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Structural color can now be printed with an inkjet printer

Researchers at Kobe University have developed a method to print structural color using an inkjet printer, enabling the creation of vibrant colors without pigments or dyes. The new technology has potential applications in display and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

SourceKobe University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2026

Researchers make mouse skin transparent using a common food dye

Researchers at Stanford University developed a method to apply an FDA-approved dye to make mouse skin transparent, allowing for non-invasive visualization of internal organs. This breakthrough enables new approaches to biological and diagnostic testing, with potential applications in cancer treatment, blood draws, and cosmetic procedures.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateSep 5, 2024

Discover optimal conditions for mass production of ultraviolet holograms

The study found that an 80% concentration of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) and specific solvents leads to the highest pattern transfer efficiency. The conversion efficiency reaches impressive levels in the ultraviolet spectrum, paving the way for commercial viability of metasurfaces.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateMay 9, 2024

Clear holographic imaging in turbulent environments

A new method called TWC-Swin effectively restores holographic images even under low spatial coherence and arbitrary turbulence, surpassing traditional convolutional network-based methods. The study demonstrates strong generalization capabilities, extending its application to unseen scenes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New metamaterial-based strategy to combine and transmit multiple light modes

A new approach for coupling different light modes enables unprecedented data transfer rates in an MDM system. By using a gradient-index metamaterial waveguide, researchers achieved a high coupling coefficient and created a 16-channel MDM communication system with a data transfer rate of 2.162 Tbit/s.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateSep 15, 2023
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.

Photonic time crystals could open the door to a new branch of optics

Researchers have successfully created photonic time crystals with fast oscillations in refractive index, faster than current theories can explain. This breakthrough has profound implications for the science of light and could enable truly disruptive applications.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

Dark clouds on the horizon

The study improves the accuracy of black carbon's refractive index, revealing it may contribute up to 16% to atmospheric warming, affecting climate models. The method developed can be applied to other particles in the atmosphere and ocean.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2023

New high-speed, two-photon microscope for precise biological imaging

A new high-speed two-photon microscope was developed with an unprecedented line scanning frequency of 400 kHz, achieving up to 10,000 frames per second. This allowed for precise observations of complex biological processes in living tissues, including calcium signal propagation and blood flow measurements.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMay 3, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New approach to developing efficient, high-precision 3D light shapers

Scientists create a simple approach to fabricating highly precise 3D aperiodic photonic volume elements (APVEs) for various applications. The method uses direct laser writing to arrange voxels of specific refractive indices in glass, enabling the precise control of light flow and achieving record-high diffraction efficiency.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateApr 21, 2023

Nanoantennas directing a bright future

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed nanoantennas that significantly increase the efficiency and photoluminescence of white LEDs by replacing aluminum with titanium dioxide. This breakthrough enables the creation of intensely bright yet energy-saving solid-state lighting solutions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022
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.

Metalens offers superior off-axis focus

A team at KAUST has created an ultrathin dielectric metalens that improves focusing capabilities and can be scaled down for integration with photonics equipment. The metalens, designed from a custom array of TiO2 nanopillars atop a DBR, offers negligible intrinsic loss and easy fabrication.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOptica·DateOct 23, 2022

Ahead of the curve: an optical fiber sensor for measuring deviations in the spine

Researchers developed a novel three-core optical fiber sensor to accurately measure both the magnitude and direction of spine curvature. The sensor offers advantages like low cost, high sensitivity, and small size, making it a promising tool for doctors to diagnose problems in spine curvature.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateSep 27, 2022

Optical rule was made to be broken

Engineers at Rice University have discovered a way to manipulate light at the nanoscale that surpasses the traditional Moss rule for optical materials. The researchers found that iron pyrite has a high refractive index, making it suitable for applications such as virtual reality and 3D displays.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

Researchers use infrared light to wirelessly transmit power over 30 meters

A new wireless laser charging system uses infrared light to transfer high levels of power over distances of up to 30 meters, sufficient for charging sensors. The system automatically shifts to a safe low power delivery mode if an object or person blocks the line of sight, achieving hazard-free power delivery in free space.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 30, 2022

Researchers create biosensor by turning spider silk into optical fiber

A new light-based sensor harnesses the light-guiding properties of spider silk to detect and measure small changes in the refractive index of a biological solution, including glucose and other types of sugar solutions. The sensor is practical, compact, biocompatible, cost-effective, and highly sensitive.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 2, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Fiddler crab eye view inspires Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers to develop novel artificial vision

Researchers from GIST have developed an amphibious artificial vision system with a panoramic field-of-view based on the Fiddler crab's eye structure. The system overcomes limitations of current artificial visions, enabling imaging in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

Advances in lithium niobate photonics

Lithium niobate photonics has developed rapidly, enabling compact devices with high performance. Thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) structures have shown significant improvements in refractive index contrast, paving the way for more integrated photonic devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 23, 2022

Drug treatment for cataracts moves a step closer

A team of scientists led by Professor Barbara Pierscionek has made significant progress in developing an anti-cataract drug. Lab trials showed improvement in refractive index profiles and lens opacity in 61% and 46% of cases, respectively.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 16, 2022
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.

