Receive emails about upcoming NOVA programs and related content, as well as featured reporting about current events through a science lens. Kelvin’s idea was inspired by the work of Hermann Helmholtz, ...

A giant quantum vortex may allow researchers to study black holes. This vortex is an eddy in a special form of liquid helium that displays quantum effects. The result has some properties similar to ...

This calculated diffraction image shows how forked diffraction gratings shape the atoms' wave function into a vortex. (Courtesy: Science/AAAS) A wave-like property previously only seen in beams of ...

The beams could be used to peak at unseen subatomic details. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Breaking space news, the latest ...

Physicists have created the first-ever atomic vortex beam — a swirling tornado of atoms and molecules with mysterious properties that have yet to be understood. By sending a straight beam of helium ...