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Shining (star)light on the search for life

The SISTINE mission aims to identify signs of life on exoplanets by analyzing the radiation from their host stars. Astronomers have found that false-positive biomarkers can be created through non-biological processes, making it essential to study the star's spectrum to distinguish between true and false positives.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2019
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.

Ozone threat from climate change

A new study found that rising temperatures due to climate change will increase the number of days with high concentrations of ozone in the Mid-Atlantic region, posing significant health risks. The study, led by Cristina Archer, analyzed nearly 50 years' worth of data and found that near-ground ozone levels can exacerbate respiratory co...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateJul 23, 2019

What happens when you explode a chemical bond?

Researchers use ultra-fast lasers to study chemical bond dissociation, shedding light on molecular behavior. The technique allows for detailed understanding of photochemical reactions and potential manipulation of chemical bonds.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 11, 2019

On the way to nanotheranostics

A new nanotheranostic system uses silica-coated bismuth-ferrite harmonic nanoparticles to combine diagnostic imaging with targeted drug delivery, overcoming limitations of previous approaches. The system allows for medically safe release of therapeutics upon near-infrared light activation.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 8, 2019

Hubble captures the galaxy's biggest ongoing stellar fireworks show

Astronomers have discovered a large amount of warm gas ejected in the Great Eruption of Eta Carinae, revealing an astonishingly different ultraviolet-light image. The newly revealed gas is important for understanding how the eruption began and could be used to study other stars and gaseous nebulas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 1, 2019
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.

Damage to the ozone layer and climate change forming feedback loop

A new report reveals that ozone-driven climate change is having far-reaching impacts on the Earth's ecosystems, from weather patterns to sea mammal populations. The study found that warmer oceans are benefiting some species, while others are declining due to changes in ocean productivity and acidification.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 24, 2019

A solarium for hens? How to increase the vitamin D content of eggs

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have found a way to further increase the vitamin D content of eggs by exposing chickens to UV light. This method works under practical conditions and could represent an important step towards supplying the population with vitamin D.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPoultry Science·DateJun 24, 2019
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.

Accurate probing of magnetism with light

A team of researchers has developed a new experimental and theoretical framework to interpret spectroscopic signals from magnetic materials when probed with extreme ultraviolet radiation. This allows for the disentanglement of signals from different elements in the material, enabling the study of complex dynamic processes.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 3, 2019

Hubble spies curious galaxy moving a little closer

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured an image of the galaxy Messier 90, which is moving towards the Milky Way at a speed of approximately 60 million light-years. This rare phenomenon is known as blueshift, where the galaxy's light is compressed and shifted towards the blue end of the spectrum.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 24, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pinterest homemade sunscreens: A recipe for sunburn

A study found that nearly all Pinterest pins for homemade sunscreens positively portrayed their effectiveness but offered insufficient UV radiation protection. The researchers emphasized the importance of using commercially sold and regulated sunscreen products to protect against skin cancer.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalHealth Communication·DateMay 20, 2019

How a member of a family of light-sensitive proteins adjusts skin color

A team of scientists found that opsin 3, a protein related to rhodopsin, regulates melanin production in human skin cells. Without opsin 3, the skin produces more pigment, resulting in darker skin color. The study reveals a new paradigm for opsins and may lead to treatments for pigmentation disorders.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019

Novel molecular multi-step photoswitches caught in the act

Scientists have caught a new class of molecular switches in action, revealing the full sequence of structural transformations. The discovery sheds light on how thermal steps work and provides new control mechanisms to improve switch performance.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 8, 2019

Polymer reversibly glows white when stretched

Researchers developed a first-of-its-kind elastic polymer blend that displays white fluorescence when deformed and then goes dark after relaxing. The material's color can be tailored by using different fluorescent rings, enabling the creation of a white-light-emitting polymer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 24, 2019

New nanomaterial to replace mercury

Researchers at NTNU have created a new electronic component that emits ultraviolet light, replacing traditional fluorescent lamps with a non-toxic and cheaper alternative. The technology has the potential to increase market demand for UVC products by 40% annually.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 24, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Glowing millipede genitalia help scientists tell species apart

Researchers at the Field Museum used UV light to reveal differences in millipede genitals, enabling them to identify eight separate species, four fewer than previously recognized. The discovery has implications for environmental monitoring and understanding climate change.