In Einstein’s footsteps and beyond

Researchers discovered near-zero index materials where light's momentum becomes zero, altering fundamental processes like atomic recoil and Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. These materials could enable perfect cloaking and have potential applications in quantum computing and optics.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 27, 2022

Now you can see floral scents!​

A team of scientists from KAIST has developed a method to directly measure the frequency of floral scent emissions in lilies using optical interferometry. This technology reveals the temporal pattern of scent release and provides new insights into the ecological evolution of plant-pollinator interactions.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2022

New polymer materials make fabricating optical interconnects easier

Researchers developed new polymer materials with adjustable refractive index, enabling easy creation of optical interconnects between photonic chips and board-level circuits. The technology has the potential to boost Internet data center efficiency by reducing power consumption and heat generation.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateApr 13, 2022

Miniaturized reflectors enlarge uses of remote infrared spectroscopy

Researchers have developed miniaturized reflectors that enlarge the uses of remote infrared spectroscopy, allowing for field-ready devices with minimal size, weight, and power requirements. The devices utilize Ge-BaF2 thin films for surface micromachined mid-wave and long-wave infrared reflectors.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateMar 23, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Seeing inside cells with an integrated nanowire probe

Researchers developed a multifunctional microfiber probe for real-time monitoring of cellular molecules and changes in cell morphology. The nanowire probe enabled sensitive detection of refractive index distribution in single living cells during apoptosis.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 18, 2022

Unbreakable glass inspired by seashells

McGill University scientists created a new glass and acrylic composite material mimicking nacre for exceptional strength and durability. The material is three times stronger and five times more fracture-resistant than regular glass, with potential applications in phone screens and other industries.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Following the bouncing eyeball in augmented reality

Researchers have integrated holographic optical elements to create a waveguide eye-tracking system that can track eye movements in near-infrared wavelengths. This design enables the development of more efficient and powerful augmented reality systems.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2021

Why are optical refractive indices so small?

A recent study published in Physical Review X reveals that the refractive index of dilute atomic gases can only reach a maximum value of 1.7 due to near-field interactions and multiple scattering effects.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 30, 2021
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.

Advanced measurement technology for future semiconductor devices

Researchers used terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to evaluate beta-gallium oxide semiconductor material properties. The technique revealed significant findings on the fundamental properties of the material at THz frequencies, providing valuable information for future power device development.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 25, 2021

Research develops new theoretical approach to manipulate light

Researchers from the University of Exeter have developed a new theoretical approach to force light to travel through electromagnetic materials without reflection. This discovery could pave the way for more efficient communications and wireless technology.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 8, 2020

Researchers confront optics and data-transfer challenges with 3D-printed lens

The study enables the creation of highly specialized light-focusing abilities, increasing data-routing capability in computer chips and optical systems. The researchers' method will impact the manufacturing of complex optical components and advance personal computing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateDec 3, 2020

Producing technicolor through brain-like electronic devices

A POSTECH research team developed a technology to freely change structural colors using IGZO-based color filter, enabling low-power displays and quick color adjustments. The device can transmit vivid colors with extremely low light loss.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalPhotonics Research·DateSep 6, 2020

Sulfur-containing polymer generates high refractive index and transparency?

Researchers developed a novel technology to create a sulfur-containing polymer (SCP) film with excellent environmental stability and chemical resistance, exhibiting a high refractive index of 1.9 while being fully transparent in the entire visible range.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 4, 2020
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.

Controlling light with light

Scientists have created a novel material that can change its refractive index in response to low-intensity laser light, enabling the manipulation of light beams and creation of optical logic gates. This breakthrough could lead to the development of soft, circuitry-free robots driven by light from the sun.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2020

Machine learning increases resolution of eye imaging technology

Researchers at Duke University have developed a method to increase optical coherence tomography resolution down to a single micrometer, enabling live imaging of tissues throughout the body. Machine learning tools are used to compensate for light distortions and create high-quality images.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 27, 2019
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 develop novel framework for tracking developments in optical sensors

A novel framework has been developed to systematically compare optical sensors, enabling the creation of a technology map that tracks developments in this rapidly growing industry. The map provides a comprehensive benchmark for standardizing optical refractive index sensors with plasmonic and photonic structures.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMay 16, 2019

Antireflection coating makes plastic invisible

A new process creates a graded index Teflon-air film that eliminates reflections, making transparent plastics nearly invisible. The technology has practical applications in solar panels, eyeglasses, and virtual/augmented-reality headsets.

SourcePenn State·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 29, 2019
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.

DNA: The next hot material in photonics?

Researchers fine-tune DNA-based thin films to achieve a range of refractive indexes four times greater than silicon, enabling the creation of thinner optical fibers. This could lead to applications in photodynamic therapy, optogenetics, and biosensors.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateOct 2, 2017

Researchers find new way to control light with electric fields

Researchers at NC State University have discovered a method to control light with electric fields, allowing for significant, tunable changes in the refractive index of materials. This breakthrough could lead to applications in virtual reality, animation, and camouflage.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 25, 2017

Cicada wings inspire antireflective surfaces

A team of Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers developed antireflective structures capable of suppressing visible light at different angles of incidence. The structures, inspired by cicada wings, were fabricated using titanium dioxide and show great potential for photovoltaic devices like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 11, 2016
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.

Mixing solids and liquids enhances optical properties of both

By immersing glass particles in a fluid, researchers enhanced the optical properties of both solids and liquids, demonstrating significant changes in diffusivity. The findings have potential applications in imaging, sensing, and photography, including calibrating medical-imaging systems and creating tunable optical devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Photonics·DateJun 9, 2016

Light-powered 3-D printer creates terahertz lens

The new lens uses metamaterials and 3D printing to counter the intrinsic imperfections of typical lenses, enabling flawless images without additional corrective components. The technology has potential applications in biomedical research and security imaging, making terahertz imaging cheaper, higher resolution, and more available.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateApr 29, 2016

Researchers demonstrate record optical nonlinearity

A team of researchers led by Robert W. Boyd has demonstrated up to 100 times greater nonlinearity in indium tin oxide than other known materials, revolutionizing photonics applications. This breakthrough opens the door for more careful study of the material's unique properties and potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Dielectric film has refractive index close to air

A new dielectric film has been developed with a refractive index as low as 1.025, allowing for improved optical properties in photonic devices. The film's mechanical stability is also enhanced, making it suitable for incorporation into electronic devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 12, 2015

Scientists create invisible objects without metamaterial cloaking

Researchers at ITMO University and Australian National University created an invisible cylindrical object in the microwave range without metamaterial coatings. The method is based on Fano resonances, where waves scattered via resonant and non-resonant mechanisms have opposite phases and are mutually destroyed.

SourceITMO University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Large-aperture planar lens antennas with gradient refractive index

Three-dimensional large-aperture GRIN lens antennas are fabricated using multilayer inhomogeneous drilling holes or square ring resonators, offering high gain, broad bandwidth, and dual polarization. A simple flat GRIN lens is used to focus electromagnetic waves with minimal phase changes.

SourceScience China Press·DateDec 31, 2013

UCSB study reveals mechanism behind squids' and octopuses' ability to change color

Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism that allows squid and octopuses to change color by using specialized cells in their skin called iridocytes. The cells create layers or lamellae that operate as tunable Bragg reflectors, allowing the animals to control their transparency and match their surroundings.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJul 25, 2013
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.

Carbon nanotube forest camouflages 3-D objects

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a method to make 3D objects invisible using carbon nanotube forests. By growing a forest of low-density aligned carbon nanotubes on top of an object, it can absorb light and scatter reflections, effectively camouflaging its structure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 21, 2011

MIT creates 3-D images of living cell

Researchers at MIT have developed a technique to create 3D images of living cells, revealing internal structures and enabling the study of cellular function in its native state. The method uses interferometry and refractive index properties, producing high-resolution images with resolutions as low as 150 nanometers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 12, 2007

Researchers create new super-thin laser mirror

The new high-performance mirror, called the high-index contrast sub-wavelength grating (HCG), packs the same reflective punch as current mirrors but is at least 20 times thinner. This characteristic presents critical advantages for today's ever smaller integrated optical devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 13, 2007
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.

New 'liquid lens' data for immersion lithography

Researchers measured key properties of liquids using immersion lithography, including refractive index and molecular size. The NIST report provides useful trends and data to help identify suitable liquids or calibrate measurements.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Optics·DateMar 20, 2006

Purdue 'metamaterial' could lead to better optics, communications

Scientists at Purdue University have created a material with a negative refractive index, a milestone that could lead to better communications and imaging technologies. The discovery uses tiny parallel nanorods of gold to conduct clouds of electrons, allowing for more efficient light transmission.

SourcePurdue University·JournalOptics Letters·DateNov 30, 2005