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Molecules on a surface reach the ultimate quantum limit

Researchers at Max Planck Institute develop technique to interrogate molecules on surfaces with spectroscopic precision, reaching the ultimate quantum limit. This breakthrough enables study of molecule-surface interactions and molecular quantum technologies.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2026

Magnon momentum microscopy: A new window into nanoscale spin-wave physics

Researchers developed a new method to observe nanoscale spin waves, directly detecting short-wavelength magnons using resonant soft X-rays. The technique, called magnon momentum microscopy (MMM), reveals strong nonlinear interactions and four-magnon scattering processes in magnetic materials.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2026

It takes two combs to tango

Dual-comb spectroscopy enables precise, rapid, and broadband measurements using two optical frequency combs with slightly different repetition frequencies. This technique has been implemented across the electromagnetic spectrum, from terahertz to visible range, with ongoing efforts towards ultraviolet range.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Reviews Methods Primers·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2026

When order gives way to chaos: the turbulent birth of magnetic nanovortices

Scientists have directly imaged the effect of short current pulses on skyrmions, finding that they break up into disordered patterns before re-forming in a predictable manner. This discovery opens up new possibilities for computing concepts like probabilistic computing.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2026
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.

Quantum entanglement on attosecond timescales

The study measures ultrafast electron dynamics in hydrogen molecules, observing oscillations in hole localization that depend on the delay between attosecond pulses. Entanglement occurs at the expense of electronic coherence in the remaining ion.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2026

NSF CAREER Award supports research to create opportunity from nitrate pollution

A University of Virginia researcher is developing an alternative method to remove nitrate from wastewater by converting it into valuable chemical products. The project uses electrocatalysis and modulation excitation spectroscopy to optimize the conversion process, aiming to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 20, 2026

Standard model of particle physics verified to one trillionth accuracy

Researchers have confirmed the Standard Model of particle physics with unprecedented accuracy, solving the proton radius puzzle and verifying predictions up to the 13th decimal place. The new results set a new benchmark in measuring the energy levels of hydrogen atoms.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026

UH Professor warns of dangers of red-light laser myopia therapy for children

A University of Houston optometry researcher warns of the dangers of red-light laser myopia therapy for children, citing vision damage reports and the need for rigorous safety validation. The professor's quality improvement study found that two popular devices exceeded national standards for safety classifications.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 2, 2026

Light switches made of ultra-thin semiconductor layers

A nanostructure composed of silver and an atomically thin semiconductor layer can be turned into an ultrafast switching mirror device, displaying properties of both light and matter. This discovery could lead to dramatically increased information transmission rates in optical data processing.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Observing nanoscale dynamics with soft X-rays

Researchers at the Max Born Institute developed a laboratory-scale soft-X-ray instrument to study ultrafast processes of emergent textures in magnetic materials. They observed nanoscale magnetic maze domains and discovered complex reorganization patterns on picosecond to nanosecond timescales.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2025

Characterization of few-cycle pulses tunable across the vacuum ultraviolet

Scientists at Max Born Institute develop technique to generate µJ-level tunable few-fs UV pulses in VUV range. They successfully characterized few-fs pulses tuned between 160 and 190 nm using electron FROG, revealing pulse duration of 2-3 fs.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2025
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.

Watching bandgaps in motion - attosecond interferometry of solids

Using extreme ultraviolet high-harmonic interferometry, researchers tracked changes in the electronic bandgap of silica glass and magnesium oxide under strong laser excitation. The study found a shrinking bandgap in silica and a widening bandgap in magnesium oxide.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2025

Maximum precision achieved for a fundamental physical parameter

Researchers use innovative technique to measure vibration frequency of H₂⁺ ion, improving accuracy by three orders of magnitude. The measurement enables precise calculation of fundamental natural constants, including proton-to-electron mass ratio.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature·DateSep 9, 2025

Breakthrough in magnetic field acceleration of ultrafast demagnetization

Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in controlling ultrafast spin dynamics by accelerating demagnetization speed with external magnetic fields. This discovery opens up new avenues for designing multifunctional spintronic devices with field-programmable operations.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2025

Ten thousand molecules in time – Generation and control of collective vibrations in a liquid

Scientists generate collective molecular vibrations in a liquid by placing an electron ultrafast. These vibrations govern the electric behavior of the liquid and can be tuned to adapt its properties. The study reveals new insights into polar liquids' dynamics.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A compact, mid-infrared pulse generator

Physicists at Harvard SEAS have created a compact, on-chip mid-infrared pulse generator that can emit short bursts of light without external components. This device has the potential to speed up gas sensor development and create new medical imaging tools.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2025

