The new extreme ultraviolet facility allows for investigation of time-dependent phenomena and reveals details of biological or physical samples with unprecedented clarity. It offers ultrashort pulses with high frequencies, useful for probing fast phenomena and investigating the structure and chemical properties of matter.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a self-erasing chip that can store authentication information or secret messages. The chip uses a new material that emits light in specific frequencies, which can be erased with a flash of blue light, making it suitable for anti-counterfeit measures and secure data transmission.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateSep 24, 2020
Researchers at RMIT University developed a hyper-efficient broadband photodetector that can see all shades of light, shrinking it by 1,000 times while maintaining speed and low-light sensitivity. The device has potential applications in biomedical imaging, motion detection, and fibre optic communication.
SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 22, 2020
A study by Hiroshima University researchers found that a specific wavelength of UV light effectively kills the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The 222 nm UVC light is safer to use around humans and can be used to disinfect occupied public spaces, including hospitals.
SourceHiroshima University·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateSep 17, 2020
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.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a new method for producing polymer gel objects from pure monomer solutions using low-energy, visible light. This process has the potential to overcome current challenges in producing these materials and sheds light on the ways in which low energy photons can combine to produce high ener...
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChem·DateSep 16, 2020
Researchers have created photopolymer resins that speed up visible-light curing, enabling faster 3D printing of stiff and soft objects. The optimized mix allows build speeds of up to 1.8 inches per hour, opening up new applications for 3D printing.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 16, 2020
A team of researchers at KIT demonstrated that DNA damage can occur up to 30 DNA building blocks away from the entry point of UV radiation. This finding has significant implications for understanding DNA photodamage and its role in skin cancer.
SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 14, 2020
Researchers have developed a simpler detection procedure to identify and purify specific proteins from complex mixtures. The new method uses a UV-excitable fluorophore that binds to polyhistidine tags, allowing for easy detection of tagged proteins in gel electrophoresis.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 9, 2020
Researchers at RUDN University have developed a new type of two-dimensional nanofilm from calixarene molecules, which can be used as protective coatings in electronics. The films' stability was found to depend on the length of hydrocarbon chains in the original macromolecules.
SourceRUDN University·JournalMaterials Today Communications·DateSep 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers have created a new kind of liquid scintillator by combining perovskite nanocrystals with organic molecules, enabling efficient X-ray detection and high-resolution imaging. The hybrid material outperforms conventional scintillators in terms of quantum yield and scintillation decay time.
SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateSep 9, 2020
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a tiny photonic chip that can fit within the tip of a finger, enabling fast and accurate chemical characterization. The device is capable of detecting various molecules in a sample with a sensitivity 10 times higher than traditional Raman spectroscopy systems.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 28, 2020
A team of scientists using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has mapped the immense envelope of gas surrounding the Andromeda galaxy, our nearest large galactic neighbor. The study reveals a layered structure with two main shells of gas, and sheds light on the fuel for future star formation and outflows from supernovae.
QUT researchers develop a novel molecular coupling tool using green light and pH triggers, enabling catalyst-free chemical reactions. The tool has potential applications in drug delivery and 3D cell culture platforms, with the ability to control photoreactivity using varying pH levels.
SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2020
Scientists at Nagoya University found that a thin top layer of azobenzene-containing plastic film needs to be light-sensitive to induce movement. The discovery could lead to cost reductions and revolutionize the material's use in various industries.
SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 22, 2020
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.
A new study led by University of Illinois astronomer Brian Fields explores the possibility that astronomical events were responsible for an extinction event 359 million years ago. Researchers found evidence suggesting long-lasting ozone-depletion, which could be caused by killer cosmic rays from nearby supernovae.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2020
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new image processing technique that enhances the resolution of low-quality electron micrographs using deep neural networks. The method leverages pairs of low- and high-resolution images to train AI algorithms, allowing for detailed analysis without damaging specimen samples.
Researchers sent perovskite and organic solar cells on a rocket into space, withstanding extreme conditions to produce power from direct sunlight and reflective light. The technology offers a promising solution for future space missions, as it is incredibly light and flexible, producing up to 14 milliwatts per square centimeter.
Researchers developed a 1cm by 1cm soft robot that can remove contaminants from water using a magnetic field and light. The artificial aquatic polyp can guide suspended targets towards it, and then activate its tentacles to grasp and release particles.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020
Researchers at EPFL have created a technology to amplify light inside hollow-core optical fibers filled with air, increasing the light intensity significantly. This breakthrough enables longer-distance transmission and potential applications in thermometers and temporary optical memory.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 10, 2020
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.
