A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has achieved a new record of producing the strongest ultra-short laser pulses. The team produced 550 watts of power, i.e., energy of 100 µJ, surpassing the previous maximum by 50%. Researchers claim that the pulses can reach the power of 100 megawatts, which in theory is sufficient enough to power one lakh vacuum cleaners. To achieve the recording breaking power and pulse rates, researchers used two innovations. First, a special mirror arrangement sends the light inside the laser. Second, SESAM – a mirror arrangement whose reflectivity depends on the intensity of the light striking it.
New Laser Oscillator Sets Record by generating 550 Watts of Ultra-Short Pulses
Meet CORLEO: Kawasaki’s Robotic Horse of the Future
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.
Breakthrough in Quantum Phase Transitions Advances Quantum Technologies
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.
Ultra-Compact Optical Amplifier Revolutionizes Data Transmission
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.
Study uncovered earliest evidence transport technology used by ancient settlers
Researchers from Bournemouth University discovered early evidence of transport technology used by settlers in the USA over 20,000 years ago at White Sands National Park, New Mexico. They found drag marks from makeshift vehicles called “travois,” made from wooden poles, alongside ancient human footprints. The tracks included single lines, likely from dragging two poles joined at one end, and parallel lines, from poles crossed in the middle.