PNNL scientist elected AAAS fellow

Zheming Wang, a PNNL scientist, has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science as an AAAS Fellow. His research focuses on the chemistry underlying radioactive and advanced energy materials, with notable contributions to studying f block elements.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 28, 2025

Breakthrough in deep ultraviolet laser technology

Researchers developed a compact, solid-state laser system that generates 193-nm coherent light, marking the first 193-nm vortex beam produced from a solid-state laser. This innovation enhances semiconductor lithography efficiency and opens new avenues for advanced manufacturing techniques.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateMar 21, 2025

Watching electron motion in solids

A German-Italian team has discovered a way to simplify the experimental implementation of two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, allowing for real-time study of electron motion in solids. By adding an optical component to Cerullo's interferometer, researchers were able to control laser pulses more precisely, enabling the investigatio...

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2025
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.

Study reveals how agave plants survive extreme droughts

Researchers used terahertz spectroscopy to study agave plants' ability to retain water in dry environments. They found that agaves store water in a specialized leaf structure and fructans act like molecular sponges to retain moisture. This discovery could lead to better farming practices and drought-resistant crops

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateMar 5, 2025

Quantum state of photoelectrons measured for the first time

For the first time, scientists have measured the quantum state of electrons ejected from atoms after absorbing high-energy light pulses. This technique provides a new way to study the interaction between light and matter, with potential applications in various fields of research.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 12, 2025

A highly sensitive laser gas sensor based on a four-prong quartz tuning fork

Researchers developed a highly sensitive laser gas sensor using a four-prong quartz tuning fork, outperforming traditional sensors in terms of sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio. The new design improves detection performance for trace gases such as acetylene, enabling applications in industrial production, medical diagnosis, and fir...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateFeb 7, 2025

Miniaturized all-fiber photoacoustic spectrometer for intravascular gas detection

Researchers developed a miniaturized all-fiber photoacoustic spectrometer for intravascular gas detection, achieving detection limits of 9 ppb and response times as quick as 18 milliseconds. The system detects trace gases at the ppb level and analyzes nanoliter-sized samples with millisecond response times.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateDec 18, 2024
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.

Researchers take broadband high-resolution frequency combs into the UV

Researchers have developed a new ultrafast laser platform that generates ultra-broadband ultraviolet (UV) frequency combs with an unprecedented one million comb lines. This achievement provides exceptional spectral resolution and could enhance high-resolution atomic and molecular spectroscopy. The new approach also produces extremely a...

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 31, 2024
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.

Optica Quantum October 2024 Issue Press Tip Sheet

The new issue of Optica Quantum features 10 research articles on quantum information science and technology. New methods for compensating scattering and aberrations in entangled photon systems have been proposed, and ultrafast nonlinear wave mixing spectroscopy schemes employing coherent light pulses and vacuum modes are being explored.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica Quantum·DateOct 30, 2024
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.

Taking the “vibrational fingerprints” of molecules got 100 times faster

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have developed a new system that increases the measurement rate of Raman spectroscopy, a technique used to identify molecules. This improvement enables faster identification of molecules and cells, with applications in biomedical diagnostics and material analytics.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalUltrafast Science·DateOct 23, 2024

Russian physicists determine indices enabling prediction of laser behavior

Researchers at HSE University identified universal critical indices for calculating fibre laser characteristics and operating regimes. The study enables predictions of laser parameters and facilitates optimisation for various applications.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalOptics & Laser Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2024
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.

New 'chiral vortex' of light reveals molecular mirror images

A new structure of light has been discovered that can accurately measure chirality in molecules, a property of asymmetry important in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. This 'chiral vortex' provides an accurate and robust form of measurement, allowing for the detection of chiral biomarkers.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 2, 2024

Nanoparticle array implantation for sensitive and reusable detection

A new SERS microfluidic system was developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers, achieving a detection limit lower than 10 ppt of harmful substances. The system uses femtosecond laser-induced nanoparticle implantation into flexible substrate for sensitive and reusable microfluidics detection.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 18, 2024

Tracking the color of light

Researchers developed a new spectroscopy method using tunable lasers, enabling precise tracking of the laser's color at every point in time. The technique offers higher power and spectral stability compared to existing methods, making it suitable for various applications including LIDAR and spectroscopy.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 12, 2024

Speeding up spectroscopic analysis

Scientists have developed a method to accelerate spectroscopic analysis, enabling real-time measurements. The technique utilizes compressed sensing and strategically randomized measurement points to reconstruct signals with fewer data points, overcoming the challenge of temporal overlap between pulses.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2024

Portable swept-source Raman spectrometer for chemical and biomedical applications

Researchers developed a compact swept-source Raman spectroscopy system for identifying both chemical and biological materials. The portable system addresses limitations of bulky dispersive Raman spectrometers, providing accurate results comparable to conventional systems.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2024
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.

