Articles tagged with "laser-technology"
Laser-powered quantum radio works without electricity or antennas
Physicists at the University of Warsaw have developed the world’s first all-optical quantum radio receiver powered solely by laser light, eliminating the need for traditional metal antennas and electrical circuits. This innovative device uses rubidium atoms excited to Rydberg states by ultra-stable lasers to detect and decode radio waves. When radio signals pass through the rubidium vapor, they subtly alter the atomic electron orbits, causing the emission of faint infrared light that carries the encoded information. The system employs optical cavities to maintain precise synchronization between the lasers and atoms, enabling accurate detection of signal amplitude and phase. This approach allows the receiver to self-calibrate, sense weak fields with high precision, and operate invisibly without interfering with the radio environment. Unlike conventional receivers, the laser-powered quantum radio is non-invasive and free of metal components, making it potentially miniaturizable to fit on optical fibers for remote and discreet sensing. This breakthrough could revolutionize microwave field calibration and enable new applications such as stealth sensors and satellite-based
quantum-radiolaser-technologyquantum-sensingRydberg-atomswireless-communicationoptical-detectionquantum-technologyScientists 'draw' crystals with gold and laser for better solar panels
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a groundbreaking technique to precisely control the growth of crystals by using a single laser pulse targeted at gold nanoparticles. This method enables crystals to form at exact locations and times, overcoming the traditional unpredictability of crystal nucleation and growth. The team focused on lead halide perovskites—materials integral to solar cells, LEDs, and medical imaging—and discovered that laser-induced heating of gold nanoparticles initiates crystallization. Their use of high-speed microscopy allowed real-time observation and steering of crystal formation. This innovative approach effectively allows scientists to "draw" crystals with laser precision, potentially revolutionizing the fabrication of high-quality materials for advanced technologies such as clean energy and quantum devices. The technique not only advances material design but also sheds new light on the fundamental chemistry of crystal formation. Future research aims to employ multiple lasers of different colors to create complex crystal patterns and synthesize novel materials unattainable by conventional methods, with plans to integrate these crystals into practical devices. The study was
materialscrystalslaser-technologygold-nanoparticlessolar-panelsperovskitesclean-energyNew Tiny chip creates 'rainbow laser' for faster data speeds
Researchers at Columbia University, led by Michal Lipson, have developed a tiny chip that generates powerful “frequency combs”—light sources composed of dozens of evenly spaced wavelengths. This innovation enables multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously through a single optical fiber, addressing a critical bottleneck in current fiber-optic networks that typically rely on single-wavelength lasers. The chip effectively cleans up and stabilizes the chaotic output of a high-power multimode laser diode using a locking mechanism, producing a high-coherence, multi-frequency laser source on a compact silicon photonics platform. This breakthrough has significant implications for modern computing and data centers, especially as artificial intelligence drives an exponential increase in data demand. By replacing bulky, expensive laser systems with a single compact device capable of delivering many clean, high-power channels, the technology promises faster, more energy-efficient data transmission and reduced costs and space requirements. Beyond data communications, the chip’s ability to produce precise frequency combs could also benefit applications in compact spectrometers,
IoTsilicon-photonicsfrequency-combdata-centerslaser-technologymicrochipoptical-communicationAustralian firm unveils high-energy laser system for space security
Australian defense company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has unveiled its new Atlas Space Control capability at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2025 in Sydney. The Atlas system is a high-energy laser space control tool designed to address increasing threats to satellites in the congested and contested space environment. It offers flexible deployment options—fixed, mobile, or relocatable—and scalable power levels to support a range of missions from surveillance and deterrence to active space engagement. Equipped with advanced telescopes and dome designs, Atlas enables real-time detection, tracking, and analysis of space objects across various orbits, enhancing space domain awareness both day and night. The system integrates with broader space domain awareness networks and supports joint multi-domain operations, improving intelligence sharing and operational coordination. EOS CEO Dr. Andreas Schwer emphasized that Atlas leverages four decades of EOS expertise in laser technology and space awareness to provide allied forces with reliable, flexible options to maintain freedom of action in orbit amid growing risks to defense and civilian satellites
energylaser-technologyspace-securitysatellite-defensespace-domain-awarenessscalable-power-systemsadvanced-tracking-systemsNew device gives LIGO 10x boost to spot distant gravitational waves
