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AI should be better understood and managed – new research warns

A Lancaster University academic argues that AI and algorithms contribute to polarization, radicalism, and political violence, posing a threat to national security. The paper examines how AI has been securitized throughout its history, highlighting the need for better understanding and management of its risks.

SourceLancaster University·JournalTechnology in Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 2, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How to shelter from a nuclear explosion

Researchers used computer modeling to simulate a nuclear explosion and found that high airspeeds remain a considerable hazard inside buildings. The tight spaces can increase airspeed, causing severe injuries or fatalities.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 17, 2023

With redesigned ‘brains,’ W88 nuclear warhead reaches milestone

Sandia National Laboratories completed the first production unit of a weapon assembly responsible for key operations of the W88 nuclear warhead. The new arming, fuzing and firing assembly ensures the system works as intended when authorized, with rigorous testing conducted to validate its design.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateAug 16, 2021
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 fate of the planet

Experts warn of potential global catastrophes such as engineered pandemics and nuclear annihilation, while also identifying areas for improvement. Scientists like Martin Rees argue that promoting wise technology deployment can minimize risks and ensure a sustainable future.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateApr 16, 2021

Adranos secures $2.1 million contract to extend firing range

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Adranos a $2.1 million contract to further develop its high-performance solid rocket fuel ALITEC for long-range missile systems. This funding will support the expansion of ALITEC's utilization in prototype and operational systems, enhancing the military's range, performance, and lethality.

SourcePurdue University·DateNov 10, 2020

Missile strike false alarm most stressful for less anxious Hawaiians, study finds

A study by the American Psychological Association found that highly anxious individuals in Hawaii calmed down rapidly after a false missile alert, while those with lower anxiety levels took longer to stabilize. The researchers believe this may be due to the threat of imminent death putting day-to-day stressors into perspective.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJul 25, 2019

What do dragonflies teach us about missile defense?

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories are exploring the use of dragonfly-inspired computing to develop faster and lighter missile defense systems. By mimicking the brain's ability to process visual information, they aim to improve intercept techniques for maneuvering targets such as hypersonic weapons.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJul 24, 2019

Don't panic: Lessons learned from Hawaii false alarm

People in Hawaii who received a false ballistic missile threat alert sought information to validate their risk, rather than immediate shelter. Social media played a key role in spreading accurate information and helped increase trust in future warnings.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateFeb 27, 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.

For nuclear weapons reduction, a way to verify without revealing

Researchers at MIT have developed a physics-based system to verify the destruction of nuclear warheads, using cryptographic keys in physical form. The new method uses neutron detection and resonance processes to identify authentic warheads, while concealing their designs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2018

Replicating peregrine falcon attack strategies could help down rogue drones

Peregrine falcons use proportional navigation guidance similar to guided missiles, which could be applied to small drones. This method relies on line-of-sight information and doesn't require target speed or distance data. The research may also provide insights into pursuit behaviors of other predatory species.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2017
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.

Special focus on formation control of unmanned systems

The special focus on formation control of unmanned systems presents recent significant achievements in theoretical design and applications. Key findings include the use of consensus-based approaches for simultaneous attack problems and hybrid particle swarm optimization for multi-UAV formation reconfiguration.

SourceScience China Press·DateJul 21, 2017

New artificial intelligence beats tactical experts in combat simulation

A new artificial intelligence system called ALPHA has been developed by Psibernetix, Inc., which consistently outperforms human experts in simulated air combat. ALPHA's ability to process vast amounts of sensor data and make tactical decisions in milliseconds makes it a formidable opponent, even when its aircraft are handicapped.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Defense Management·DateJun 27, 2016

Australian cricket team uses guided missile technology to improve bowling

Researchers developed an algorithm using submarine and guided missile technology to measure intensity of effort in cricketers. The 'torpedo technology' wearables provide a stable measure of bowling load across repeated spells, helping coaches identify fatigue and optimize preparation.

SourceAustralian Catholic University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMay 25, 2016
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.

Targeted missiles against aggressive cancer cells

Researchers at Lund University have developed a method to target and destroy aggressive cancer cells using 'missiles' that can deliver lethal cell toxins. The study identified specific proteins on the surface of stressed cancer cells, which can be used as targets for delivering drugs into the cells, leaving healthy tissue unharmed.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2016

What happens underground when a missile or meteor hits

Researchers at Duke University simulate high-speed impacts in artificial soil and sand, finding that materials get stronger when struck harder. This challenges previous models and may lead to better control of earth-penetrating missiles.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 10, 2015

Anti-tank missile detector joins the fight against malaria

Researchers at Monash University have developed a novel test using Fourier Transform Infrared (FITR) spectroscopy to detect malaria parasites in blood. The technique uses an anti-tank Javelin missile detector to identify infected red blood cells, providing highly detailed information on a sample area in minutes.

