New research discusses conventional optical microscopes’ limitations and dielectric microspheres’ potential to overcome these limitations. It describes a novel 3D micro-device fabricated using femtosecond laser ablation and multi-photon lithography. This device integrates a modified coverslip and a microsphere to achieve enhanced resolution. Conventional optical microscopes are limited by diffraction, which restricts their ability to resolve [..]

Researchers have developed a new technique for measuring very small displacements using light called nano-optomechanical fiber-tip sensing. This technique has several advantages over traditional methods, making it ideal for various applications. One major advantage is its simplicity. Unlike traditional methods that require complex optical setups, nano-optomechanical fiber-tip sensing only uses a tiny mirror placed on [..]

Researchers have developed a new biodegradable neural interface that uses light to stimulate nerves. This technique, known as transdermal optoelectronic stimulation, has the potential to revolutionize neural prosthetics and other biomedical applications. The device is fabricated from silicon and molybdenum, chosen for their biocompatibility and optical properties.  A key feature of the design is its [..]

A new project at Aston University aims to revolutionize crop monitoring with a more affordable and efficient version of polarimetric LIDAR. Dr. Sergey Sergeyev, a photonics expert, has received a grant to develop this technology, addressing the limitations of current systems. LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses lasers to measure distance and gather information about [..]

Scientists have developed a method that rapidly predicts these materials‘ structure and chemical makeup, offering a faster and more precise alternative to traditional techniques. The key lies in combining machine learning with a spectroscopic technique called X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES). Researchers used this approach to analyze amorphous carbon nitrides, a material with a [..]

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have introduced a revolutionary optoelectronic neuron array capable of nonlinear optical processing of ambient natural light. This innovation addresses a critical need in computational imaging and sensing by enabling the nonlinear transmission of spatially incoherent light at significantly lower intensities than previously achievable with conventional optical materials. The team’s approach [..]

Digital pathology has revolutionized the field of medicine by enabling the analysis of whole slide images (WSIs) on computers. However, challenges remain, such as the need for large, high-quality datasets for training machine learning models. Researchers have introduced Prov-GigaPath, a new pathology foundation model, in a recent breakthrough. Prov-GigaPath was pre-trained on a massive dataset of real-world pathology slides from Providence, [..]

Researchers have developed a compact, single-shot polarization imaging system that can provide a complete polarization picture. This system, free of moving parts or bulk polarization optics, could unlock the vast potential of polarization imaging for various applications, including biomedical imaging, augmented and virtual reality systems, and smartphones. The research aims to empower applications in real-time [..]

Holography plays a crucial role in quantum optics. It has the potential to revolutionize areas like quantum communication and computation. However, errors can occur during information transmission. This is where quantum error correction comes in. Researchers have recently proposed a novel method for holographic error correction using stabilizer graph codes. Stabilizer graph codes are a [..]

Microfluidics, manipulating fluids at micrometer scales, offers exciting possibilities in fields like biology, chemistry, and medicine. However, traditional fabrication methods for microfluidic devices are expensive and require specialized cleanroom facilities. 3D printing presents a faster and more affordable alternative, but designing microfluidic devices for 3D printing remains a complex task. This is where Flui3d comes [..]

Scientists have produced a first for communications by 3D printing silica glass micro-optics on the tips of optic fibers. This technique could make smaller sensors and imaging systems, enhanced connectivity, and faster internet possible. The manufacturing of chemicals and pharmaceuticals may also benefit from the study of printing techniques. This approach solves long-standing issues with [..]

Researchers have developed a new MRI technique that could enable detailed studies of how brain cells develop and communicate. The technique involves engineering blood vessels to express a protein that makes them light-sensitive. When exposed to light, these engineered blood vessels dilate, and this dilation can be detected using MRI. This new technique offers several [..]

Researchers introduce Lithium Tantalate (LiTaO3) as a promising material for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for volume manufacturing. PICs are miniaturized circuits that integrate various optical functions onto a single chip. They are increasingly important for various applications, including optical communications, biosensing, and quantum technologies. Lithium Niobate (LiNbO3) has traditionally been the preferred material for PICs [..]

Researchers have developed a new type of optical barcode that could revolutionize high-resolution sensors. These barcodes use whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) resonators, which are tiny cavities that trap light and can be used to detect chemicals and other substances. However, traditional WGM resonators have limitations, such as a narrow dynamic range and limitations in resolution and accuracy. [..]

Scientists created a novel microscopy method called FLASH-PAINT, enabling researchers to see infinite distinct molecules inside a single cell. Imaging probes, also known as reagents, enable scientists to see minute features more clearly. Currently, imaging probes made of a single strand of DNA and a fluorescent dye are used in conjunction with an antibody to [..]

High refractive index polymers (HRIPs) are the unsung heroes of modern optoelectronic devices, from phone displays to light sensors. However, current HRIPs are expensive and unfriendly to the environment. Researchers have developed a game-changer: poly(thiourea)s (PTUs). These new HRIPs are transparent, easy to make, and remarkably – recyclable! The secret lies in PTUs’ unique structure. [..]

Long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) imaging is crucial for applications ranging from night vision to defense. However, conventional lenses for these systems are bulky, expensive (often made from germanium), and limit device design. Enter meta-optics: ultra-thin, lightweight alternatives based on nanostructured surfaces. While promising for size and weight reduction, meta-optics struggle with chromatic aberrations, where different wavelengths [..]

Imagine a lab where cutting-edge optics are used to crack the code of interstellar chemistry. This is exactly what’s happening at the Weichman Lab, where researchers use specialized high-resolution spectroscopy techniques to identify the building blocks of our universe. Funded by a new NSF grant, the lab is building a powerful tool to measure the [..]

Researchers describes an autonomous quantum heat engine built using a harmonic oscillator, a system that exhibits simple harmonic motion. Imagine a mass attached to a spring – that’s a harmonic oscillator. In the document, it is referred to as the working fluid, and it’s coupled to two heat reservoirs, one hot and one cold. The [..]

In optoelectronics, there is a constant push towards creating flexible devices. One key element in these devices is thin silver films. However, there is a trade-off between achieving high transparency and maintaining good electrical conductivity when reducing the thickness of these films. Researchers have developed a new process to create ultrathin silver films with high [..]