Scientists discover potentially habitable planets
Three exoplanets, similar to Earth and Venus, orbit an ultracool dwarf star just 40 light years from Earth. The planets may have regions with temperatures suitable for liquid water and life.
Wavelengths
Articles tagged with Wavelengths
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NASA employees among finalists for prestigious Heyman Medal
Dennis Reuter and his team are selected as finalists for the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal for their contributions to the New Horizons mission to Pluto. The LEISA instrument provided groundbreaking data on Pluto's surface composition, expanding scientists' understanding of the outer solar system.
Team builds first quantum cascade laser on silicon
A team of researchers has successfully built the first quantum cascade laser on silicon, paving the way for applications in chemical bond spectroscopy, gas sensing, astronomy, and free-space communications. The breakthrough integrates lasers directly on silicon chips, overcoming challenges posed by silicon's indirect bandgap.
A laser for your eyes
Researchers created an efficient diode-pumped eye-safe laser using GdAl3 single crystals co-doped with Er and Yb. The laser emits safe wavelengths for human eyes and has advantages in telecoms due to low atmospheric losses.
New laser to shine light on remote sensing
A revolutionary new laser developed by the University of Adelaide can operate over a large range in the infrared light spectrum, allowing for sensitive detection of greenhouse gases. The laser's tunability and affordability make it a promising tool for scanning gases with high sensitivity.
Light helps develop programmable materials
Researchers at Lund University have developed a method to control the movement of active particles using light, which can be used to create programmable materials. This technology has potential applications in environmental science, such as locating oil spills, and medicine, including delivering pharmaceutical substances.
VLA shows earliest stages of planet formation
Astronomers have observed the inner portion of a protoplanetary disk surrounding HL Tau, with VLA images showing a distinct clump of dust containing roughly 3-8 times the mass of Earth. The region is thought to be where Earth-like planets would form.
UMass Amherst team offers new, simpler law of complex wrinkle patterns
Researchers at UMass Amherst and Oxford University describe a new law for predicting wrinkle wavelength on curved surfaces, enabling the use of wrinkles to sculpt surface topography. Experimental results support the validity of this local law, which incorporates mechanical and geometrical effects.
Quantum processes control accurately to several attoseconds
Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University successfully controlled ultrafast motion of electrons down to three attoseconds, breaking natural obstacles and observing quantum interference. The achievement opens a new horizon for studying ultrafast processes in physics.
Algorithm makes hyperspectral imaging faster
Researchers at NC State University have developed an algorithm that can quickly and accurately reconstruct hyperspectral images using less data. This breakthrough enables faster imaging times and reduced memory requirements, making it suitable for applications such as security, defense, environmental monitoring, and agriculture.
Switching light with a silver atom
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a working group that created a tiny, ultra-efficient optical switch using silver atoms. This breakthrough has significant implications for data transmission and storage, as it enables the creation of digital signals with unprecedented accuracy.
Scientists show a new way to absorb electromagnetic radiation
Researchers have developed a new way to fully absorb electromagnetic radiation using an anisotropic crystal, hexagonal boron nitride. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing radar visibility and improving applications in photovoltaics, sensing, nanochemistry, and photodynamic therapy.
A nanophotonic comeback for incandescent bulbs?
A new technology allows for the creation of incandescent bulbs that can achieve efficiencies as high as 40 percent, outperforming current CFLs and LEDs. The breakthrough involves a two-stage process where waste heat is captured and re-emitted as visible light, resulting in a threefold improvement over traditional designs.
Single-chip laser delivers powerful result
A Northwestern University team has developed a mid-infrared tunable laser integrated into an on-chip amplifier, demonstrating an order-of-magnitude increase in output power. The new technology allows for adjustable wavelength output, modulators, and amplifiers in a single package, enabling more efficient detection of hazardous chemicals.
NASA to launch FORTIS to study extra-galactic dust
The FORTIS sounding rocket will study the properties of galaxy NGC 1365, also known as the Great Barred Spiral Galaxy. Scientists aim to quantify how much material is flowing in and out of the galaxy by analyzing light emitted and absorbed by different types of hydrogen.
