Researchers have developed a high-performance laser system capable of measuring electron temperature and density in plasma at a world record speed of 20,000 times per second. This breakthrough enables detailed measurements of transient phenomena in plasmas, crucial for understanding and controlling fusion power generation.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2022
Researchers at National Institutes of Natural Sciences observe plasma heating due to electromagnetic waves for the first time. They used a new measurement system to capture ultrahigh-speed data, revealing that Landau damping transfers energy from high-energy particles to electromagnetic waves, which then heat the plasma.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022
Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have successfully applied boron powder to tungsten components in tokamaks, improving plasma confinement and reducing the risk of edge-localized modes. The innovative approach uses a PPPL-developed powder dropper to deposit boron coatings while minimizing disruptions to the magnetic field.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022
Researchers have discovered that resistivity can cause instabilities in plasma edge, making it more stable when included in models. The study aims to design systems for future fusion facilities with improved plasma stability.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 19, 2022
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.
Asteroids like Bennu and Ryugu appear rough due to the loss of fine-grained regolith caused by tiny space dust grains hopping around on their surfaces. This process may help small asteroids migrate faster through space, affecting their orbits.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 11, 2022
Scientists have refined the use of magnetic fields to improve tokamak performance by suppressing instabilities called ELMs. The new technique allows plasma to operate in H-mode for longer periods, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of damage to internal parts.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJun 9, 2022
Researchers at PPPL have discovered that adding tungsten to plasma fuel pellets improves the compression of fuel, increasing fusion yield. The study uses krypton gas to measure X-rays emitted by the pellets, providing new insights into the fusion process.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 8, 2022
Researchers at NIFS have made a groundbreaking discovery in fusion plasmas, finding that turbulence moves faster than heat. This characteristic allows for predictive control of plasma temperature, paving the way for real-time manipulation. The study used advanced instruments to measure turbulent behavior with unprecedented accuracy.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
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Researchers discovered a stronger flow in the plasma core surrounding the thermal insulation layer in deuterium plasmas, leading to better thermal insulation. This finding could improve future fusion power plants using deuterium and tritium as fuels.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022
Researchers have designed simpler magnets for twisty stellarator facilities, which could aid the development of a stellarator power plant. The new magnets have straighter sections than before while preserving their strength and accuracy.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateApr 28, 2022
Researchers at Dartmouth College have developed a new theoretical description of how the Hall effect determines the efficiency of magnetic reconnection. The study reveals that the Hall effect suppresses energy conversion from magnetic fields to plasma particles, enabling rapid energy release and explosive magnetic explosions in space.
SourceDartmouth College·JournalCommunications Physics·DateApr 28, 2022
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Researchers have discovered that magnetic fluctuations can reduce heat load on fusion devices by propagating turbulence. This breakthrough enables a new method for controlling turbulence and maintaining high central temperatures in the plasma.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
A POSTECH research team has developed a platform that can control and measure the properties of solid materials with light. This breakthrough enables the manipulation of quantum states in solids, which can be effectively used in quantum systems.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2022
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed an ultra-high-rate coating technology for functional hard carbon films using vacuum plasma. The new method achieved a film deposition rate exceeding one order of magnitude faster than existing technologies while maintaining the same degree of film quality.
SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022
Scientists at Japan's National Institute for Fusion Science discovered a self-sustained mechanism that controls the heat load on the divertor in a fusion reactor. By analyzing the magnetic island and plasma current mirror, they found a competition between two processes that can be described by a biological predator-prey model, which su...
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022
The US fusion community calls for a cost-effective pilot plant to generate electricity by 2040s. PPPL's study defines performance requirements and proposes a research facility to address key challenges, including heat delivery and plasma current integration.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 2022
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A new simulation suggests that energy released near a black hole's event horizon during magnetic field line reconnection powers the intense flares. The process involves interactions between the magnetic field and material falling into the black hole, releasing hot plasma particles that radiate away as photons.
SourceSimons Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022
Researchers at GIST used ultrafast X-ray pulses to study warm dense copper electrons, revealing that bonds harden before melting. The findings could improve understanding of extraordinary material properties and their underlying mechanisms.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022
Researchers have achieved a record yield of over 1.3 megajoules from fusion reactions at the National Ignition Facility, surpassing previous experiments by an 8-fold and 25-fold margin. This milestone puts scientists at the threshold of fusion ignition, a crucial goal for the facility.
