Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Bioinspired single-shot polarization photodetector

Inspired by the unique capacity of desert ants for polarization vision.

Chinese scientists have recently achieved significant advancements in the domain of polarization photodetectors (pol-PDs) by creating an integrated on-chip polarization photodetector. The research group drew inspiration from the remarkable ability of desert ants to see polarization. This unique vision enables desert ants to navigate back to their nests through desolate terrains without relying on visual markers, as their compound eyes can detect polarized sunlight. The researchers aimed to replicate this ability using their polarization photodetector.

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Silver bar

The strongest silver ever

Promising new class of super-strong and conducting materials.

Scientists have created the strongest silver ever, 42% stronger than the previous record. They also discovered a way to strengthen metals at the nanoscale while preserving electrical conductivity. This breakthrough could lead to a new class of industrial materials that combine high strength with efficient electricity flow

Kawasaki unveils hydrogen-powered robotic horse that you can ride

Meet CORLEO: Kawasaki’s Robotic Horse of the Future

Revolutionizing adventure with four legs, hydrogen power, and next-level terrain agility

Kawasaki introduces CORLEO, a trailblazing robotic horse built for off-road thrill-seekers. With four agile robotic legs, a hydrogen-powered engine, and adaptive terrain hooves, CORLEO delivers a smooth, responsive ride over mountains, rubble, and rocky trails. Riders can control it using intuitive weight shifts and handlebars. Enhanced by shock absorption, a high-tech dashboard, and illuminated night navigation. Designed to merge sustainability with performance, CORLEO is more than a machine—it’s a bold step into the future of mobility. Saddle up and explore the wild like never before.

Nonlinear superconducting resonator circuit for investigating dissipative phase transitions. 2025 EPFL/Guillaume Beaulieu - CC-BY-SA 4.0

Breakthrough in Quantum Phase Transitions Advances Quantum Technologies

EPFL Researchers Observe First- and Second-Order Dissipative Phase Transitions

EPFL researchers have experimentally observed both first- and second-order dissipative phase transitions (DPTs) in a superconducting Kerr resonator. By introducing a two-photon drive, they precisely controlled quantum state transitions, revealing phenomena like squeezing, hysteresis, and critical slowing down. Their findings confirm theoretical predictions and enhance understanding of quantum systems. This breakthrough could lead to improved quantum computing error correction and ultra-sensitive quantum sensors. The study highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, merging experimental physics, theory, and engineering to push the boundaries of quantum science.

photonic-chip-based traveling-wave parametric amplifier (TWPA)

Ultra-Compact Optical Amplifier Revolutionizes Data Transmission

Gallium Phosphide-Based TWPA Achieves Unprecedented Broadband Gain

Researchers from EPFL and IBM have developed a groundbreaking photonic-chip-based traveling-wave parametric amplifier (TWPA) that offers ultra-broadband optical signal amplification in a compact form. Using gallium phosphide-on-silicon dioxide technology, the amplifier delivers over 10 dB gain across 140 nm—three times the bandwidth of conventional EDFAs. Its strong optical nonlinearity boosts signals efficiently while minimizing noise. This innovation enhances optical networks, AI data centers, and precision sensing applications, marking a major step forward in high-speed data transmission and next-generation photonics.

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