Using atoms to turn optical nanofiber guided light on and off
The OIST team developed an on-off switch with ultrathin optical fibers, using the quantum properties of rubidium atoms in the presence of different wavelengths of light. This proof-of-concept system could be used as a building block in a quantum network, enabling efficient data transfer and security.
Measuring nanoscale features with fractions of light
Using a novel microscope that combines standard through-the-lens viewing with scatterfield imaging, NIST team accurately measures patterned features on a silicon wafer as small as 16 nanometers wide. The technique reveals variations in feature dimensions amounting to differences of a few atoms.
New research exploits extraordinary properties of graphene
Researchers have developed a new hybrid structure that interacts strongly with electromagnetic radiation, enabling control over optical switches. The graphene-based material has the effect of focusing radiation into a smaller area than its wavelength.
The long and short of plasma turbulence
Researchers have used a supercomputer to simulate plasma turbulence, finding that long and short wavelength turbulence coexist and interact strongly, increasing heat losses tenfold above standard models. This discovery may inform fusion reactor design and bring us closer to practical fusion energy.
New technology colors in the infrared rainbow
Researchers at Duke University have developed a technology that brings true color to infrared imaging systems, capturing specific wavelengths from the visible to the infrared spectrum. This allows advanced thermal imaging systems to be produced faster and cheaper, with higher sensitivity.
Second harmonic generation in a high-Q crystal microresonator fabricated by femtosecond laser
Researchers demonstrated the fabrication of high-Q LN microresonators using femtosecond laser micromachining, achieving efficient second harmonic generation (SHG) in the visible wavelength range. The normalized conversion efficiency of SHG was measured to be 1.35×10-5 /mW.
The new wave in wireless communication
Researchers at UCSB aim to develop large-scale millimeter wave wireless data networks that can operate at gigabit speeds. The new approach focuses on the millimeter wave band, which offers additional real estate on the electromagnetic spectrum and better efficiency due to its smaller coverage area.
Graphene flakes as an ultra-fast stopwatch
Researchers developed a graphene broadband detector that reacts rapidly to incident light and works at room temperature. The device can synchronize laser pulses with high accuracy, enabling precise measurements at room temperature.
Mode control for square microresonator lasers suitable for integration
Square optical microresonators support whispering-gallery modes, suitable for unidirectional microlasers. Microsquare lasers offer better modulation behaviors and higher output power than microdisk lasers. Mode selection is achieved by adjusting the output waveguide width, enabling continuous tuning of lasing wavelength.
Laser-wielding physicists seize control of atoms' behavior
Researchers have successfully tuned lasers to manipulate atoms' interactions in a Bose-Einstein condensate, allowing for exotic states of matter. This breakthrough enables the exploration of unusual quantum phenomena and the engineering of novel quantum devices.
New on-chip optical sensing technique used to detect multiple flu strains
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz and Brigham Young University have developed a novel method for multiplex fluorescence detection on a small chip, enabling the rapid detection and identification of different flu virus subtypes. The technique uses wavelength division multiplexing to create distinctive signals in an optical waveguide.
Attosecond physics: Laser-based molecular fingerprinting
A team of researchers has developed a unique source of coherent radiation for identifying and quantifying molecules in complex mixtures. The new laser can detect minimal amounts of disease markers present in exhaled breath, with the potential to diagnose potentially lethal diseases early.
Acoustic imaging with outline detection
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new type of acoustic imaging device that extracts contour information during measurement, creating detailed outline images of objects. The method uses evanescent waves and is useful for quickly recording relevant information about objects.
Self-sweeping laser could dramatically shrink 3-D mapping systems
A new approach uses light to move mirrors, reducing the need for external controls in LIDAR and OCT devices. This could lead to compact and lightweight components suitable for smartphones or small UAVs.
Stanford engineers develop a wireless, implantable device to stimulate nerves in mice
Researchers created a miniature device combining optogenetics with wireless power delivery, enabling experiments involving free-moving mice. The breakthrough expands the scope of optogenetics research and offers new possibilities for studying social behavior and complex movements.
Scientists measure slow death of the Universe
Researchers measured energy generated within space more precisely than ever before, discovering the Universe is slowly dying. The Galaxy and Mass Assembly project used seven powerful telescopes to observe 200,000 galaxies at 21 wavelengths.
Camera for the nano-cosmos
Scientists at HZDR and TU Dresden create compact camera that enables precise filming of dynamic processes at the nanometer scale. The instrument combines advantages of two methods, allowing high spatial and temporal resolution.
Portable ultra-broadband lasers could be key to next-generation sensors
A new portable ultra-broadband laser can sense chemicals for various applications, including security and medicine. The compact device emits light across a broad spectrum of frequencies, enabling real-time detection of chemicals.
Short wavelength plasmons observed in nanotubes
Berkeley Lab researchers have generated and detected plasmons with one of the strongest confinement factors ever, confining photon energy to a spatial dimension smaller than its wavelength. This breakthrough enables novel plasmonic devices with extraordinary sub-wavelength confinement.
Scientists study atmosphere of Venus through transit images
Scientists measured the absorption of different wavelengths of light in Venus' atmosphere, revealing clues about its composition and temperature. This research will help improve studies of exoplanets and future missions to Venus.
New heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode for high-frequency efficiency
The researchers developed a novel ultra-compact heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode using silicon photonics and quantum-dot technology, achieving a wide-range tuning operation of around 1250 nm wavelength with an ultra-small device footprint. The obtained frequency tuning-range of 8.8 THz is a world record for QD and silicon p...
Novel X-ray lens sharpens view into the nano world
A novel X-ray lens designed by DESY scientists has been successfully tested, producing sharper and brighter images of the nano world. The lens employs a unique concept to redirect X-rays over a wide range of angles, enabling high convergence power and resolving smaller details.
Magic wavelengths
Researchers at JQI have discovered special wavelengths, known as 'magic wavelengths', that can trap and excite Rydberg atoms without disturbing them. This breakthrough enables the creation of qubits and interaction of atoms in a useful regime.
Northwestern scientists develop first liquid nanolaser
Researchers at Northwestern University have created the world's first liquid nanoscale laser that can change colors in real time. The technology has significant advantages over traditional lasers, including simplicity, affordability and room-temperature operation.
Search for advanced civilizations beyond Earth finds nothing obvious in 100,000 galaxies
A team of scientists using NASA's WISE observatory has found no evidence of advanced extraterrestrial life in 100,000 galaxies. The study searched for signs of highly advanced civilizations in mid-infrared wavelengths, a radiation detectable by the satellite.
Astronomers discover likely precursors of galaxy clusters we see today
Researchers used ESA's Herschel and Planck space observatories to identify objects in the distant Universe that could be precursors of today's galaxy clusters. These early galaxies were found to be forming stars at an extremely high rate, with some converting gas and dust into stars at a rate 1,500 times faster than our own Milky Way.
NASA satellites catch 'growth spurt' from newborn protostar
Astronomers have discovered an outburst from a young protostar called HOPS 383, revealing a sudden accumulation of gas and dust. The eruption is thought to be caused by instabilities in the disk around the protostar, leading to an extreme hot spot that heats up the surrounding material.
NASA-funded mission studies the Sun in soft X-rays
Scientists have made significant discoveries about the Sun's behavior in soft X-rays, shedding light on heating mechanisms and coronal composition. The study found that nanoflares, tiny explosions on the Sun, could be responsible for increased soft X-ray emissions, which also affects space weather events near Earth.
Engineers create chameleon-like artificial 'skin' that shifts color on demand
Researchers created a flexible, thin material that can change color by flexing it, offering possibilities for new display technologies and sensors. The material uses 'structural color' to reflect specific wavelengths of light, reflecting up to 83% of incoming light.
Mid-IR frequency combs enable high resolution spectroscopy for sensitive gas sensing
Researchers at Ghent University have developed mid-infrared frequency combs, which enable high-resolution spectroscopy for detecting gases. The combs' broad spectrum allows for fast and accurate analysis of molecular fingerprints, making them suitable for environmental monitoring and medical diagnostics.