SourceField Museum·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateApr 18, 2019

A light-activated remote control for cells

Scientists develop DNA nanodevice that uses near-infrared light to guide stem cells to wounds, promoting muscle tissue regrowth in mice. The system successfully activated receptors, causing cells to move and grow, with treated mice showing increased signs of regeneration.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 17, 2019

Life could be evolving right now on nearest exoplanets

New study models UV environments of nearby exoplanets, finding they could support life despite high radiation levels. The researchers argue that life has survived similar conditions on Earth and suggests the possibility of life existing today on planets like Proxima-b.

SourceCornell University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 9, 2019
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.

The future of agriculture is computerized

Researchers at MIT's Media Lab have created basil plants with enhanced flavor and potential health benefits using computer algorithms. The team used hydroponic containers with controlled environmental conditions to grow the plants, which were then analyzed for volatile compounds. Machine learning algorithms evaluated millions of possib...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2019

Sunscreen application has better face coverage than SPF moisturizers

A study published in PLOS ONE found that SPF moisturizer users incompletely cover their eyelid regions during application. The researchers compared sunscreen and moisturizer application and found significantly better coverage with sunscreen. This highlights the importance of using sunscreen for optimal sun protection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2019

Nanomaterials give plants 'super' abilities (video)

Researchers have created plants that can produce metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a type of nanomaterial, which can be used to detect chemicals and protect against harmful UV rays. The augmented plants could potentially perform useful new functions and may lead to applications in agriculture and space exploration.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 3, 2019

How light from street lamps and trees influence the activity of urban bats

A study found that urban bats' responses to artificial light vary across species, seasons, and lamp types. Tree cover mitigates the negative effects of light pollution on bat activity, allowing some species to thrive in areas with high tree density. However, most species are repelled by street lamps, regardless of UV emission.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 27, 2019
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.

Light provides control for 3D printing with multiple materials

Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a novel 3D printer that uses patterns of visible and ultraviolet light to dictate which monomers are polymerized, yielding multi-material parts. Researchers can now control the material properties by designing digital images that guide the light direction.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2019

Controlling thermal conductivity of polymers with light

Researchers have designed a novel polymer that can switch its thermal conductivity in response to light, enabling on-demand heat routing. The material's unique behavior has potential applications in managing heat for sensitive electronics and keeping electrical devices warm.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2019

'Goldilocks' stars may be 'just right' for finding habitable worlds

A new study finds that K stars, which are dimmer than the Sun but brighter than faintest stars, may be particularly promising targets for searching for signs of life. K stars live a long time and have less extreme activity in their youth, giving them plenty of time for life to evolve.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 7, 2019
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.

Scientists develop a tunable bio-imaging device using terahertz plasmonics

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a frequency-tunable plasmonic-based THz device for non-invasive biological imaging. The new device shows improved ability to distinguish between different tissues, opening up possibilities for enhanced diagnostic imaging tools.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 2019

Gotcha! Scientists fingerprint proteins using their vibrations

Researchers have created a technique to quickly measure protein vibrations, enabling faster analysis of proteins' microscopic movements. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient biological research and the development of new biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2019

New quantum sensor could improve cancer treatment

The new quantum sensor developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo promises significant advancements in long-range 3D imaging and monitoring the success of cancer treatments. The sensors can detect single particles of light with high timing resolution, speed, and efficiency over an unparalleled wavelength range.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 4, 2019

Light wakes up freshwater bacteria

Researchers discovered that freshwater bacteria grow faster in daylight and use blue light absorption mechanisms to regulate growth. The study suggests that these bacteria have special genes that allow them to sense light and adjust their metabolism accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateFeb 27, 2019
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.

Firefly-inspired surfaces improve efficiency of LED lightbulbs

Researchers at Penn State developed firefly-mimicking structures to improve light extraction efficiency in LEDs, achieving up to 90 percent. Asymmetric microstructures increase surface area for interaction with light and promote randomization of reflections, allowing more light to escape.

SourcePenn State·JournalOptik·DateFeb 19, 2019

The first walking robot that moves without GPS

AntBot, a new robot developed by CNRS and Aix-Marseille University, replicates the navigation capabilities of desert ants using polarized light and optical sensors. The robot can explore its environment and return to its base with precision, covering distances of up to 14 meters.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 13, 2019
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.

