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High-flux table-top source for femtosecond hard X-ray pulses

Researchers at the Max Born Institute developed a novel laser-driven X-ray source generating femtosecond copper K° pulses with unprecedented flux of 10^12 photons per second. This breakthrough enables investigating ultrafast structure changes in condensed matter by time-resolved X-ray scattering.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalOptics Letters·DateJan 7, 2021

Viewing upper gastrointestinal cancers in a new light

Researchers developed a novel endoscopic technique, Linked Color Imaging (LCI), to improve detection of cancer in the upper digestive tract. LCI technology enhances contrast of mucosal changes by combining specific wavelengths of light, detecting neoplastic changes 1.67 times more frequently than conventional White Light Imaging.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 5, 2021

Inverted fluorescence

Researchers have discovered a new class of fluorescent dyes that can convert visible light into ultraviolet light, overcoming one of the biggest challenges to harnessing sunlight for energy. This breakthrough could enable more efficient solar-powered water splitting and other high-energy reactions.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 18, 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.

Researchers control multiple wavelengths of light from a single source

KAIST researchers have synthesized nanoparticles that emit multiple wavelengths of light from a single particle, allowing for the control of these particles' properties and creation of environmentally responsible displays and lighting. The discovery also sheds new light on the mechanisms governing the optical properties of carbon dots.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateDec 11, 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.

OPD optical sensors that reproduce any color

Researchers at POSTECH developed thin-film organic photodiodes with accurate and simple junction engineering, controlling spectral response of wavelengths. This innovation enables the production of color-filter-free optical sensors, a significant advancement in replacing silicon photodiodes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateOct 21, 2020

An innovative method to tune lasers toward infrared wavelengths

A team of researchers at INRS has discovered a method to tune the spectrum of a laser to the infrared using a simple and much less expensive system: a hollow-core fiber filled with nitrogen. This approach delivers optical pulses shorter than those of the input laser and with high spatial quality.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalOptica·DateOct 14, 2020

Turning excess noise into signal

Scientists have developed a simple method to comprehensively assess spectrometer performance within seconds using only incoherent excess noise. This approach enables high-quality visible light OCT imaging with improved spectral resolution uniformity, revealing new insights into the mouse photoreceptor layer.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateOct 14, 2020

New method uses noise to make spectrometers more accurate

Researchers at UC Davis have developed a new method to characterize and calibrate spectrometers using excess noise in light signals. This approach allows for faster and more accurate calibration, with results comparable to traditional methods in just a few seconds.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateOct 13, 2020
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.

Self-imaging of a molecule by its own electrons

Researchers at the Max Born Institute have developed a method to record high-resolution movies of molecular dynamics using electrons ejected from a molecule by an intense laser field. This technique allows for the observation of ultrafast nuclear rearrangement with both high temporal and spatial resolution.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2020

New ultrafast yellow laser poised to benefit biomedical applications

Researchers created a compact and ultrafast high-power yellow laser with excellent beam quality, filling the need for practical yellow light source emitting ultrafast pulses. The laser's wavelength range is highly absorbed by hemoglobin in blood, making it useful for medical treatments, dermatology, and eye surgery.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 9, 2020

Forging molecular bonds with green light

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Calcium-rich supernova examined with x-rays for first time

A Northwestern University-led team examined a calcium-rich supernova dubbed SN 2019ehk with X-ray imaging, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the star during its final month of life and ultimate explosion. The study revealed that the event is a compact star shedding an outer layer of gas before exploding, producing bright X-rays.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·DateAug 5, 2020

Shrinking (ultra)violet

The NIST researchers developed a portable laser-based system to test the effectiveness of different wavelengths of UV light against various microorganisms. The study found that narrower wavebands were more effective in inactivating germs, with some unexpected results.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJul 22, 2020

Highest peak power and excellent stability

Researchers have developed a new system delivering few-ps pulses at 2 μm wavelength with peak power of 17 GW, exceeding previous records. The system features excellent stability and brilliant beam quality, making it suitable for applications in nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, and materials processing.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalOptics Letters·DateJul 6, 2020
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.

Strainoptronics: A new way to control photons

A new way to engineer optoelectronic devices has been discovered by researchers at George Washington University. Using a method called strainoptronics, the team created a novel photodetector that can operate with high efficiency at telecom wavelengths, advancing future communications and computer systems.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 22, 2020

Scientists grow optical chips in a petri dish

A team of scientists from ITMO University developed a method to create optical chips in a Petri dish using gallium phosphide as a material for the waveguides. The new chip elements are three times smaller than those working in the IR spectral range, enabling compact and affordable production of lasers and waveguides.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 16, 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.