The chameleon reorganizes its nanocrystals to change colors
Researchers at Université de Genève discover that chameleons change colors through the active tuning of a lattice of nanocrystals in iridophores. This unique system allows for rapid shifts between efficient camouflage and spectacular display, while also providing passive thermal protection.
NIST gets new angle on X-ray measurements
Scientists at NIST have developed a new approach to measure X-ray angles with greater precision, reducing errors by three times. This improvement will enable better understanding of newly designed materials and their properties.
Perfect colors, captured with one ultra-thin lens
Researchers create an ultra-thin, completely flat optical component made of glass substrate and silicon antennas that compensates for wavelength differences. This allows for consistent effects like deflecting beams of different colors by the same angle or focusing those colors on a single spot.
Researchers synthesize material for efficient plasmonic devices in mid-infrared range
Researchers at North Carolina State University have synthesized a new material that efficiently converts mid-IR light into oscillating electrons, enabling applications in high-speed computing, solar energy, and biomedical devices.
ORCA prototype ready for the open ocean
ORCA will study microscopic phytoplankton and their impact on the carbon cycle, measuring chlorophyll concentrations and distinguishing between types of phytoplankton. The instrument's hyperspectral capability offers a range of bands to refine ocean observations.
The laser pulse that gets shorter all by itself
Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have developed a way to compress intense laser pulses by a factor of 20 using a cleverly designed hollow fibre. This tabletop technology makes creating short infrared pulses much simpler and cheaper than previously used setups.
Detection thresholds drop with low noise quantum cascade laser driver
The QCL LAB family of instruments features low noise drive electronics, allowing for stable center wavelength and narrow linewidth. Models are available with output currents up to 2000 mA, making them suitable for various applications such as remote detection of explosive materials and medical diagnosis.
Photonic crystal nanolaser biosensor simplifies DNA detection
A team of researchers created a photonic crystal nanolaser biosensor that can detect DNA and biomolecules based on wavelength shift and laser emission intensity changes. This method is simpler and potentially less expensive than existing techniques, making it a promising tool for disease diagnosis.
NASA-funded FOXSI to observe X-rays from Sun
The FOXSI mission will observe high-energy X-rays from the Sun, helping scientists understand solar flares and the sun's atmosphere. By detecting these faint events, researchers aim to confirm the existence of nanoflares, which are thought to occur constantly but are difficult to detect.
University of Minnesota engineers make sound loud enough to bend light on a computer chip
University of Minnesota engineers have developed a novel device platform that generates and confines both sound wave and light wave on a computer chip. This technology has the potential to improve wireless communications systems using optical fibers and could be used for computation using quantum physics.
Creating bright X-ray pulses in the laser lab
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new laser system to create high-flux X-ray pulses, which will allow for more accurate measurements in various scientific fields. The new technology uses mid-infrared light and can produce up to 25 times higher X-ray flux than previous experiments.
Caltech rocket experiment finds surprising cosmic light
Researchers detected a diffuse cosmic glow originating from stripped stars flung out into space after galaxies collided and merged. The findings suggest previously undetected stars permeate dark spaces between galaxies, forming an interconnected sea of stars.
Berkeley Lab scientists ID new driver behind Arctic warming
Researchers discovered that open oceans are less efficient at emitting far-infrared energy than sea ice, leading to warmer oceans and melting sea ice. This phenomenon contributes significantly to the polar climate's warming trend, with simulations predicting a 2-degree Celsius increase in the Arctic climate after just 25 years.
Inside the Milky Way
Researchers analyzed images from the Russian spacecraft RadioAstron and found small spots in the overall image, which they call substructure. This phenomenon can be used to infer the actual size of the underlying source, including the black hole's emission region.
NASA's SDO watches giant filament on the sun
Scientists use NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory to study a gigantic filament on the sun, which can last for days or weeks. The filament is 1 million miles wide and appears in different temperatures and wavelengths of extreme UV light.