Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Cooling technology developed at WPI is undergoing a long-term test aboard the International Space Station

Astronomy

Electrohydrodynamic cooling system to beat the heat on deep space missions

A team of mechanical engineers at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute is working on a new electrical cooling system that has no moving parts. Already being tested aboard the International Space Station, the electrohydrodynamic cooler uses electrically charged fluids to carry away heat.

Worcester's Prof. Erkan Tüzel (left) and PhD candidate James Kingsley examine the SPARTAN device

Science

Scientists sort sperm – using an obstacle course

When performing in vitro fertilization, it's important to use the "best" sperm possible. And while there are already sorting methods that select the fastest-swimming sperm, a new microfluidic device also ensures that they're the healthiest.

Weathers has made several high-producing versions of the plant using tissue cultures

Body and Mind

Plant powder snatches malaria victims from death's door

When 18 malaria patients in the Congo failed to respond to conventional treatments, doctors knew they had to act fast – and try something different. So instead of turning to more synthetic drugs, they turned instead to nature and found a solution that delivered remarkable results.