Researchers at Yokohama National University have developed a novel light-based reaction that yields high numbers of a key chemical component. The method uses green visible light to selectively reorganize chemical components, resulting in the production of multisubstituted cyclobutanes with high efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
SourceYokohama National University·JournalOrganic Letters·DateAug 3, 2020
Researchers at Tohoku University developed faster LED-based optical wireless technology using deep ultraviolet light, overcoming solar interference issues in traditional Li-Fi systems. The new LEDs enable quicker communication speeds and are suitable for use in 5G wireless networks.
SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 30, 2020
Researchers found distinct responses to ultraviolet and other colors of light between day- and night-biting mosquito species. The study's findings have important implications for using light to control harmful insects.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 27, 2020
A newly discovered CoO-TiO2 compound effectively stops listeria monocytogenes reproduction in both light and dark conditions, offering a potential solution for controlling bacterial contamination in food products.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Environmental Chemical Engineering·DateJul 27, 2020
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.
Astronomers have spotted a spectacular UV flash accompanying a type Ia supernova, providing clues to understanding how white dwarfs explode and creating iron. The event may also shed light on dark energy and the universe's formation.
Researchers at Harvard SEAS create device that can shape near-field light into various forms using waveguide reflectors. The resulting shapes can be used for ultra-high-resolution microscopy, particle manipulation and sensing applications.
SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2020
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a simple device to convert circularly polarized visible laser light into circularly polarized vacuum ultraviolet light, twisted in the opposite direction. This new method can be useful for researchers in medicine, life sciences, molecular chemistry and solid state physics.
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.
Researchers have successfully developed a method to 'upconvert' low energy light into visible light using oxygen, enabling it to be captured by solar cells. This breakthrough has the potential to increase the efficiency of solar cells and expand their sensitivity range.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 20, 2020
Scientists have developed a new class of light-powered, remotely controlled grippers grown on optical fibers. These micro-tools can change shape in response to light and are vital for various technologies. The researchers used liquid crystal elastomer technology to create the micro-grippers.
SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 15, 2020
Researchers developed a tiny plastic robot that moves under the influence of light and magnetism, allowing it to attract and capture contaminant particles from the surrounding liquid or pick up and transport cells. The robot operates independently of the water composition, making it suitable for use in contaminated water.
SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2020
Researchers monitored air temperature, humidity, and particulate matter pollution during the 2019-20 Australian bushfires. The study found specific combinations of air temperature and relative humidity led to higher pollutant accumulation, highlighting the importance of understanding microclimatic impacts on urban areas.
SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·DateJul 9, 2020
Researchers created a super white paint that reflects up to 98% of incoming solar radiation, potentially reducing indoor temperatures and air conditioner use by radiative cooling. The innovative paint formula replaces titanium oxide with barite and Teflon, offering improved reflectivity and reduced heat absorption.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJoule·DateJul 8, 2020
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.
Rice University engineers found that boron nitride can destroy 99% of PFOA in four hours through light activation, outperforming previously reported catalysts. The discovery suggests the potential for using boron nitride as a tool to address PFAS pollution.
SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 7, 2020
Researchers at KAUST discovered that giant clam iridocytes absorb UV radiation and re-emit it as useful light for photosynthesis. This photoprotective effect enables clams to live in shallow tropical waters with high UV radiation levels.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJul 5, 2020
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that far-UVC light can safely kill more than 99.9% of seasonal coronaviruses present in airborne droplets. Continuous exposure to far-UVC light could greatly reduce the level of airborne virus in indoor environments occupied by people.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2020
Researchers have developed a new high-energy hollow fiber compressor beamline to generate intense attosecond harmonic radiation for nonlinear XUV spectroscopy studies. The system achieves 1.5-optical-cycle-long laser pulses with 1.2 terawatt peak power at kilohertz repetition rate, breaking a 10-year-old record.
SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 23, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Studies suggest ultraviolet light is an efficient method to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission in indoor spaces. By irradiating UV-C sources inside ventilation systems, airborne and surface-deposited viruses can be quickly deactivated, protecting millions of workers worldwide.
SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 22, 2020
Researchers trained wild hummingbirds to discriminate between UV color combinations, revealing they can see up to five nonspectral colors. The study used a custom LED tube system and recorded over 6,000 feeder visits, showing birds can distinguish between various UV+color pairs.
SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a 2D nanosheet that can adsorb near-infrared light and modify cell behavior. This discovery holds promise for controlling cellular functions using light, which could lead to new approaches in cancer treatment and regenerative medicine.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2020
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.
Scientists at University of Warsaw and ETH Zurich have synthesized active microparticles that self-propel in a fluid and reverse their direction based on wavelength. This breakthrough enables exploration of synthetic microswimmers with potential applications in diagnostics and medicine.
SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020
Researchers developed a thermoluminescent material that responds to UV radiation, overcoming current limitations in personal and environmental UV dosimetry. The new material enables accurate detection of UV exposure and has potential applications in various fields.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Luminescence·DateJun 2, 2020
A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a handheld ultraviolet light device that can effectively disinfect areas by killing the novel coronavirus. The device uses high-performance UV LEDs emitting a high intensity of UV light, which is currently limited by transparent electrode materials.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Physics Communications·DateJun 1, 2020
Researchers at Colorado State University used riboflavin and UV light to eliminate a large amount of SARS-CoV-2 virus from plasma and whole-blood products, demonstrating its feasibility as a pathogen reduction technology.
SourceColorado State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 29, 2020
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.
Researchers discovered that a brief ozone layer collapse led to the extinction of plant and freshwater aquatic life 360 million years ago. This finding has profound implications for our warming world today, as Earth's temperatures may reach comparable levels, potentially triggering a similar event.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 27, 2020
The study aims to develop optical radiation products used in large-scale sanitation processes and create a lamp with both germicidal and lighting elements. Researchers will test different wavelengths of ultraviolet light against coronaviruses like COVID-19.
The Penium margaritaceum genome provides insights into the origins of land plants by revealing footprints of adaptations for UV radiation protection and cell wall structure. The genome contains genes involved in regulatory systems, hormone signaling, and mucilage production, which are essential for structural support.
The UVA team collaborated with Peking University and Caltech to develop a broadest recorded microcomb spectral span, generating light in the ultraviolet to infrared spectrum. This achievement increases the usefulness of microcombs in spectroscopy, optical clocks, and astronomy calibration.
SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 21, 2020
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a polymer composite material with bismuth trioxide particles that can effectively shield against ionizing radiation while being lightweight and non-toxic.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNuclear Engineering and Technology·DateMay 11, 2020
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.
Researchers developed an ultra-high resolution imaging technique using Extreme Ultraviolet radiation, producing extraordinary detail compared to traditional light microscope images. The method has the potential to aid the analysis of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 5, 2020
Researchers found that heating N95 masks preserves their filtration efficiency for 50 cycles of disinfection. Heating at 185 F for 20 minutes was the most effective method, while ultraviolet radiation allowed up to 20 cycles of disinfection but could be problematic.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 5, 2020
A new study published in Journal of Functional Foods finds that daily BioCell Collagen ingestion reduces wrinkles, increases skin elasticity, and maintains hyaluronic acid content in humans. The supplement's unique matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II peptides, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid helps combat UVB-induced photoaging.
SourceMWWPR·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·DateMay 4, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers at NIST create a brick made of white flour mixed with fluorescent powder to visualize the spread of drug particles under UV light. They find that frequent glove changes, large-mouth vials, and two sets of wash bottles can minimize particle spread.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateApr 22, 2020
Chemists have developed a titanium catalyst that makes light usable for selective chemical reactions, producing highly selective products that can be used for antiviral drugs or luminescent dyes. The new catalyst uses green light to trigger reactions without destroying organic compounds.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 20, 2020
Cornell University chemists have developed a new polymer that degrades by ultraviolet radiation, reducing persistent plastic accumulation in the environment. The material, isotactic polypropylene oxide, has mechanical properties comparable to commercial fishing gear and can break down on a realistic time scale.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 20, 2020
Researchers at University of California - Santa Barbara develop ultraviolet LEDs that can decontaminate surfaces, floors, and HVAC systems. The technology has the potential to sanitize personal protective equipment, medical settings, and public spaces without causing burns or eye damage.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalACS Photonics·DateApr 14, 2020
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.
The James Webb Space Telescope will study three dense clouds, known as infrared-dark clouds, to understand the formation process of massive stars. These clouds are thought to be raw dough before baking, providing a unique window into the environment needed for star birth.
A hybrid material has been developed that can detect a broad range of light wavelengths, from ultraviolet to near infrared, due to its small bandgap. The material's electronic properties were investigated, revealing promising results for optoelectronic applications.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 9, 2020
A Korean research team has developed a multi-functional luminescent film that can visualize near-infrared light through wavelength conversion, increasing its application range. The film's high efficiency enables the use of infrared or ultraviolet light for displays or imaging devices.
SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 8, 2020
Researchers at Kobe University have demonstrated that 222nm UVC is safe for human skin and eyes, contrary to previous concerns about its carcinogenic effects. The study used xeroderma pigmentosum model mice to test the safety of repeated exposure to 222nm UVC, finding no adverse effects on their eyes or skin.
SourceKobe University·JournalPhotochemistry and Photobiology·DateApr 7, 2020
Researchers designed a polymer that can twist and bend in response to light, mimicking human muscle movement. The polymer's chiral structure changes direction when exposed to different light sources, enabling simultaneous bending and twisting motions.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 7, 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.
A team of scientists and engineers from 10 universities created a web portal (N95decon.org) providing best practices for decontaminating and reusing N95 masks. The website synthesizes scientific literature on mask decontamination methods, including heat, UV-C light, and hydrogen peroxide vapors.
SourceStanford University School of Engineering·DateApr 2, 2020