# Key Points from IRC Discussions

• Researchers discussed advanced photolithography techniques, comparing laser-based systems with digital micromirror devices (DMD) for applications in DNA synthesis, microelectronics, and microfluidics, noting that functional systems could be built for approximately $1,000 in parts.

• DNA synthesis technologies were extensively discussed, with participants highlighting current poor yields (around 67% per 40-mer) and exploring potential improvements through click chemistry, magnetic beads, and High Efficiency Liquid Phase (HELP) synthesis approaches.

• The group explored polymer-based microlens arrays with high numerical apertures (0.05-0.3) and focal lengths of 100-400 μm, fabricated using UV-curable polymers and ink-jet printing techniques, while also noting the limitations of Fresnel lenses for laser applications.

• Nanopore DNA sequencing technology was examined, particularly Genia Technologies' approach (acquired by Roche for $350M) that combines nanopore-based electrical detection with semiconductor integrated circuits to analyze DNA strands at rates of 2.5-40 nucleotides per second.

• Participants discussed NASA's "Orbiting Rainbows" project, which proposes using clouds of micron-sized particles manipulated by optical tweezers to form kilometer-scale space telescopes, alongside the concept of "optical lift" where specially shaped transparent microparticles experience stable lift forces in light streams.

• The deaths of two significant figures were noted: Alexander Shulgin, an important psychedelic researcher and pharmacologist, and Peter Glaser, a pioneer of Solar Power Satellites who contributed to space settlement concepts and Apollo missions.