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Following ultrafast magnetization dynamics in depth

Scientists at Max Born Institute create novel method to probe magnetic thin film systems, identifying heat injection from platinum layer as cause of magnetization changes. The approach allows femtosecond temporal and nanometer spatial resolution, paving way for studying ultrafast magnetism and device-relevant geometries.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022
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.

UCF researchers develop technology for AI that mimics the human eye

The device can instantly recognize what it sees, like automatic descriptions of pictures taken by a camera or phone, and outperforms the eye in the number of wavelengths it can see. It's uniqueness comes from its ability to integrate three different operations into one, making it many times faster than current technology.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

Researchers develop the world's first ultra-fast photonic computing processor using polarization

Scientists at the University of Oxford have created a new type of computing processor that uses light to process information, achieving speeds faster than traditional electronics. By leveraging multiple polarisation channels, the researchers increased computing density by several orders of magnitude, paving the way for more efficient p...

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

Organic water splitters get a boost

A KAUST-led team developed organic semiconductor-based photocatalysts to store solar energy as clean hydrogen fuel. These catalysts can absorb visible light and generate long-lived charges, improving efficiency for hydrogen evolution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 9, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A candlelight-like glow from a flexible organic LED

Scientists create a bendable organic LED with a mica backing that produces soft, warm light similar to candlelight, with minimal blue wavelength emissions. This device offers a potential solution for sleep-friendly lighting alternatives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateMay 24, 2022

Tiny infrared spectral filters for remote thermal sensing and imaging

New research develops a low-index BaF2 thin film-based microspectrometer technology for LWIR spectral sensing. The study demonstrates the use of flat and stress-free free-standing distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) for high-performance wavelength discrimination in the long-wave infrared region.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateMay 23, 2022
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.

Planets of binary stars as possible homes for alien life

Researchers found that planetary systems around binary stars form differently than those around single stars, potentially creating new targets for extraterrestrial life. The study also suggests that comets could play a key role in delivering organic molecules necessary for life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateMay 23, 2022

Fiber glow brings more go for underwater communications

Researchers from KAUST have designed an all-inorganic halide-perovskite polymer-fiber-photodetector that can detect light in the green region (around 510 nm), enabling fast underwater optical communications. The system offers a 3dB bandwidth of 13.1 MHz, allowing data transmission speeds of up to 152.5 Mbit/s.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOptics Express·DateMay 15, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Live monitoring of brain metabolism with fluorescence

A new sensor technology allows for real-time monitoring of lactate levels in the brain, providing insights into energy metabolism and potential applications in cancer detection. The sensors corrected for hemodynamic artifacts using MRI-informed corrections enable accurate cell-specific lactate level recordings.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMay 10, 2022

Pushing the boundaries of space exploration with X-ray polarimetry

The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission enables new measurements of cosmic X-ray sources, such as pulsars, black holes, and neutron stars. With its state-of-the-art telescopes and detectors, IXPE will provide high-quality polarization data of various sources, including supernova remnants, active galaxies, and blazars.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Astronomical Telescopes Instruments and Systems·DateApr 22, 2022

Sapphire fiber could enable cleaner energy and air-travel

Researchers have developed a sensor made of sapphire fibre that can withstand temperatures over 2000°C, enabling significant improvements in efficiency and emission reduction in aerospace and power generation. The technology has potential applications in space and fusion power industries.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022

A fast and accurate innovative imaging technique to monitor modern semiconductor devices

Researchers at Samsung have developed a novel approach to inspect critical dimensions of semiconductor devices, improving speed and resolution. The new 'line-scan hyperspectral imaging' (LHSI) technique offers faster measurements with high spatial resolution, outperforming existing methods.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateApr 21, 2022
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.

Almost ready for prime time: deep UV photodetectors head to real-world testing

Researchers are taking stock of advancements in ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) photodetectors with deep UV capabilities, highlighting their efficiency and potential for solar-blind applications. Further work is needed to optimize device performance, particularly in assembling materials over large area substrates.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 19, 2022

How accurate is smartwatch heart data? It depends on your skin tone

A study suggests that smartwatch heart rate measurement algorithms are less effective in people with darker skin tones due to increased melanin absorption. Researchers emphasize the need for diverse population inclusion and explore alternative light wavelengths for more accurate readings.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 23, 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

Novel X-ray lens facilitates glimpse into the nanoworld

A team of PSI scientists has developed an achromatic X-ray lens for the first time, allowing researchers to study nanostructures with high resolution. The innovative lens, which combines two optical principles, enables compact X-ray microscopes that can be operated on industry premises.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022
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.

