New device explores frontiers of the universe and the brain

by Steven Schultz
Physicist Michael Romalis has invented a device that not only could help discover hidden properties of the universe but also probe the workings of the human brain.

The device measures magnetic signals with a sensitivity greater than any current apparatus, opening windows into a remarkable range of scientific disciplines. In physics, scientists believe some of the deepest mysteries of the universe may be revealed in signals that are very much like magnetic fields and pervade all space. In neuroscience, reading weak magnetic signals is an important method for detecting and mapping brain activity.

Romalis said his sensor may one day find even more uses, such as detecting flaws in microchips or performing military surveillance, but his real motivation for building it was simple curiosity.

"Deep down I am really interested in the fundamental questions," said Romalis. The best, he said, are questions so far outside the mainstream experience that their answers cannot be predicted with any confidence. The possibility of undiscovered fields of energy in the universe, only hinted at in the most advanced theories, is that kind of question. "You just have to go measure and find out," he said. "At the same time, I feel good that we now have this technology and can get something useful out of it."

Read the full story in the Weekly Bulletin.