MedGadget -- Bruker BioSpin has just announced their new Icon 1 Tesla desktop MRI scanner for preclinical (animal) and molecular imaging. Although this system is not suitable for human imaging, with the current rate of technical advancements similar systems might become available for humans in the foreseeable future as well. It has a permanent magnet for which no cryogens are needed. There is no magnetic field outside of the scanner and no magnetic or radiofrequency shielding is required for the room where it is placed. Additionally, it has a compact footprint and low running costs.