SourceMonash University·JournalAnalysis·DateJul 16, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers develop world's highest quantum efficiency UV photodetectors

The development of UV photodetectors has been driven by numerous applications in the defense, commercial, and scientific arenas. The researchers have brought this AlxGa1-xN-based device closer to reality by developing a compact photodetector with the world's highest quantum efficiency.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 9, 2013

Is war really disappearing? A new analysis suggests not

A new study by Bear Braumoeller at Ohio State University suggests that while conflict may be less common, the ability of countries to wage war has decreased over time. The analysis found no clear trend indicating a decrease in nations' willingness to go to war.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 29, 2013

Grains gang up to bear brunt of missile and meteorite impacts

Researchers have discovered a jerky, non-smooth energy transfer from a meteorite or missile to sand and dirt grains during impact. The study shows that the sound wave and grains behave differently than previously assumed, with pulses moving along networks of grains, or force chains.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 11, 2012
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.

New weapons detail reveals true depth of Cuban Missile Crisis

Recent analysis in the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists reveals that the Cuban Missile Crisis was even more perilous than history has acknowledged. Senior experts have calculated the nature of nuclear weapons capabilities on both sides, finding that the situation was more serious and dangerous than previously thought. The study highli...

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateOct 12, 2012

China's nuclear dilemma

China's unique deployment of modern conventional ballistic missiles has a decisive effect on its war plan, creating critical uncertainties. The country's military considers conventional missiles as a fundamental source of political and military strength, but this also generates risks of escalation.

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateSep 14, 2012

Hi-C to investigate activity in solar atmosphere

Hi-C will capture the highest-resolution images of the sun's corona, providing unprecedented views of dynamic activity in the solar atmosphere. The mission aims to understand coronal heating and structuring, placing significant new constraints on theories.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2012
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.

UA Space Systems engineer, Moon Express Eye $30 million Google Lunar X Prize

The University of Arizona space systems engineer Roberto Furfaro and his colleagues have designed an autonomous guidance system that will fly the privately-funded Moon Express lander to the lunar surface. The $30 million X Prize is won by landing a spacecraft on the moon, deploying a robot, and sending back an image and data to Earth.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateSep 7, 2011

US nuclear safety claim is a 'dangerous fantasy'

Research published in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists warns that US missile defense systems are not reliable and would not be effective in combat conditions. The authors propose a new drone-based system as an alternative, which could reliably intercept long-range ballistic missiles before they reach their targets.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateNov 1, 2010
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.

Louis A. Cassel to receive AIAA Missile Systems Award

Cassel is honored for his sustained technical contributions to missile systems, including hypersonic flight regimes and navigation systems. He developed innovative solutions such as jet interaction in hypersonic flight, aerodynamic control configurations, and optical sensors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateOct 8, 2010

Micromachines for a safer world

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have developed improved microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices that can measure acceleration and impact with increased sensitivity. These advancements have the potential to transform industries such as sports, transportation, and defense.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateAug 10, 2010

Health check for Hellfire missiles: Auto-doc onboard

The US Army has deployed Hellfire II missiles equipped with a health-monitoring device to Iraq and Afghanistan, providing troops with an added measure of assurance that the missiles will perform without failure. The Captive Carry Health Monitoring system automatically monitors environmental conditions that can affect missile reliability.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMay 20, 2010
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.

William T. Carpenter to receive AIAA missile systems management award

William T. Carpenter will receive the AIAA Missile Systems Management Award for his innovative leadership in establishing an environment for creativity in missile system technology. He has advanced several missile and defense systems through his expertise in aerodynamics, guidance, and control systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateDec 15, 2009

System monitors health of new composite military missiles

Purdue University engineers have developed a structural health monitoring system to detect flaws in new composite military missiles. The system uses triaxial accelerometers to pinpoint impact locations and severity, improving durability and performance.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 21, 2007

Scholar explores the question of who speaks for science

Rebecca Slayton argues that while scientists can inform public debate, their role is limited due to the complexity of computing and testing. Computer professionals played a significant role in opposing missile defense proposals in the 1960s and 1980s, but their warnings were initially dismissed as pessimism.

