'Tractor beam' is possible with lasers, say scientists

Gerald · 03-03-11, 09:06 AM

A laser can act as a "tractor beam", drawing small objects back toward the laser's source, scientists have said.

It is known that light can provide a "push", for example in solar sails that propel spacecraft on a "wind of light".

Now, in a paper on the Arxiv server, researchers from Hong Kong and China have calculated the conditions required to create a laser-based "pull".

Rather than a science fiction-style weapon, however, the approach would only work over small distances.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12620560

Note: 3 March 2011 Last updated at 00:27 GMT

tater · 03-03-11, 05:53 PM

And moving a tiny particle, not a macroscopic object.

03-03-11, 09:06 AM	#1
Gerald SUBSIM Newsman Join Date: May 2008 Location: Close to sea Posts: 24,254 Downloads: 553 Uploads: 0	'Tractor beam' is possible with lasers, say scientists A laser can act as a "tractor beam", drawing small objects back toward the laser's source, scientists have said. It is known that light can provide a "push", for example in solar sails that propel spacecraft on a "wind of light". Now, in a paper on the Arxiv server, researchers from Hong Kong and China have calculated the conditions required to create a laser-based "pull". Rather than a science fiction-style weapon, however, the approach would only work over small distances. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12620560 Note: 3 March 2011 Last updated at 00:27 GMT __________________ Nothing in life is to be feard,it is only to be understood. Marie Curie

03-03-11, 05:53 PM	#2
tater Navy Seal Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: New Mexico, USA Posts: 9,023 Downloads: 8 Uploads: 2	And moving a tiny particle, not a macroscopic object. __________________ "Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one." — Thomas Paine

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode