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Surfing a wake of light

Researchers have created and controlled surface plasmon wakes of light-like waves on a metallic surface, demonstrating a new technology with potential applications in nanotechnology and optics. The discovery uses a faster-than-light running wave of charge along a metamaterial to create and steer the wakes.

Hubble sees shock collision inside black hole jet

Astronomers have discovered a rare collision between two high-speed knots of ejected matter in a supermassive black hole jet. The finding suggests that shocks produced by collisions within the jet accelerate particles and brighten the regions of colliding material.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Light in a spin

Researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand have demonstrated the first observation of angular acceleration in laser light, which can be controlled with a single parameter. This breakthrough could lead to new applications using structured light fields.

A glass fiber that brings light to a standstill

Researchers have successfully slowed down light to 180 km/h using a glass fiber, allowing for the storage of photons and potentially enabling quantum communication over long distances. This breakthrough technology uses cesium atoms coupled to an ultrathin glass fiber to transfer photon information in a controlled manner.

Graphene plasmons go ballistic

Researchers at ICFO have discovered a material system that enables highly confined low-loss plasmons in graphene-boron nitride heterostructures, allowing for efficient optical sensing and computing. This breakthrough paves the way for extremely miniaturized optical circuits and devices.

Photonic booms may help illuminate astronomical secrets

Researchers propose using photonic booms to map asteroid surfaces and study celestial objects, offering new insights into the universe. High-speed cameras could capture these flashes, revealing previously unknown information about asteroids and other cosmic bodies.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Fundamentals of physics confirmed

Researchers at Technische Universität Darmstadt confirm time dilation and observe spectral lines in highly charged bismuth ions, achieving unprecedented precision. The experiments test the limits of Einstein's theories under extreme conditions, providing new insights into quantum electrodynamics.

Rush a light wave and you'll break its data, say NIST scientists

Researchers from NIST and University of Maryland's Joint Quantum Institute found that speeding up part of a light beam past the speed of light results in lost quantum data. The team explored what this means for quantum information transfer in quantum computers, suggesting that quantum noise and distortion set an information speed limit.

Astronomers reveal contents of mysterious black hole jets

A team of astronomers discovered that black hole jets contain ordinary atoms, including nickel and iron, which provide the positive charge. The jets are accelerated to high speeds, with some moving at 66% of the speed of light, revealing new insights into their formation.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers slow light to a crawl in liquid crystal matrix

Scientists have developed a new technique to slow down light by embedding dye molecules in a liquid crystal matrix, allowing for more efficient sensing and interferometry applications. The method uses little power, operates at room temperature, and can measure extremely low speeds in just one second of measurement time.

Experimental quest to test Einstein's speed limit

Researchers used dysprosium to measure electron velocity and found the maximum speed of an electron is consistent with the speed of light. The experiment pushes the limits of Einstein's theory, potentially revealing new insights into particle physics.

Ephemeral vacuum particles induce speed-of-light fluctuations

Recent studies suggest that the speed of light may fluctuate due to ephemeral vacuum particles, which could be testable with ultra-fast lasers. Researchers propose that physical constants like speed of light are indications of total elementary particles in nature.

Study reveals a remarkable symmetry in black hole jets

A new study using data from NASA's Swift satellite and Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope shows that high-speed jets launched from active black holes possess fundamental similarities regardless of mass, age or environment. The result provides a tantalizing hint that common physical processes are at work.

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.

Researchers look beyond space and time to cope with quantum theory

Researchers propose an inequality that probes the role of signals in quantum predictions, exposing how they challenge Einstein's theory of relativity. The test, feasible in the near future, will measure a single number, potentially revealing faster-than-light communication or infinitely fast influences.

Astronomers study 2 million light year 'extragalactic afterburner'

Astronomers have discovered a supersonic jet of material from a supermassive black hole at the center of a distant galaxy, resembling an afterburner flow. The jet exhibits bright and dark regions, including regularly spaced areas brighter than the rest, which may provide insight into its formation and power.

