Cosmology Research update Sir Fred Hoyle 1915 – 2001 The astronomer who coined the phrase 'big bang' dies at 86 Read article: Sir Fred Hoyle 1915 – 2001
Semiconductors and electronics Research update Silicon LED strides ahead Solar cell technology yields a super-efficient silicon device for optoelectronics
Particles and interactions Research update First hints of novel nuclei Physicists create a heavy isotope of hydrogen and a 'doubly strange' nucleus
Optical physics Research update New nano-technique hits the bull’s-eye A model bull just micrometres long shows the potential of a new micro-fabrication technique Read article: New nano-technique hits the bull’s-eye
Planetary science Research update Mars-sized object probably created the Moon A planetary projectile could explain the features of the modern Earth and Moon Read article: Mars-sized object probably created the Moon
Structure and dynamics Research update Ion strings make brilliant beams Preventing collisions is the key to super-stable ion beams
Constants and units Research update When is a constant not a constant? A fluctuating fine structure constant could cast doubt on many physical models
Structure and dynamics Research update Hälg prize rewards neutron scattering in Europe Institute Laue Langevin physicist bags the biannual prize
Planetary science Research update Jupiter helps to explain planets around multiple stars A modified theory of planet formation accounts for extra-solar planets
Telescopes and space missions Research update Did interplanetary dust seed life on Earth? Dust grains are more likely to have initiated life than comet impacts