Astronomers find elusive target hiding behind dust

Astronomers have discovered a region around a protostar containing complex organic molecules, dubbed a 'hot corino,' which is crucial for the formation of life. The finding resolves a long-standing puzzle about why some binary systems show evidence of hot corinos but not others.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 8, 2020

Stretchable variable color sheet that changes color with expansion and contraction

Researchers have created a variable color sheet using elastomer nanosheets that change color in response to strain, achieving reversible wavelength control of transmitted light. The developed sheets utilize surface plasmon to produce extraordinary optical transmission and can be used for flexible displays and sensors.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJun 2, 2020

Smart windows that self-illuminate on rainy days

Researchers at POSTECH developed a variable color filter using metal-hydrogel-metal resonator structure and combined it with solar cells to create a self-powering humidity sensor. The sensor detects changes in surroundings by converting light's energy into electricity, making it suitable for use in IoT technology.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMay 28, 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.

Battling disease with ultraviolet light

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.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 26, 2020

Efficient generation of relativistic near-single-cycle mid-infrared pulses in plasmas

Scientists have developed a new scheme to generate near-single-cycle mid-infrared pulses in plasmas, achieving conversion efficiencies of up to 30%. The method uses two terawatt-level short-pulse lasers incident into an underdense plasma channel, producing a tunable mid-infrared pulse with millijoules of energy.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 25, 2020

All-fiber optical wavelength converter

Scientists have developed an all-fiber optical wavelength converter using few-layer gallium selenide (GaSe) nanoflakes, enhancing efficiency by over four orders of magnitude compared to traditional microfibers. The converter can operate in a wide wavelength range, covering C, L telecom bands and the O band, with minimal power consumption.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 5, 2020

Environment: Satellite data used to detect marine plastic

A new approach uses European Space Agency Sentinel-2 satellites to detect patches of floating plastics in marine environments, distinguishing them from other materials with 86% accuracy. The method successfully classified different types of plastics and natural materials across four coastal areas.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 23, 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.

X-ray vision through the water window

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a high-repetition-rate laser source producing coherent soft x-rays spanning the entire 'water window', enabling new applications in chemistry and biology. The system, capable of 100 kHz repetition rates, demonstrates a significant improvement over existing sources.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalOptica·DateApr 8, 2020

Physicist from Hannover develops new photon source for tap-proof communication

A team of researchers has developed a new method for generating quantum-entangled photons in the previously inaccessible spectral range of 2.1 micrometers. This breakthrough can enhance the security of satellite-based communications by making end-to-end encryption possible on sunny and cloudy days.

SourceCluster of Excellence PhoenixD / Leibniz University Hannover·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 27, 2020

Compact beam steering studies to revolutionize autonomous navigation, AR, neuroscience

Researchers have developed a low-power beam steering platform that enables scalable optical systems for ultra-small LiDAR on autonomous vehicles, AR/VR displays, trapped-ion quantum computers, and optogenetics. The technology reduces power consumption while maintaining operation speed and broadband low loss.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalOptics Letters·DateMar 19, 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.

A hidden electronic transition 'S0 → Tn' in heavy-atom-containing molecules

Scientists at Chiba University have discovered a previously overlooked electronic transition 'S0 → Tn' in heavy-atom-containing molecules exposed to visible light. The study reveals that this mechanism promotes radical reactions in photoreactions with visible light, which was not previously considered a main role.

SourceChiba University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 11, 2020

Show me the methane

A team of researchers from UC Santa Barbara has developed a system using hyperspectral imaging and machine learning to detect methane leaks, achieving an 87% success rate. This method can differentiate between methane and other hydrocarbons, pinpointing the location of emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateMar 9, 2020

Exploring the deep tissues using photoacoustic imaging

A team of researchers has created a novel photoacoustic imaging method that can penetrate up to 3.4 cm into deep tissues using a nickel-based nanoparticle contrast agent. This advancement enables the visualization of deep organs without causing harm or using ionizing radiation, paving the way for improved clinical diagnosis and practices.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalTheranostics·DateMar 6, 2020
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.

