☢️ US scientists detect hidden nuclear threats with light, SpaceX to launch 1st human mission to Earth's poles, Researchers deploy robotic fish to collect eDNA from oceans

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) have developed a remarkable quantum sensing probe.

Led by physicist Moussa N’Gom, the team aims to detect and characterize special nuclear materials remotely without physical contact.

The research is part of a larger initiative funded by the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration working to advance technical capabilities in nuclear security and nonproliferation missions. For more on this development, check out today’s Must-Read.

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MUST-READ

☢️ US scientists use ‘light with a twist’ to detect hidden nuclear threats

RPI’s approach leverages the power of light and quantum mechanics. The team is developing a spectroscopy- and optics-based method for nuclear trial verification, dubbed “Light with a Twist.”

At the heart of this technology is a bright single-photon source guided through free space. This setup allows precise timing and control, leading to the detection of minute signals from special nuclear materials.

The team’s probe could revolutionize how nuclear materials are detected and monitored, thus making the world safer.

🚀 SpaceX to make history, launch 1st-ever human mission to Earth’s poles by year-end

SpaceX has announced Fram2, the first crewed spaceflight to explore Earth from a polar orbit.

This venture will carry a crew of four— first-time space travelers from diverse backgrounds— aboard a Dragon spacecraft, launched by a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The crew will embark on a 3-5 day journey orbiting 425-450 km above Earth, using Dragon’s transparent cupola to observe the polar regions. Additionally, the crew will study aurora-like phenomena and research human health in space.

🐟 Eve: Robotic fish deployed to collect environmental DNA from Zurich waters

Researchers at ETH Zurich have revealed Eve, a robotic fish designed to collect environmental data from marine ecosystems without disturbing the natural habitat.

Eve features a silicone tail activated by silent internal pumps, mimicking real fish movements. This design allows the robot to blend in with its surroundings.

Additionally, Eve is equipped with advanced technology, including cameras, sonar, and an algorithm for safe navigation. The robotic fish will collect environmental DNA samples from water, which can help identify species present in the area without direct observation.

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