SourceStanford University·DateFeb 19, 2007
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

APL provides a unique view of successful intercept test

A team from Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) developed a multi-purpose sensor payload to collect video and infrared imagery of the target's boost, post-boost phases, reentry vehicle separation event, and SM-3 intercept. This provided scientists with the closest view of the intercept, enabling them to better und...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateNov 18, 2005

Guarding giants with tiny protectors

Researchers developed nanorobot fabrication to build extremely small sensors, improving detection capabilities for aircraft carriers and mini-UAVs. The new technology is also being considered for breast cancer detection, enabling non-contact examinations.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateOct 21, 2005

Technology holds promise for infrared camera

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed uncooled infrared photon detectors using type-II superlattices, enabling high-speed operation and handheld portability. The new technology has potential in medical applications, such as detecting inflammation or cancerous tissue.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateAug 11, 2005

Major missile defense study published

A new study published by the American Physical Society finds that boosting-phase defense systems have significant limitations, making them impractical against many potential threats. The report highlights issues with timing and range, limiting the effectiveness of boost-phase defenses.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalReviews of Modern Physics·DateOct 15, 2004

Student-built projectile could help soldiers detect bombs, chemicals

A team of University of Florida engineering students designed and built a crayon-sized sensor that can be fired from a paintball gun to detect explosives. The sensor was part of a government- and corporate-supported research program, and Lockheed Martin plans to refine and produce it for potential use in Iraq.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateApr 28, 2004
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.

Navy enlists microbes to cut costs

The Navy is using microorganisms to produce a key missile propellant, butanetriol, which could reduce production costs and environmental impact. The process involves modifying bacteria to convert sugars into the synthetic material, allowing for a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 29, 2003

Affordable weapons for the war on terror

The Office of Naval Research has developed a new missile called the Affordable Weapon, designed to carry a significant payload to a target several hundred miles away. Equipped with GPS navigation and line-of-sight data links, the Affordable Weapon can fly directly to its target or loiter until directed by a forward observer.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 10, 2002

Better warheads through plastics

The Office of Naval Research developed a new warhead that combines kinetic energy with chemical reactions to destroy targets. The warhead uses advanced composite materials and has shown improved structural damage and lethal radius in testing.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 2, 2002

Roger scramjet

A new kind of cruise missile engine, called a scramjet, has been tested to achieve Mach 6.5 speeds in simulated hypersonic conditions, outperforming traditional ramjets. The engine is being developed for use in the HyFly joint DARPA/ONR Flight Demo program, aiming to launch missiles at speeds up to Mach 6 and ranges of 600 nautical miles.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateJul 9, 2002
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.

Adversaries would find other attack methods, game theory shows

Researchers applied game theory to assess the feasibility of a proposed national missile defense (NMD) system. They found that protection may be a placebo if widely believed to be effective, prompting a cautious approach to deployment. The study suggests focusing on research and development and exploring alternative credible alternatives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDefense Analysis·DateAug 1, 2001

Sensor system sees missile launch

A new airborne infrared search and track system, called Risk Mitigation Sensor (RMS), recently passed a key test detecting the launch of a Black Brant missile. The RMS technology has applications in various military aircraft and systems, potentially entering Fleet use within five years.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateOct 5, 2000

Tracking low-flying missiles

Researchers develop Infrared Search and Track system to enhance low-altitude target detection. The new system will complement existing radars, providing improved detection in low-visibility conditions.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalApplied Optics·DateFeb 13, 2000
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.

The Mother Of All Firework Displays

A computer network manager proposes using obsolete ICBMs to create spectacular pyrotechnic displays, releasing thousands of artificial meteors into the atmosphere with different colours depending on their chemicals. The plan aims to reuse Cold War relics for entertainment rather than scrap them.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJun 3, 1998

MSX Successfully Observes Combined Experiments Program Flights

The MSX satellite successfully tracked two medium-range missiles, demonstrating its ability to perform key missile defense functions. The primary sensors collected several minutes of high-quality data, which is now undergoing preliminary analysis at the USASSDC.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMar 6, 1997

MSX Instruments Observe Small Magellanic Cloud

The MSX satellite has obtained two unique images of the Small Magellanic Cloud, a small companion galaxy to the Milky Way. The images reveal new details about the galaxy's structure and evolution, including hot stars, cool giant stars, and nebulae.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·DateOct 4, 1996
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.