Runaway planets zoom at a fraction of light speed

New research reveals that runaway planets exist and can reach speeds of up to 30 million miles per hour, outpacing most objects in the Galaxy. These hypervelocity planets are produced by double-star systems interacting with supermassive black holes.

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.

Gamma-ray bursts' highest power side unveiled by Fermi telescope

Astrophysicists have uncovered new questions and clarified previous theories about gamma-ray bursts using the Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope. The telescope's unique view allows it to capture the highest energy portion of these bursts, which are difficult to detect due to their brief duration and narrow radiation patterns.

Through hardship to the stars

Delegates explored ways to overcome propulsion limitations, including suspended animation and negative mass concepts. Theoretical models offer tantalizing options, but significant hurdles remain before interstellar travel becomes a reality.

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.

Counting atoms with glass fiber

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to detect single atoms using ultra-thin glass fibers, allowing for precise measurement of tiny amounts of substances. The technique enables the control of quantum states without destroying them.

Chalmers scientists create light from vacuum

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have succeeded in creating light from vacuum by capturing photons that appear and disappear in the vacuum. The experiment confirms a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics, demonstrating the existence of virtual particles that can become real photons.

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.

Bending light with better precision

Researchers have created a technique to control the speed and direction of light using memory metamaterials, which can repeatedly change their properties. This innovation enables the manufacture of Gradient Index of Refraction (GRIN) devices for imaging and communication technologies with unprecedented precision.

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.

'Space-time cloak' to conceal events revealed in new study

Researchers from Imperial College London have developed a space-time cloak that can conceal events, making it theoretically possible for objects to move undetected. The cloak exploits metamaterials to create undetectable blind spots in light or sound waves.

'Slow light' on a chip holds promise for optical communications

Scientists at UC Santa Cruz and Brigham Young University have created an optical device that slows down light by a factor of 1,200, enabling potential vast improvements in ultra-low-power performance. The breakthrough holds promise for all-optical quantum communication networks.

RXTE homes in on a black hole's jets

Astronomers using NASA's Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) satellite have confirmed that most of the X-rays in a binary system come from the dual, oppositely directed jets around a black hole. The study provides new insights into the complex behavior of these systems and their extreme environments.

Astronomers find rare beast by new means

Scientists have found a supernova explosion that exhibits characteristics of a gamma-ray burst but lacks gamma rays. The discovery using the National Science Foundation's Very Large Array radio telescope promises to aid in locating more examples of these mysterious events.

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.

NASA's Fermi telescope peers deep into a microquasar

The Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope has detected high-energy gamma-rays from the enigmatic binary system Cygnus X-3, a genuine microquasar. The system's unique properties and strong emission across various wavelengths offer new insights into how high-energy particles are accelerated and move through jets.

Flipping a photonic shock wave

A team of physicists has directly observed a reverse shock wave of light in a specially tailored structure known as a left-handed metamaterial. This is the first unambiguous experimental demonstration of reversed Cerenkov radiation, a phenomenon predicted over forty years ago.

Light at the speed of a bicycle and much more

Advances in optics and photonics are transforming our daily lives with innovations like optical fibers, lasers, and medical imaging techniques. Researchers are now exploring the potential of plasmonics to develop metamaterial-based invisibility cloaks and super-strength solar cells.

Graphene yields secrets to its extraordinary properties

Direct measurement of graphene's energy spectrum reveals unevenly spaced energy levels and a 'zero energy state.' The findings support the idea that graphene layers are uncoupled from adjacent layers due to their unique stacking orientations.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Molecular machines drive plasmonic nanoswitches

Researchers have developed a plasmonic switch using molecular machines, which can transmit electrons and light simultaneously. This technology has the potential to enable ultra-small computers with high storage capacity and processing speed.

Using invisibility to increase visibility

Researchers have created a material that can reflect light from all angles, overcoming optical singularities. This breakthrough could lead to the development of perfect cat's eyes and invisibility devices. The discovery is based on transformation optics and has potential applications in wireless technology and radar.

