Physics and Astronomy News Archive: March 2012

Image: Detection of a cosmic effect

Detection of a cosmic effect

Source: Princeton   Posted: 3/23/12

The first observation of a cosmic effect theorized 40 years ago could provide astronomers with a more precise tool for understanding the forces behind the universe's formation and growth, including the enigmatic phenomena of dark energy and dark matter.
Image: Nuclear Clock Accurate Over Billions of Years

Nuclear Clock Accurate Over Billions of Years

Source: GATech   Posted: 3/23/12

A clock accurate to within a tenth of a second over 14 billion years – the age of the universe – is the goal of research being reported this week by scientists from three different institutions.
Image: Negative Refraction

Negative Refraction

Source: Oregon State   Posted: 3/2/12

Researchers have discovered a way to make a low-cost material that might accomplish negative refraction of light and other radiation.
Image: Squeezing Uncertainty

Squeezing Uncertainty

Source: GATech   Posted: 3/2/12

Squeezing what hasn’t been squeezed before: Scientists score another victory over uncertainty in quantum physics measurements.
Image: Cassini Detects Hint of Fresh Air at Dione

Cassini Detects Hint of Fresh Air at Dione

Source: NASA/JPL   Posted: 3/2/12

NASA's Cassini spacecraft has 'sniffed' molecular oxygen ions around Saturn's icy moon Dione for the first time, confirming the presence of a very tenuous atmosphere.