An ultrastrong exciton–polariton coupling in two-dimensional excitonic mithrene with a large refractive index and a large oscillator strength of its primary exciton is reported, enabling the formation of self-hybridized exciton–polaritons with Rabi splitting of >600 meV.

Quantum effects on biological reactions are investigated via magnetosensitive single-photon microspectroscopy. Using single-photon avalanche diode detectors, magnetosensitive radical pair photochemistry is detected to the single-photon level on 23 flavin molecules.

The incorporation of fluorine-doped tin oxide nanoplatelets on the substrate of perovskite solar cells contributes to uniform light harvesting across different incidence angles of sunlight. The best devices show a power conversion efficiency of 26.4% (certified 25.9%), 95% of which is maintained after 1,200 hours of operation.

An in situ-grown layer of SiO_xN_y contributes to passivating surface defects in inverted organic solar cells, enabling power conversion efficiency of up to 18.49% and an estimated device lifespan of over 16 years.

The use of a hydrogen-bonded eutectic molecule as a ligand stabilizes black phase perovskite, resulting in solar cells with a T₉₅ lifetime of 2,000 h and an efficiency of 25.8%.

A CMOS-compatible watt-class power amplifier based on large-mode waveguide technology is realized with an on-chip output power reaching ~1 W within a footprint of ~4 mm², enabling integrated photonics to tackle true systems level integration.

Wilson Sibbett, a highly respected member of the international optics and laser community, left us on the 15th October 2024.

Daniel Mittleman spoke with Nature Photonics about promising applications using terahertz waves, including spectroscopy, imaging, wireless communications, and quality control in industry.

Nature Photonics spoke with Hatice Altug, from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Thomas Krauss, from the University of York, and Malini Olivo from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) about optical biosensors and their prospects and challenges for clinical translation.

Photonics can play a pivotal role in bringing time crystals to the domain of optical ‘timetronics’ — an information and data technology that relies on the unique functionalities of this sophisticated yet esoteric state of matter.

The mitigation of climate change requires major transformations in the ways we generate energy and operate technologies that release carbon dioxide. Photonic concepts and novel light-driven technologies provide many potential solutions, transforming our current modes of energy use into more effective and sustainable ones.