How poppy flowers get those vibrant colors that entice insects

Poppies' colorful petals contain high concentrations of pigment, which causes efficient scattering of light. The unique shape of the pigmented cells creates air-filled gaps that reflect light on the cell/air boundary, resulting in striking colors.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of Comparative Physiology A·DateFeb 8, 2019

New method uses ultraviolet light to control fluid flow and organize particles

Researchers develop a simple and inexpensive method using ultraviolet light to gather and organize particles in liquids, enabling precise control of fluid flow and potential applications in sensing, drug delivery, and nanotechnology. The method shows promise for sorting particles by size and moving uphill toward the light source.

SourcePenn State·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJan 22, 2019

Green fluorescence from reef-building corals attracts symbiotic algae

Researchers discovered that corals emit green fluorescence, attracting symbiotic dinoflagellates and potentially aiding coral recovery after bleaching. This biological signal enhances the chances of meeting new symbionts, suggesting a possible mechanism for corals to recover from heat stress-induced losses.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 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.

Chirality in 'real-time'

Scientists have created a system to probe biomolecules' chiral properties in real-time, providing insights into their biological function. The setup allows for the detection of enantiomers at picosecond resolution, overcoming previous limitations.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalOptica·DateJan 10, 2019

More stable light comes from intentionally 'squashed' quantum dots

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory developed a new method to intentionally 'squash' colloidal quantum dots, creating dots capable of stable, blink-free light emission. This approach suppresses spectral fluctuations in single-dot emission and results in spectrally narrow light with highly stable intensity.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 10, 2019
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.

'Environmentally friendly' flame retardant could degrade into less safe compounds

Researchers found that a promising eco-friendly flame retardant, polymeric flame retardant (polyFR), can break down into potentially hazardous substances when exposed to heat or ultraviolet light. The degradation process yields small, brominated compounds with the potential to cause toxic effects on organisms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 9, 2019

Ultra-sensitive sensor with gold nanoparticle array

Scientists from the University of Bath and Northwestern University have developed a new ultra-sensitive sensor using a gold nanoparticle array, detecting tiny amounts of material with great potential. The sensing mechanism is affected by molecules binding to the surface of nanoparticles, providing a means for detecting small molecules ...

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJan 9, 2019

Baby star's fiery tantrum could create the building blocks of planets

A massive stellar flare on a baby star has been spotted by University of Warwick astronomers, revealing how it could create the building blocks for future planets. The flare's x-rays are thought to affect the formation of chondrules, flash-melted calcium-aluminium-rich grains that eventually coalesce into orbiting planets.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 21, 2018

How ice particles promote the formation of radicals

Researchers discovered a mechanism for how ice particles and certain molecules release harmful substances into the atmosphere. The study found that organic molecules attach to ice particle defects, leading to UV radiation-induced radicals that damage the ozone layer.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 7, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Wireless, battery-free sensors monitor skin exposure to solar radiation

Researchers have developed wireless, battery-free sensors that monitor skin exposure to solar radiation in real-time, providing a flexible method to track UV light. The devices overcome existing drawbacks such as limited battery life, allowing for broader use in outdoor activities and optimizing light-based treatments for skin conditions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 5, 2018

Write with heat, cool and then repeat with rewritable paper

Researchers create long-lasting rewritable paper by layering blue dye and black toner, which remain legible for more than six months. The material can be reset by cooling it down to 14 F, allowing for over 100 reuse cycles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 5, 2018
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.

Atomic jet -- the first lens for extreme-ultraviolet light developed

Scientists from the Max Born Institute have created the first refractive lens that focuses extreme ultraviolet beams, utilizing a jet of atoms instead of traditional glass. This innovation enables novel approaches to image biological samples on extremely short timescales, with potential applications in microscopy and structural analysis.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature·DateNov 28, 2018

Blue light can reduce blood pressure

Exposure to whole-body blue light significantly reduces systolic blood pressure by almost 8 mmHg, similar to blood pressure lowering drugs. Blue light also improves other cardiovascular risk markers such as arterial stiffness and increased blood vessel relaxation.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 8, 2018

RNA microchips

Researchers at the University of Vienna and McGill University have created a new approach to synthesizing RNA, making it up to a million times more efficient than previous methods. The breakthrough uses photolithographic fabrication technology and a new protecting group to produce RNA chips with high yields.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2018