Ultrafast plasmonics for all-optical switching and pulsed lasers

This article discusses ultrafast plasmonic materials for all-optical switching and pulsed lasers, highlighting their potential in photonics applications. Researchers have explored various ultrafast plasmonic systems, including metasurfaces made of noble metals and phase-change hybrid materials.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·DateMar 25, 2024

Breakthrough in ultraviolet spectroscopy

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics have successfully developed a new technique for deciphering the properties of light and matter, enabling precise spectroscopy under low-light conditions. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for novel applications in photon-level diagnostics, precision spectroscopy, and biom...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2024

Optical frequency combs make ultraviolet spectroscopy more sensitive and more precise

Researchers at Max Born Institute have successfully implemented high-resolution linear-absorption dual-comb spectroscopy in the ultraviolet spectral range. This breakthrough enables experiments under low-light conditions, paving the way for novel applications in precision spectroscopy and biomedical sensing.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024

Nanoscale CL thermometry with lanthanide-doped heavy-metal oxide in TEM

Researchers at UNIST have developed a method to measure nanometer-sized samples within a transmission electron microscope, utilizing nano-thermometers based on cathodoluminescence spectroscopy. The technique offers improved accuracy and spatial resolution compared to conventional methods.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 7, 2024

‘Ruler for light’ could enable detailed measurement in personal devices

A new type of frequency comb, called a microcomb, is developed by Stanford researchers that can be used to measure light with unprecedented precision. The device is innovatively small, ultra-energy efficient, and exceptionally accurate, making it suitable for widespread adoption in everyday electronics.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Positronium laser cooling

Researchers successfully cooled positronium atoms to record-low temperatures of 170 K, significantly reducing their transverse velocity component. This achievement has far-reaching implications for precision spectroscopy and the study of quantum electrodynamics.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2024

A new chapter for all-attosecond spectroscopy

A team of researchers from the Max Born Institute has demonstrated a new approach to all-attosecond pump-probe spectroscopy using a compact intense attosecond source. This enables the investigation of extremely fast electron dynamics in the attosecond regime, which is not accessible by current attosecond techniques.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2024

How electron spectroscopy measures exciton “holes”

Scientists use a special microscope to break up the bond between electrons and holes in semiconductors, revealing that hole interactions determine charge transfer processes. The findings have implications for future computer and photovoltaic technologies.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

Shining a light on the hidden properties of quantum materials

Researchers at UC San Diego used terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to observe anomalous terahertz light amplification in Ta2NiSe5, uncovering its exciton condensate properties. This technique may allow for the discovery of new light-induced phenomena and their potential applications in entangled light sources.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024
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.

Ultrafast excitations in correlated systems

Researchers have developed a new approach to monitor ultrafast charge motion in strongly correlated solids, demonstrating phase transitions within femtoseconds. The technique offers sub-cycle temporal resolution and opens up new avenues for investigating ultrafast phenomena in correlated materials.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Water as a nonlinear medium for ultrabroadband white laser

Researchers use water as a nonlinear medium to create a supercontinuum white laser covering an impressive spectral range from UV to far infrared. The resulting ultrabroadband source has potential in ultrafast spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and scientific research.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJan 16, 2024

First observation of how water molecules move near a metal electrode

Researchers observe changes in water molecule movement near a metal electrode depending on the magnitude and polarity of the applied voltage. The study provides crucial insights into electrochemical reactions and paves the way for designing more efficient battery technologies.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Atomic dance gives rise to a magnet

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to transform a rare-earth crystal into a magnet by using chirality in phonons. Chirality, or the twisting of atoms' motion, breaks time-reversal symmetry and aligns electron spins, creating a magnetic effect.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023
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.

A clean-energy future for legacy coal?

Lehigh University researchers have developed a technique using machine learning and advanced spectroscopy to characterize waste feedstocks for gasification-produced hydrogen. This process has the potential to eliminate hazards associated with stored coal waste and reclaim valuable resources, while also emitting fewer pollutants than tr...

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 16, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Organic lasers have a bright future

Scientists at the University of St Andrews have developed an electrically driven organic semiconductor laser, overcoming a decades-long challenge. This breakthrough has significant implications for various industries, including communication, medicine, and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateSep 27, 2023

How fast does the charge migrate in molecules?

Scientists have successfully measured the speed of molecular charge migration in a carbon-chain molecule, revealing a movement of several angstroms per femtosecond. The study used a two-color high harmonic spectroscopy scheme with machine learning reconstruction to achieve a temporal resolution of 50 as.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 25, 2023