Researchers have developed a new device called FROSTI (FROnt Surface Type Irradiator) that significantly enhances the sensitivity of LIGO, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, by correcting laser-induced distortions on its mirrors. Gravitational waves, which are faint ripples in spacetime caused by cosmic events like black hole mergers, require extremely sensitive detection methods. Increasing laser power improves detection range but causes slight heating and warping of LIGO’s mirrors, which diminishes signal clarity. FROSTI addresses this by projecting controlled heat patterns onto the mirror surfaces to counteract these distortions without adding noise, enabling LIGO to operate effectively at much higher laser powers. This innovation allows gravitational-wave observatories to detect signals from much farther away, potentially increasing the observable volume of the universe by about ten times. This boost could enable astronomers to observe millions of black hole and neutron star mergers and other cosmic phenomena currently beyond detection. The FROSTI system
materialslaser-technologygravitational-wavesopticsthermal-controlscientific-instrumentsLIGOUS firm tests powerful nuclear laser to advance uranium enrichment
Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), a U.S.-based company, has completed a large-scale demonstration testing campaign of its SILEX laser uranium enrichment process at its Test Loop facility in Wilmington, North Carolina. The campaign, which began in May 2024 and will continue through 2025, aims to produce hundreds of pounds of low-enriched uranium (LEU) for nuclear fuel. GLE’s facility is notable as the world’s only uranium enrichment site that is not government-owned or heavily government-funded. The company, jointly owned by Australia’s Silex Systems and Canada’s Cameco Corporation, is working to commercialize this third-generation laser enrichment technology, which is considered more efficient than traditional methods like gaseous diffusion and gas centrifuge. The SILEX process uses highly selective laser excitation to separate the fissile uranium-235 isotope from uranium-238, increasing the concentration of U-235 needed for nuclear reactors. This technology is seen as pivotal for advancing domestic uranium enrichment capabilities in
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentlaser-technologynuclear-fueladvanced-reactorsenergy-supply-chainNew high-energy laser can nullify aerial threats fast at low cost
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has introduced the Iron Beam 450, a high-energy laser weapon system designed to rapidly and cost-effectively neutralize a variety of aerial threats, including rockets, artillery, cruise missiles, and drone swarms. Unveiled at the DSEI defense exhibition in London, the Iron Beam 450 features a 450mm aperture and advanced optics with coherent beam combination technology, enabling precise, stable targeting and rapid retargeting of multiple threats. The system operates at near-zero cost per interception, offering a sustainable alternative to expensive missile-based defenses, and is suitable for both land and naval applications within integrated air and missile defense networks. The Iron Beam 450 represents a significant evolution in Rafael’s directed energy portfolio, promising faster interceptions and an “unlimited magazine” since it relies on concentrated laser energy rather than traditional munitions. Its ability to engage threats at the speed of light and protect ground forces, sensitive facilities, and civilian areas highlights its strategic value amid growing global demand
energyhigh-energy-laserdirected-energy-weaponair-defensemissile-interceptionlaser-technologydefense-systemsBuilding green lasers that last: A story of patents and persistence
The article "Building green lasers that last: A story of patents and persistence" explores the complex engineering challenges behind developing reliable green laser distance meters, despite their clear advantages over traditional red lasers. Green lasers offer significantly better visibility in bright outdoor conditions, making them highly desirable for construction, surveying, and industrial applications. However, the transition from red to green lasers is far from straightforward due to increased power consumption, heat generation, and the lower sensitivity of photodetectors to green light. These factors result in shorter battery life, thermal instability, reduced measurement range, and accuracy issues, especially under harsh outdoor lighting. Beyond the physical and optical challenges, manufacturing green laser modules at scale presents additional hurdles. Green laser components are more difficult and costly to produce consistently, with small variances causing significant performance differences between units. The article emphasizes that engineering a green laser distance meter involves balancing conflicting demands—boosting power to improve range and accuracy increases heat and safety risks, while reducing power compromises performance. Success requires a
materialsenergy-efficiencylaser-technologygreen-laserspower-consumptionheat-managementoptical-engineeringWorld’s largest laser crystal could help China strike satellites
