut global emissions by eight billion tonnes

A new international study found that deploying next-generation solar panels at scale could reduce global carbon emissions by up to 8.2 billion tonnes by 2035. The technology, known as tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) photovoltaics, has lower environmental impacts in fifteen out of sixteen categories compared to the incumbent PE...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2026
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 two-layer strategy pushes perovskite solar cells toward long-term stability

A new bilayer perovskite strategy improves long-term stability in solar cells by combining a hybrid organic-inorganic absorber with an ultrathin inorganic capping layer. The approach delivers record-level efficiency together with exceptional operational stability, demonstrating a viable pathway toward durable, high-performance perovski...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournaleScience·DateFeb 4, 2026
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.

Physicists predict significant growth for cadmium telluride photovoltaics

A team of University of Toledo physicists predicts significant growth for cadmium telluride photovoltaics in the US, with a target manufacturing capacity of 100 gigawatts by 2030. The technology offers advantages over silicon photovoltaics, including improved performance in hot and humid climates, and supports national energy security.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalJoule·DateJan 27, 2026

SwRI evaluates fire risks associated with solar panel installations

Researchers tested large-scale roofing assemblies with mounted PV solar panels, exposing the leading edge to flame and crosswind to understand fire hazards. The study aims to update building codes and fire mitigation protocols for commercial and industrial solar panel installations.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateJan 12, 2026
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.

NUS researchers achieve breakthrough in stabilizing vapor-deposited perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, paving the way for real-world deployment

The new vapour-deposition method delivers unprecedented durability in perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells, achieving over 30% power-conversion efficiency and operating stability exceeding 2,000 hours. This breakthrough paves the way for real-world deployment of tandem solar modules.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2025

Jeonbuk National University researchers reveal new interface engineering strategy for efficient and stable back-contact solar cells

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new interface engineering strategy for back-contact solar cells, which can improve efficiency and stability. The team created a bilayer tin oxide electron transport layer that enhances interfacial contact and reduces recombination losses.

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateDec 17, 2025

Chonnam National University researchers resolve long-standing limitation in thin-film solar cells

Researchers at Chonnam National University have developed a new approach to thin-film solar cells using a nanometric germanium oxide layer, resulting in improved performance and device stability. The innovative design boosts power conversion efficiency by up to 4.81%.

SourceChonnam National University, The Research Information Management Team, Office of Research Promotion·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2025

Solar panels over crops may boost farmworkers’ comfort

Agrivoltaics systems can significantly augment quality of life for farmworkers by providing shelter from the sun, cooler drinking water, and reduced fatigue. Researchers found that these systems can reduce wet bulb globe temperature by up to 5.5 degrees Celsius, making them a crucial tool in protecting farmworkers from heat stress.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateDec 15, 2025

Acid-treated carbon nanotubes boost efficiency and stability of flexible perovskite solar modules

Researchers have developed flexible perovskite solar modules with power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 20% using acid-treated carbon nanotubes as window electrodes. These modules exhibit improved stability, bendability, and scalability, making them a promising solution for sustainable energy systems.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

National Academy of Inventors to induct Jay Guo

L. Jay Guo, University of Michigan professor, recognized for scalable nanopatterning technology enabling next-gen flexible electronics and structural color applications. His work has attracted interest from major companies like Samsung and Toyota.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 11, 2025

Free radicals caught in the act with slow spectroscopy

Scientists have detected the faint signals of electrons in organic materials, revealing new insights into the physics of photodegradation and long-term photoemission processes. By reimagining conventional spectroscopy setups, researchers have captured the exact mechanisms of weak charge accumulation, providing direct evidence for multi...

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2025

New annealing method unlocks stable, high-efficiency organic solar cells

The VTA method creates an optimal internal architecture within photovoltaic material, resulting in devices with high performance and extended stability. Champion cells reached 20.5% power conversion efficiency and demonstrated improved structural organization and reduced degradation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2025
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.

Bright prospects for tin perovskite solar cells

A new study found that tin-perovskite solar cells have significantly lower ion density and degrade five times slower than lead-based cells. The tin material also exhibits excellent stability during operation, paving the way for developing innovative thin-film solar cells.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

UCO designs a “big brother” system to monitor solar plants

A new monitoring system using synchronized sensors provides detailed information on solar plant performance every tenth of a second, enabling more accurate predictions. This allows for more realistic auction settings and improved grid stability.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateNov 14, 2025