Ultrafast science Research update Filamentous laser beams point to new type of phase transition Clustering threads of plasma could help control lightning and seed clouds Read article: Filamentous laser beams point to new type of phase transition
Surfaces and interfaces Research update New optical fibre shortens laser pulses the easy way Kagome structure and noble gas work together to create short, powerful infrared bursts Read article: New optical fibre shortens laser pulses the easy way
Ultrafast science Video A single light of science An introduction to the International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies (IYL 2015) Read article: A single light of science
Lasers News Laser pioneer Charles Townes dies aged 99 Physicist shared the 1964 Nobel prize for his work on the microwave laser Read article: Laser pioneer Charles Townes dies aged 99
Cosmology Blog The world of physics in 2015 Find out more about the key physics events of the coming year – and those we predict might happen Read article: The world of physics in 2015
Nanomaterials Research update Supersonic bullets test graphene’s strength Carbon sheet is much better at absorbing impacts than steel Read article: Supersonic bullets test graphene’s strength
Semiconductors and electronics News LED firm rejects Nobel laureate’s olive branch Shuji Nakamura tried to rebuild ties with Nichia Read article: LED firm rejects Nobel laureate’s olive branch
Policy and funding News Retrial granted for jailed Iranian physicist Supreme Court overturns initial verdict for Omid Kokabee Read article: Retrial granted for jailed Iranian physicist
Transport properties Research update New plasmonic nanolaser is cavity-free Proposed device could improve optical telecommunications Read article: New plasmonic nanolaser is cavity-free
Ultrafast science Research update Strontium’s nuclear ‘spin symmetry’ revealed Discovery will be crucial for building yet more precise atomic clocks Read article: Strontium’s nuclear ‘spin symmetry’ revealed
Optics & Photonics Briefing This issue explores lasers and detectors, solar power, medical imaging and high-resolution displays