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From Science Fiction to Reality: Simple Lens Swap Turns Ordinary Cameras Into Hyperspectral Devices

Scientists have created a compact spectral singlet lens that turns standard cameras into hyperspectral ones, reducing system size and complexity. This breakthrough could expand hyperspectral imaging into portable applications, with future improvements underway.

The information we gather shapes our understanding and perspectives of the world. For centuries, optics has sought to interpret the multidimensional data around us through the “toolbox” of light. In the 17th century, Sir Isaac Newton introduced the lens imaging formula and conducted his famous color spectrum experiment, laying foundational insights in the field.

Since then, lenses and spectrometers have been extensively studied as essential optical components for capturing information. Cascading these two components can allow us to acquire more information – both spatial and spectral data. However, such a configuration leads to tradeoffs among device footprint, spectral resolution, and imaging quality, impeding portability and miniaturization of hyperspectral cameras.

Are Nearby Planets Sending Radio Signals to Each Other?

Researchers have developed a new method using the Allen Telescope Array to search for interplanetary radio communication in the TRAPPIST-1 star system.

A new technique allows astronomers to home in on planets beyond our solar system that are in line with each other and with Earth to search for radio signals similar, for example, to ones used to communicate with the rovers on Mars. Penn State astronomers and scientists at the SETI Institute spent 28 hours scanning the TRAPPIST-1 star system for these signs of alien technology with the Allen Telescope Array (ATA). This project marks the longest single-target search for radio signals from TRAPPIST-1. Although the team didn’t find any evidence of extraterrestrial technology, their work introduced a new way to search for signals in the future.

A paper describing the research was accepted for publication in the Astronomical Journal and is available online as a preprint.

Robots chisel out the future of sculpture as some artists embrace change and others push back

Instead of the old-fashioned hammer and chisel, a 13-foot zinc alloy arm with a spinning, diamond-crusted finger is now used by some to cut marble. Robotor CEO Giacomo Massari says it’s ten times faster.


A fleet of marble-sculpting robots is carving out the future of the art world. It’s a move some artists see as cheating, but others are embracing the change.

6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off Cuba’s Southern Coast

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A strong 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck off Cuba’s coast, south of Santiago de Cuba around noon local time on Sunday.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake’s epicenter was about 24 miles south of Bartolomé Masó which is part of Cuba’s Granma Province.