Tailoring spontaneous infrared emission of HgTe quantum dots with laser-printed plasmonic arrays

Scientists have developed a novel plasmonic platform to tailor the spontaneous near-to-mid IR emission of HgTe quantum dots, achieving a 5-fold enhancement of PL quantum yield and reducing non-radiative decay. The study demonstrates the potential for precise tuning of IR-emitting QDs' emission, improving device performance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 18, 2020

Nanotechnology: Putting a nanomachine to work

Researchers at LMU München successfully couple a light-activated molecular motor to a receiver unit, demonstrating the motor's ability to accelerate rotation and perform useful work. The study provides unprecedented insights into the operation of an integrated molecular machine.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 30, 2020

Record-breaking terahertz laser beam

Scientists at TU Wien have created a record-breaking terahertz laser beam that produces extremely efficient and high-intensity terahertz radiation. The technology generates a broad spectrum of terahertz radiation, enabling the creation of short pulses with extremely high radiation intensity.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 20, 2020

Compact broadband acoustic absorber with coherently coupled weak resonances

Researchers from Tongji University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University developed a compact broadband acoustic absorber using imperfect components with low absorption peaks. By modulating the coherent coupling effect, they achieved quasi-perfect absorption across a broad frequency range (870 - 3224 Hz) with an average coefficient o...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJan 16, 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.

Spectroscopy: A fine sense for molecules

A new laser-based system has been developed to detect and measure the levels of all biomolecules, including proteins, sugars, fats, and their derivatives. This technique offers unparalleled sensitivity and can be used for all known classes of biomolecules, enabling the detection of precancerous and malignant cells in body fluids.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateJan 1, 2020

On-chip light source produces versatile range of wavelengths

Researchers have designed a silicon-based chip-integrated light source that can transform infrared wavelengths into visible wavelengths, enabling highly miniaturized photonic instrumentation. The new optical parametric oscillator (OPO) light source simultaneously generates near-infrared wavelengths for telecommunication applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateDec 19, 2019

NASA's GISMO instrument maps inner Milky Way, sees cosmic 'candy cane'

The Goddard-IRAM Superconducting 2-Millimeter Observer (GISMO) instrument has mapped the inner Milky Way, revealing a feature resembling a cosmic 'candy cane' with two prominent radio filaments. The image showcases the galaxy's central zone, highlighting areas of star formation and high-speed electron spirals.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 18, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Earthquakes can be predicted five days ahead

Researchers discovered a connection between changes in internal gravity wave parameters five days before an earthquake, enabling the development of short-term forecast methods. The study's results show that IGWs can be used to identify seismically active regions and make predictions about upcoming seismic events.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalDoklady Earth Sciences·DateOct 23, 2019

UCF researchers work to create infrared detectors for viper-like night vision

UCF researchers have created an infrared detector that can enhance night vision capabilities by detecting different wavelengths of infrared light. The technology has implications for improving what can be seen in space, chemical and biological disaster areas, and on the battlefield. The detector operates faster than existing cameras an...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2019

Porous polymer coatings dynamically control light and heat

Researchers have developed porous polymer coatings that can reversibly switch their optical transmittance in solar and thermal wavelengths, enabling dynamic control of light and heat in buildings. The coatings can regulate indoor temperatures and light levels, making them suitable for heating, cooling, and lighting applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateOct 21, 2019
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.

A cool alternative to air conditioning

Researchers developed a low-cost, non-electric cooling technology using a polymer film that can cool buildings in metropolitan areas during the day. The tech achieves this by exploiting spectral overlap between atmospheric window and thermal radiation emitted by buildings.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 8, 2019

Tunable optical chip paves way for new quantum devices

Scientists demonstrate a new type of quantum device using a silicon carbide photonic integrated chip that can be tunable, paving the way for next-generation quantum information processing devices. The approach overcomes some of the fragility drawbacks of previously reported SiC platforms.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 2, 2019

A new member in AIE family

Researchers have designed a new member of the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) family using 1,1,2,4-tetraphenyl-1,3-butadiene derivatives. These TPB derivatives exhibit strong fluorescence in aggregates and variable emission wavelengths due to conformational sensitivity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateSep 24, 2019
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.

The magic wavelength of cadmium

Researchers have found a magic wavelength in cadmium, enabling the creation of atomic clocks with unprecedented accuracy. This breakthrough could revolutionize time measurement and test new physics theories.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 14, 2019

It's not aurora, it's STEVE

Scientists have confirmed that STEVE, a celestial phenomenon, has distinct differences from aurora. Its pinkish mauve color and 'picket fence' emissions set it apart. Researchers are now focused on understanding what causes STEVE and its potential impact on our infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 4, 2019

Secret messages hidden in light-sensitive polymers

Scientists at CNRS have created polymers that can change information stored on a molecular level using specific wavelengths of light. This technology allows for the storage and decoding of secret messages, with potential applications in designing new materials.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2019
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.