Swarms of pico-satellites could work together as a single large antenna for direct-to-smartphone communications, as reported by researchers from Japan. Instead of relying on a single large satellite with a phased-array antenna, the team showed that pico-satellites orbiting Earth in formation could each carry individual phased-array elements and be synchronized wirelessly. The proof-of-principle experiment demonstrated reliable, high-quality data transmission, paving the way for cheaper, more reliable network coverage worldwide.

A new artificial intelligence framework helps turn long-running multispectral satellite records into hyperspectral ocean color data, opening the door to longer and more detailed studies of marine ecosystems.

Future lunar missions may rely on a fibre-optic cables to assess vital sub-surface structures. Researchers at ETH Zurich are investigating whether lightweight optical fibres – like those used for internet communication on Earth – could be deployed on the Moon to detect seismic activity and reveal its interior structures.

A Dartmouth study reports a technique for creating detailed landscape maps of what students know based on their performance on short multiple-choice quizzes. The researchers’ mathematical framework could be used to power a new generation of personalized AI tutors that can identify what individual students do and do not understand, then customize feedback to improve learning. The researchers released a public demo where users can construct an interactive map of their knowledge.

Researchers in China developed a novel visual system, the VSES2-4 systems enabled rapid identification of transgenic soybean plants under natural light. Using the VSES4 system, transgenic plants could be distinguished at various developmental stages without compromising genome editing efficiency. The VSES4 system significantly accelerates transgenic line screening and reduces labor-intensive procedures in soybean genome editing.

Engineered transfer heads could eventually be used to repair defective pixels in microLED screens or assemble complex and multi-material electronics.