University College London

A British-built satellite called Twinkle will look at the atmospheres of exoplanets to seek more definite signs of life, as well as clues as to the chemistry, formation and evolution of exoplanets.

A new technique developed by University College, London is claimed to be capable of correcting corrupted or distorted data being transmitted so efficiently that it has effectively doubled the communication distance previously possible in fiber optic cables.

British Airways flew a group of volunteers on flight BA 189 Dreamliner from Heathrow to New York as part of an experiment to study how people react to the night-time flight across time zones. What made this particular flight unusual were the high-tech “happiness blankets” issued to the passengers.

Scientists have used a telepresence system to allow humans and rats to communicate at a distance.

The Vodafone Booster Brolly is a new umbrella designed to help keep mobile phone owners charged and connected when exploring the great outdoors.

UK-based Cella Energy has developed a synthetic fuel that could lead to US$1.50 per gallon gasoline. The hydrogen-based fuel produces no carbon emissions when burned and early indications are that it can be used in existing internal combustion engines without engine modification.

Scientists are working on a protective carbon-negative coating for buildings, that would be produced by artificial cells in a process similar to coral production.