Nature Physics Study Reveals Innovative Control Method and Capture of Light Waves
A recently published study in the journal Nature Physics introduced an innovative control method and capture of light waves based on the exotic properties of Lagrange points. Scientists from the University of South California have found that these points, which control the orbits of primary celestial bodies, can play a key role in the direction of optical waves.
Lagrange points, named after the outstanding mathematician, are positions in space where the gravitational force of two bodies in the system, such as the Sun and Jupiter, creates enhanced zones of attraction and repulsion. Researchers Mercedeh Hajavikhan and Demetrios N. Christodulides note that their work is focused on the unique properties of these points.
During the experiments, a compact system was created that mimicked the properties of Lagrange points observed on the orbit of Trojan-type asteroids. The system included a spiral iron wire inserted on Wednesday with a temperature-dependent refractive indicator. By heating this environment using the wire, the researchers were able to form the so-called Trojan optical beam.
What’s intriguing is that the researchers discovered the possibility of controlling and capturing optical rays in this environment with a defocussive refractive indicator, which was previously considered impossible. They note that the optical beam is captured in completely inconspicuous areas where traditional wave-water structures do not exist.
This discovery has the potential to lead to the development of new techniques for directing optical waves in unusual conditions, such as liquids and gases, where traditional approaches are ineffective. Additionally, scientists are considering the possibility of using Trojan rays in enhancing (laser) systems and introducing methods in other areas of physics, such as acoustic wave control or ultra-choreographic atoms.
In the future, there are plans to study the possibility of controlling light in acoustic waves in both liquid and gaseous media. The observation of capturing and transporting dielectric and nanoparticles using optical traction rays in Lagrange points opens up new possibilities that were previously impossible in celestial mechanics.