NIST scientists have developed a new method for measuring temperature extremely accurately by using giant “Rydberg” atoms. This atomic thermometer provides accurate measurements “out of the box,” without needing initial factory adjustments, because it relies on the basic principles of quantum physics. By using Rydberg atoms’ sensitivity to environmental changes, this technique could simplify temperature sensing in extreme environments, from space to high-precision industries.

How can the latest technology, such as solar cells, be improved? An international research team led by the University of Göttingen is helping to find answers to questions like this with a new technique. For the first time, the formation of tiny, difficult-to-detect particles – known as dark excitons – can be tracked precisely in time and space. These invisible carriers of energy will play a key role in future solar cells, LEDs and detectors. The results were published in Nature Photonics.

A new strategy for measuring magnetic fields could one day lead to a host of new quantum sensors—from tools that might map out the activity of the human brain to devices that could help airplane pilots navigate the globe.

A new technique to trap clusters of platinum atoms in nanoscale islands could lead to more efficient catalysts for the chemical industry.