A new study from the University of Southampton demonstrates a safe method to clean and reuse facemask respirators using advanced low-temperature plasma technology. This technique can remove 99.99% of coronavirus while maintaining filter performance, reducing plastic waste by approximately 70%.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAIP Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021
A team at HZB and PTB developed a method to measure the lateral expansion of the electron beam in laser plasma accelerators, achieving resolutions in the micrometre range. This technique uses coherent radiation of electron pulses via interference patterns to determine the beam cross-section.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021
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Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Recent studies suggest that cosmic rays, originating from supernova remnants and pulsars, have a significant impact on galactic dynamics and star formation. The streaming instability triggered by cosmic rays in the interstellar medium can create plasma waves that heat and scatter gas, influencing the formation of planets and stars.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateAug 24, 2021
The Wendelstein 7-X stellarator has demonstrated reduced neoclassical energy transport, lowering plasma energy losses. The optimised magnetic field successfully minimises these losses, a major weakness in conventional stellarators.
SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik (IPP)·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 2021
Researchers have detected the birth and growth phases of high-energy runaway electrons in tokamaks, which can cause damage to the machines. The new diagnostic tool enables scientists to understand the energy content of the plasma and potentially prevent the electrons' damage.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2021
The team uses state-of-the-art X-ray imaging to study plasma discharges in water, providing new insights into the phenomena. The research aims to advance green energy production through methods like fusion, hydrocarbon reforming, and hydrogen generation.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeNews article·DateJul 30, 2021
Laser physicists have built the first compact two-stage plasma-based accelerator, accelerating particles to near-light speed within a few millimeters. The hybrid plasma accelerator has shown more than three orders of magnitude higher acceleration fields than conventional accelerators.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021
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Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
The SPARC project has published seven research papers outlining the physics behind the ambitious reactor design, with calculations suggesting a Q ratio of 10 or more. The device aims to achieve a 'burning plasma,' a self-sustaining fusion reaction, which is crucial for developing practical power-generating plants.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Plasma Physics·DateSep 29, 2020
The DOE's Innovative and Novel Computational Impact on Theory and Experiment program has awarded supercomputer access to 47 science projects for 2020. Projects will explore topics such as galaxy formation, molecular dynamics, and engineering simulations.
Researchers used plasma physics to study how volcanic ash modifies standing shock wave height, width, and lifetime. This discovery enables the tracking of standing shock waves in laboratory experiments, potentially leading to improved ash estimates and early predictions of hazardous plumes.
The US Department of Energy has extended Princeton University's contract to manage and operate the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory through March 31, 2022. The extended contract emphasizes collaboration among the University, lab, and DOE, with a focus on advancing research in fusion energy.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateMar 18, 2019
Researchers investigate how photon mass could influence galaxy rotation curves, potentially explaining the enigmatic 'dark matter'. The study's findings suggest a possible solution to the long-standing rotation-curve problem.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMar 5, 2019
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Researchers at DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory discovered a way to more accurately measure the electrical properties of plasma. They found that a positive charge can sometimes surround probes, contradicting long-held assumptions about the plasma-wall sheath.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMay 29, 2018
Researchers have developed a new laboratory method to study magnetic reconnection, a process giving rise to solar flares and northern lights. The technique enables precise investigation of this phenomenon without overheating the plasma, opening doors to better understanding solar flares' impact on communication systems.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018
Scientists have developed diagnostic tools to improve the controllable and selective fabrication of nanomaterials. New discoveries reveal that molecular precursors govern the synthesis of carbon nanotubes in a purely carbon electric arc. This breakthrough opens the door to improved predictive modeling of nanosynthesis.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Sources Science and Technology·DateMar 8, 2018
Researchers used a lattice-Botzmann method to simulate the impact of microdroplets on dry surfaces, revealing distinct physics at the microscopic level. They found that droplet sizes in spray cooling are three orders of magnitude smaller than previously studied millimeter-size droplets, and that this affects their dynamics.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJul 11, 2017
Researchers at PPPL have discovered a source of fast magnetic reconnection in plasma, which could lead to more accurate predictions of damaging space weather and improved fusion experiments. The finding shows how electron pressure accelerates the process, balancing electric current and preventing halting the reconnection process.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 31, 2017
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Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A new project aims to develop a device that can accumulate and deliver unprecedentedly intense positron pulses. The goal is to investigate exotic states of matter and mixes of matter and antimatter, potentially opening up new areas of experimental research.
SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik (IPP)·DateJan 26, 2017
Scientists develop rigorous new method for modeling the accretion disk that feeds the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. This approach replaces traditional formulas with a kinetic method to trace collisionless particles, improving understanding of plasma behavior and radiative efficiency.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateDec 22, 2016
Scientists have developed a new theoretical framework to improve the stability and intensity of particle accelerator beams. The theory couples vertical and horizontal motions of particles, providing important tools for designing high-intensity beam manipulations.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 15, 2016
Mark Rosin, a physicist, has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his creative and sustainable public engagement strategies. He organizes interactive events that mix science with art, music, and play to reach diverse audiences.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 8, 2016
Researchers at PPPL used 3D printers to create customized parts for experiments, including cones, cylinders, and electrodes. The printed parts proved accurate and reliable, meeting laboratory requirements.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateMar 3, 2015
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DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
The WEGA fusion device is being transferred to the University of Illinois for further research and development. The device will be re-assembled as HIDRA and used for plasma physics and fusion research.
SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik (IPP)·DateSep 22, 2014
Researchers at Princeton University and PPPL are developing a unique process to verify that nuclear weapons contain true warheads. The goal is to confirm the authenticity of inspected items without revealing sensitive information.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateApr 10, 2014
The Princeton University Art of Science 2013 exhibit features top three awards in a juried competition and People's Choice images. The gallery includes structural diagrams resembling flowers, close-up photographs, and worm images, sparking debate among artists about the nature of art.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateMay 16, 2013
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Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
University of Chicago physicists create linked and knotted vortex loops, a feat long elusive in lab experiments. Their work relates to turbulence, plasma physics, ordinary fluids, and superfluids, offering potential solutions to longstanding puzzles.
SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 4, 2013
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have successfully conducted dry-run experiments on a key aspect of their MagLIF nuclear fusion concept. The experiments tested the durability of cylindrical beryllium liners under intense magnetic fields, with promising results that suggest the concept is moving closer to achieving scientific...
SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2012
Researchers confirm existence of spherical magnesium-32 nucleus, contrary to predicted shell structure. The finding has implications for understanding element synthesis in stellar explosions and requires further experiments to refine predictions.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateFeb 2, 2011
The Art of Science 2010 exhibition features breathtaking images created by Princeton researchers, exploring the beauty in scientific inquiry. The competition attracted top talent, with cash prizes awarded to first, second, and third place winners for their visually stunning entries.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateMay 17, 2010
Research focuses on transport phenomena in heterogeneous media, exploring anomalous transport and its role in hydrogeology. The study highlights the importance of concentration tails in assessing radioactive waste disposal reliability.
SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalVadose Zone Journal·DateDec 17, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Miniature smart dust probes are being developed to collect data on fluid systems. Researchers have also created stealthy gas-filled antennas that can be reconfigured for improved signal reception, while a new analysis improves calculations for high-energy physics experiments by factors of a million
Researchers at the Nevada Terawatt Facility have made a significant step forward in understanding fundamental processes required for controlled fusion energy. They developed a new technique to measure mass transport and magnetic field dynamics in low wire array z-pinches, which could lead to improved efficiency in energy transfer.
SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 25, 2006
Researchers have developed a method to visualize the Z machine's key process using a single-frequency crystal. The images reveal that wires do not uniformly disintegrate, but instead heat and melt, with electrical current diverted to the plasma surrounding the dense wire cores.
The US ITER Project Office will be managed by the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This collaboration aims to secure technical assistance, procure hardware contributions, and coordinate US fusion community activities for the international ITER project.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateJul 13, 2004
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AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
The Department of Energy recognizes PPPL's DeLooper for his crucial role in coordinating the Snowmass Fusion Summer Study Workshops, which brought together leading scientists from the US and international community. This success led to a consensus in the fusion community that enabled the Administration to join ITER negotiations.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateMar 28, 2003
Researchers at PPPL and USDA's ERRC are collaborating on a $120,000 project to develop radio frequency pasteurization methods. The new techniques use RF waves and microwave heating to effectively pasteurize raw liquid foods like eggs and milk without overheating them.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateNov 4, 1997