It’s a wonderful world — and universe — out there.

Invention & Innovation

A series made possible with generous support from The Lemelson Foundation.

Computing
New device gets power from 5G signals grabbed from the air

By Kathryn HulickMay 17, 2021
Chemistry
Copper ‘foam’ could be used as filters for COVID-19 masks

By Sid PerkinsMay 11, 2021
Earth
Light levitation might help explore Earth’s ‘ignorosphere’

By Kathryn HulickApril 21, 2021
Climate
Surfing the winds would make future jet travel greener

By Harini BarathApril 16, 2021
Health & Medicine
Bandages made from crab shells speed healing

By Silke SchmidtApril 14, 2021
Physics
New ‘ionic wind’ can dry foods while preserving nutrients

By Sid PerkinsMarch 2, 2021
Materials Science
Super-absorbent swab could curb errors in COVID-19 testing

By Kathiann KowalskiFebruary 17, 2021
Chemistry
Here’s how to make flip-flops biodegradable

By Kathiann KowalskiDecember 8, 2020

Computing
New device tells smiles from frowns — even through a mask

By Kathryn HulickDecember 4, 2020
Materials Science
This artificial skin feels ‘ghosts’ — things you wish were there

By Stephen OrnesNovember 20, 2020
Chemistry
Ordinary paper turns into flexible human-powered keypad

By Kathryn HulickNovember 6, 2020
Genetics
Gene editing can alter body fat and may fight diabetes

By Silke SchmidtOctober 23, 2020