Read article: ‘Cosmic train wreck’ stumps dark-matter physicists Gravity Research update ‘Cosmic train wreck’ stumps dark-matter physicists Localized “core” of dark matter is unusual in a galaxy cluster merger
Read article: Helices swirl in space-dust simulations Telescopes and space missions Research update Helices swirl in space-dust simulations Plasmas put a new twist on life
Read article: Opaque lens focuses light Ultrafast science Research update Opaque lens focuses light Physicists turn scattering of light into a beneficial effect
Read article: Nanotubes guide phonons with ease Nanomaterials Research update Nanotubes guide phonons with ease Heat could be used to transmit data
Read article: Interferometry images living cells in 3D Ultrafast science Research update Interferometry images living cells in 3D Biological samples can be seen in their native state
Surfaces and interfaces Research update Physicists minimize ‘sticky friction’ in tiny machines Discovery could help to increase reliability of small mechanical systems
Read article: X-ray holography breaks the femtosecond barrier Ultrafast science Research update X-ray holography breaks the femtosecond barrier New technique could allow atomic processes to be studied in real time
Read article: Dirac medal honours charm-quark physicists Particles and interactions Research update Dirac medal honours charm-quark physicists Jean Iliopoulos and Luciano Maiani each win $5,000
Read article: Phoenix blasts off to Mars Telescopes and space missions Research update Phoenix blasts off to Mars NASA mission will examine ice on the red planet
Read article: Laser flips magnetic bit without any help Surfaces and interfaces Research update Laser flips magnetic bit without any help External field not needed to write data
Optics & Photonics Briefing This issue explores lasers and detectors, solar power, medical imaging and high-resolution displays