The life on Mars dilemma and the sample return mission

The dilemma of whether there is life on Mars impacts on the method used for sampling. The NASA Mars Sample Return Mission should be used to resolve the problems

Theory of THz Conductivity in the Pseudogap Phase of the Cuprates: A Pre-Formed Pair Perspective

In this paper we deduce transport properties in the presence of a pseudogap associated with precursor superconductivity. Our theoretical analysis is based on the widely adopted self energy expression reflecting this normal state gap, which has appeared in interpretations of photoemission and in other experiments. Thus, it should be generally applicable. Here we address THz conductivity $\sigma (\omega) = \sigma_1(\omega) + i \sigma_2(\omega)$ measurements in the underdoped high temperature superconductors and arrive at reasonable agreement between theory and recent experiment for both $\sigma_1$ and $\sigma_2$ above and below $T_c$.Comment: 8 pages, 2 figure

The Edge Electric Field of a Pyroelectric and its Applications

Following a change of temperature of a pyroelectric (PE), a depolarizing electric field appears both inside the PE, as well as outside its edges, the edge depolarizing electric field (EDEF). The EDEF extends outwards up to a distance of the order of magnitude of the PE width. The mapping and the strength of the EDEF have been calculated and analyzed for the case of a semi-infinite pyroelectric plate. This strong EDEF (104-105 V/cm), when penetrating into the surrounding medium, creates a variety of physical effects: inducing electrical current in a semiconductor and affecting its resistance, accelerating charged and neutral particles in vacuum or in a gas, generating electromagnetic waves, modifying optical characteristics by electrooptical and photoelasic effects, generating piezoelectric deformation and more. We show that these EDEF induced effects could serve as a basis for the development of various applications and devices.Comment: 27 pages including 13 figure

Radioisotopic Biochemical Probe for Extraterrestrial Life Fifth Annual Progress Report

Radiosotopic biochemical probe for extraterrestrial life - Gulliver progra