Optical Forces

Light is made up of tiny waves of energy. By looking at how these waves interfere with one another, we can detect motions that are a billion times smaller than a meter. Light also carries momentum, which means it can push or pull on physical objects. Light is therefore a powerful tool that enables us to measure and manipulate objects with tremendous precision.

At Q.InC, we are building optically levitated quantum sensors. Using a powerful laser beam, we aim to levitate a mirror the size of a thumbnail. This will float on an ‘optical spring’ made entirely of light. The properties of this spring can be tuned dynamically to amplify faint signals and eliminate noise. These sensors could detect faint gravitational signals, allowing us to map out hidden structures or resources under the earth, or measure gravitational waves from distant cosmic events.

For more information contact lecamwasam_ruvindha_lakshan@imre.a-star.edu.sg.

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