To the bone: 3D mapping mineral patterns inside the shark vertebral centrum

Researchers used energy dispersive diffraction to create high-resolution 3D maps of bioapatite arrangements within shark centra, revealing key structures and their functions. The study provides insights into the structure-function relationship of the shark skeleton and could be applied to other organisms.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateFeb 2, 2022

Photodynamic therapy with chlorin e-6 can be effective auxiliary treatment for dental caries

The study demonstrated that photodynamic therapy (PDT) using chlorin e-6 can effectively reduce bacterial plaque biofilms containing cariogenic microorganisms, including Streptococcus mutans. The treatment eliminated S. mutans and decreased total microorganisms by up to 3.7 units, with approximately 99% efficacy of antimicrobial activity.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPharmaceutics·DateFeb 2, 2022

Sidewinding young stellar jets spied by Gemini South

Astronomers have captured detailed images of sinuous stellar jets emanating from young stars, suggesting that their sidewinding appearances are caused by gravitational attraction from companion stars. The observations were made using the Gemini South telescope's adaptive optics system.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·TypeObservational study·DateJan 21, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Pusan National University scientists develop simpler way to create common chemical detection platform

Researchers have created a new, simpler way to fabricate SERS nanostructures with superior stability and performance at low cost. By using a heat-resistant polymer called polyimide (PI), they can produce nanosurfaces with nanopillars that enhance signal intensity for efficient chemical detection. The new fabrication method has the pote...

SourcePusan National University·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022

UMass Lowell scientist pioneers new class of semiconductors

A new class of faster and more powerful semiconductors is being developed by UMass Lowell scientists to enhance wireless communication and digital imaging. The $1.7M NSF project aims to improve infrared optoelectronic devices, enabling better intracellular imaging, night vision, and quantum and 5G communication.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateDec 16, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Artificial material protects light states on smallest length scales

Scientists at Paderborn University have demonstrated the spatial confinement of a light wave to a point smaller than the wavelength in a topological photonic crystal. This finding enables novel unidirectional waveguides that transmit light without back reflection, even with arbitrarily large disorder.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2021

Doing photon upconversion a solid—Crystals that convert light to more useful wavelengths

Scientists discover a promising approach to creating solid materials for photon upconversion, which can transform wasted long-wavelength light into more useful shorter wavelength light. The new van der Waals crystal solution exhibits outstanding performance and efficiency, enabling the development of novel photonic technologies.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2021

DIY radiative cooler developed to serve as a research standard

Scientists from UCLA develop a do-it-yourself radiative cooler using household materials, achieving moderate to large temperature drops. The design's reproducibility and low cost make it an attractive standard for research settings.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Adult stem cells transform faster with two lasers

Scientists from the University of Johannesburg found that shining two lasers on adult stem cells accelerates their transformation into different types of cells. The consecutive irradiation increases proliferation and differentiation under laboratory conditions, paving the way for potential therapies to repair damaged tissues.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalBiochimie·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Infrared light therapy might aid dementia patients

A pilot study found improvements in memory, motor function, and processing skills in healthy individuals after receiving transcranial photobiomodulation therapy. The therapy, involving infrared light, has the potential to alleviate nerve cell damage and reduce symptoms of dementia.

SourceDurham University·JournalPhotobiomodulation Photomedicine and Laser Surgery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 18, 2021
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.

Smuggling light through opaque materials

Electrical engineers at Duke University have discovered a way to extend the use of chalcogenide glasses into the visible and ultraviolet parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. By nanostructuring these materials, they can create high-order harmonic frequencies that enable transmission of light at previously inaccessible wavelengths.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Sunlight exposure guidelines may need to be revised, researchers warn

Researchers from King's College London warn that previously published solar exposure guidelines for optimal vitamin D synthesis may not be accurate. A new study suggests a simple correction is needed to the wavelength dependency for vitamin D production, which could impact risk/benefit calculations for sunlight exposure.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2021

Unveiling galaxies at cosmic dawn that were hiding behind the dust

Researchers used ALMA to observe distant galaxies and discovered two new, dusty galaxies near original targets, challenging our understanding of early galaxy formation. The discovery suggests that a significant portion of early galaxies may be hidden from view due to cosmic dust.