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.

Princeton scientists spy an electron dance

Researchers from Princeton University have discovered that electrons in bismuth display a highly unusual pattern of behavior under a powerful magnetic field at ultra-low temperatures. This phenomenon, known as a collective state, is a manifestation of quantum mechanics and could lead to new paradigms in computing and electronics.

NASA'S GLAST launch successful

NASA's GLAST mission was launched successfully aboard a Delta II rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The observatory is now on-orbit, with all systems operating as planned.

Delta II rocket coming together for NASA's GLAST satellite launch

The Delta II rocket carrying NASA's Gamma-ray Large Area Telescope (GLAST) is being assembled at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket, fueled by nine solid rocket motors, will search for signs of new laws of physics and explore the universe's most extreme environments.

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.

Racing ahead at the speed of light

Physicists at RHIC have developed a way to measure subtle fluctuations in particle beams and send corrections ahead to smooth out scattering. This technique, called stochastic cooling, aims to recreate the conditions of the early universe, potentially saving time and money.

Radiation flashes may help crack cosmic mystery

Researchers aim to develop an instrument that can reveal crucial data about the nature and origin of cosmic rays. Cerenkov radiation, emitted when particles travel faster than light through the atmosphere, holds key to understanding these enigmatic particles.

Gamma-ray birth cries suggest massive magnetic engines

The GRB's ejecta slam into interstellar gas, producing a bright X-ray afterglow that can radiate for several days. The slow fading of the afterglow suggests a larger energy injection than typical GRBs, with possible explanations including magnetar-powered engines.

Reversing and accelerating the speed of light

Researchers at Ames Laboratory have successfully created metamaterials that can refract light at negative angles, potentially enabling the development of superlenses for medical imaging. This achievement demonstrates a new way to manipulate light's path and speed, moving closer to Einstein's theory of relativity.

Light's most exotic trick yet: So fast it goes … backwards?

Physicist Robert Boyd has successfully demonstrated negative-speed pulses of light, where a pulse travels backwards within an optical fiber. The researchers used erbium-doped fibers to slow down and speed up the light pulse, creating a 'hump' shape with leading and trailing edges.

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.

E=mc2passes tough MIT test

MIT physicists and NIST colleagues report the most precise direct test yet of Einstein's E=mc^2, verifying the formula's accuracy with an unprecedented precision. The team's findings validate the equivalence of energy and mass, strengthening the theory's position in modern physics.

Light that travels... faster than light!

Researchers at EPFL successfully demonstrate controlling the speed of light in an optical fiber, slowing it down by a factor of 3.6 and speeding it up to exceed the speed of light without violating relativity. This breakthrough has significant implications for optical computing and telecommunications.

Berkeley lab physicist challenges speed of gravity claim

A scientist at Berkeley Lab has re-examined the 2002 experiment claiming to measure the speed of gravity and found that it was based on a flawed assumption. The correct formula yields effects significantly smaller than initially thought, making measurement with current technology impractical.

Distant ring of stars found around the Milky Way

A previously unseen band of stars beyond the edge of the Milky Way galaxy has been discovered, approximately 120,000 light years in diameter. The discovery supports the theory that at least part of our galaxy was formed by many smaller or dwarf galaxies mixing together.

Mini-lasers, silicon on sapphire technology lead to speedier chips

Engineers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a cost-effective method to speed up microchip communication by using light beams instead of metal wires. The new technology, known as silicon on sapphire, takes advantage of the unique properties of this material to reduce power consumption and increase data transfer speeds.

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.

Speed of light may not be constant, physicist suggests

John Moffat, a University of Toronto professor, proposes that the speed of light was not always constant but rather increased over time. This theory could help explain recent discoveries about the accelerating expansion of the universe and provide an answer to some cosmology problems.

Seeing Movement In The Dark

Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that moving objects appear slower through rod photoreceptors than cone photoreceptors, especially under low light conditions. This underestimation can lead to compensatory speeding-up, which may be fatal.