ScienceDaily: Top Technology News


IT security: Computer attacks with laser light

Posted: 21 Dec 2021 07:27 AM PST

Computer systems that are physically isolated from the outside world (air-gapped) can still be attacked. This is demonstrated by IT security experts. They show that data can be transmitted to light-emitting diodes of regular office devices using a directed laser. With this, attackers can secretly communicate with air-gapped computer systems over distances of several meters. In addition to conventional information and communication technology security, critical IT systems need to be protected optically as well.

Comets’ heads can be green, but never their tails. After 90 years, we finally know why

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 04:06 PM PST

A study has solved a 90-year-old mystery by proving the mechanism by which dicarbon -- the chemical that makes some comets' heads green -- is broken up by sunlight. This explains why the vibrant green color never reaches the comet's tail.

Could acid-neutralizing life-forms make habitable pockets in Venus’ clouds?

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 04:06 PM PST

A new study supports the longstanding idea that if life exists, it might make a home in Venus' clouds. The study's authors identified a chemical pathway by which life could neutralize Venus' acidic environment, creating a self-sustaining, habitable pocket in the clouds.

Speeding the development of fusion energy

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 04:06 PM PST

Profile of path-setting method to simulate the crazy-quilt movement of free electrons during experimental efforts to harness on Earth the fusion power that drives the sun and stars. The method cracks a complex equation that can enable improved control of the random and fast-moving moving electrons in the fuel for fusion energy.

Engineers produce the world’s longest flexible fiber battery

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 10:13 AM PST

Researchers have developed a rechargeable lithium-ion battery in the form of ultra-long fiber that could be woven into fabrics. The battery could enable a wide variety of wearable electronic devices, and might even be used to make 3D-printed batteries in virtually any shape.

Are black holes and dark matter the same?

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 09:08 AM PST

Astrophysicists suggest that primordial black holes account for all dark matter in the universe.

Consciousness in humans, animals and artificial intelligence

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 09:07 AM PST

A new theory of consciousness provides experimental access to the study of this phenomenon. Not just in humans.

Solar power: 'Wonder material' phosphorene nanoribbons live up to hype in first demonstration

Posted: 20 Dec 2021 09:07 AM PST

Researchers have incorporated phosphorene nanoribbons into new types of solar cells, dramatically improving their efficiency.

Sugar-coated COVID-19 test strip takes advantage of coronavirus' sweet tooth

Posted: 15 Dec 2021 10:27 AM PST

A sugar-coated COVID-19 test strip is effective at detecting all known coronaviruses, including variants, according to a new study.