SourceWaseda University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 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

Generating entangled photons with nonlinear metasurfaces

A new approach to generating quantum-entangled photon pairs uses nonlinear metasurfaces to enhance and tailor photon emissions. The researchers achieved a five-order-of-magnitude increase in the brightness of entangled photons, with a highly configurable platform that can control entanglement and direction.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021
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.

Switched on IR-active organic pigments

Researchers developed a modular organic molecular system with customizable properties, creating a potent dye that absorbs light in the near-infrared range. The pigments' electronic switchability makes them suitable for studying electron transfer in photosynthesis and as efficient electron-transporting materials.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

UCLA engineers bend light to enhance wavelength conversion

The UCLA-led team has devised a solution to enhance wavelength-conversion efficiency by exploring semiconductor surface states. Incoming light is bent using a nanoantenna array, allowing for easy and efficient conversion of wavelengths.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2021

Infrared held in a pincer

Scientists have created the first chromium complex that emits light in the longer wavelength NIR-II range, a significant breakthrough for biomedical imaging. This achievement is expected to lead to cheaper alternatives for luminescence-based applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 22, 2021

EHT pinpoints dark heart of the nearest radio galaxy

The Event Horizon Telescope has imaged the heart of the nearby radio galaxy Centaurus A, pinpointing the location of its central supermassive black hole and revealing a gigantic jet being born. The new image challenges theoretical models of jets, showing that only the outer edges emit radiation.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 19, 2021
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.

Ultra-strong squeezing of light demonstrated for ultrafast optical signal processing

Photonic researchers successfully demonstrated a temporal compression system that can squeeze light in time by 11 times, allowing more data to be transmitted in a given time duration. This technology also enables the spectral compression of light, which could facilitate higher spectral densities and faster optical communications networks.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·DateJul 5, 2021

One step towards a daily-use deep UV light source for sterilization and disinfection

Osaka University researchers develop a novel monolithic microcavity wavelength conversion device that converts infrared radiation into blue light, potentially leading to a safe and practical deep UV light source for sterilization and disinfection. The device achieves high reflectivity and efficient emission of second harmonic waves.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJun 14, 2021

A new approach will help save X-ray studies from failing results

Scientists developed a method to predict and eliminate X-ray glitches in single-crystal optics, increasing the efficiency of refractive optics. The approach is based on accurate simulation and prediction of glitches, allowing researchers to tune their work at modern X-ray sources.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalCrystals·DateJun 9, 2021

Non-linear optics meets X-rays

Scientists have developed a method to shape soft X-ray pulses with high precision, using self-phase modulation in the X-ray regime. This technique has the potential to unlock new protocols for femtosecond core electrons spectroscopies.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 13, 2021
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.

Study suggests that silicon could be a photonics game-changer

Researchers discovered silicon's strongest nonlinearity, allowing for extremely weak beams to be used in photonic applications. This breakthrough could lead to the production of silicon processors with built-in light beam control capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 27, 2021

With new optical device, engineers can fine tune the color of light

Researchers at Stanford University developed an optical device that allows engineers to change the frequencies of individual photons in a stream of light. This enables the creation of compact and flexible neural networks for artificial intelligence, transforming fields such as digital communications, AI, and quantum computing.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 23, 2021

Transport phenomena at the nanoscale

Researchers successfully employ hard X-ray transient grating spectroscopy to study phonon response and material properties at the nanoscale. The technique, which uses subnanometer wavelength pulses, reveals insights into bulk and nanostructured materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 2021
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.

Study finds plants would grow well in solar cell greenhouses

Researchers found no significant difference in plant growth or health when grown under different light filters, making see-through solar panels a feasible option for greenhouses. This technology could enable energy-neutral farming and reduce greenhouse emissions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 17, 2021

Simultaneous multicontrast OR-PAM from single laser source

Researchers developed a multiwavelength OR-PAM system based on a single laser source, enabling simultaneous multicontrast imaging of hemoglobin concentration, blood flow speed, blood oxygen saturation, and lymphatic concentration. This innovation shortens imaging time and improves accuracy for functional imaging in biological tissues.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 11, 2021

A better way to measure acceleration

The NIST instrument uses laser light to measure acceleration with higher precision and does not require periodic calibrations. It has the potential to improve inertial navigation in critical systems like military aircraft and satellites.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptica·DateMar 8, 2021
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.

An optical coating like no other

A team at the University of Rochester has created a novel optical coating that can simultaneously reflect and transmit light of the same wavelength, a breakthrough that could improve the efficiency of solar energy devices. The Fano Resonance Optical Coating (FROC) technology enables precise control over color and could lead to signific...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2021