Chinese scientists at the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science have developed the world’s largest barium gallium selenide (BGSe) crystal, measuring 60 millimeters in diameter, designed to enhance long-range laser systems and infrared sensing technologies. This synthetic crystal can convert short-wave infrared lasers into mid- to far-infrared beams, which travel longer distances through the atmosphere with minimal loss. Notably, the crystal withstands laser energy intensities up to 550 megawatts per square centimeter—about ten times higher than most current military-grade materials—making it suitable for ultra-high-power laser applications that previously failed due to internal damage. The creation of this crystal involved a decade of precise, controlled processes, including high-temperature melting, slow cooling, annealing, and meticulous polishing to ensure optical clarity and structural integrity. While the research paper does not explicitly confirm military use, the timing and capabilities of the crystal align with China’s growing interest in directed-energy weapons and space defense, suggesting potential applications
materialslaser-technologysynthetic-crystalsenergy-durabilityinfrared-sensingbarium-gallium-selenidehigh-power-lasersUS funding freeze halts super laser breakthrough for missile defense
The U.S. development of an advanced ultrafast laser technology, intended to enhance missile defense capabilities, has been abruptly halted due to a funding freeze and a stop-work order. This cutting-edge laser system, which emits ultrashort pulses of light with immense power in fractions of a billionth of a second, held promise not only for defense applications such as countering heat-seeking missiles but also for civilian uses including greenhouse gas detection, brain imaging, and materials science research. The project, led by Cornell Engineering professors Jeffrey Moses and Frank Wise, had received over $1 million in funding since 2019 and was approaching critical experimental milestones earlier in 2025. The research team had developed a method to efficiently convert near-infrared laser light to the mid-infrared range, a frequency vital for defense purposes, with significantly higher efficiency than current technologies. However, the imposed stop-work order prevented the final experiments from proceeding, putting the program’s primary goals at risk and potentially redirecting the
energylaser-technologydefense-technologyultrafast-lasersmaterials-sciencenational-securityadvanced-researchJapan achieves 500,000+ tesla magnetic field force with new laser
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a novel technique called bladed microtube implosion (BMI) that generates extremely strong magnetic fields—exceeding 500 kilotesla—using ultra-intense laser pulses directed at small hollow metal cylinders with blade-like internal structures. As the laser heats and compresses the cylinder, the plasma inside spins and creates a powerful electric current, which in turn produces a magnetic field without requiring any external magnetic field to initiate the process. This self-amplifying mechanism mimics star-level magnetic forces and could enable the study of extreme magnetic environments in compact laboratory settings. The breakthrough, led by Professor Masakatsu Murakami, was demonstrated through advanced computer simulations using Osaka University’s SQUID supercomputer and a specialized particle behavior model. Although not yet experimentally verified, the researchers anticipate near-term testing with existing laser systems. Potential applications span space science—simulating magnetized stars and cosmic jets—fusion energy research, particularly improving proton-beam fast ignition techniques, and national defense
energyfusion-energymagnetic-fieldslaser-technologyplasma-physicsOsaka-Universityhigh-energy-physicsWorld's most accurate atomic clock redefines how me measure second
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed the world’s most accurate aluminum ion-based optical atomic clock, setting a new benchmark by measuring a second to its 19th decimal place. This clock is 41% more accurate and 2.6 times more stable than the previous record holder, reflecting two decades of refinement. Unlike traditional cesium atomic clocks, this device uses a single aluminum ion known for its exceptionally steady high-frequency vibrations, paired with a magnesium ion in a “buddy system” through quantum logic spectroscopy. The magnesium ion helps cool the aluminum ion and facilitates precise measurement of its “ticks.” Achieving this unprecedented precision involved overcoming several technical challenges, including redesigning the ion trap to minimize unwanted ion motion and constructing a vacuum chamber from titanium to drastically reduce hydrogen interference. Additionally, the clock benefits from an ultrastable laser developed at JILA, whose beam travels over two miles via fiber optics to NIST, enhancing the clock’s stability and reducing measurement time from weeks
materialsatomic-clockprecision-measuremention-trapquantum-logic-spectroscopylaser-technologytimekeepingA clever glass trick fixes the decade-old photonic crystal laser problem
Engineers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) have solved a decade-old challenge in photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs) by replacing the traditionally used fragile air holes in the photonic crystal layer with embedded silicon dioxide, a solid dielectric material. This innovation prevents the collapse of the photonic crystal structure during semiconductor regrowth, a problem that previously hindered PCSEL development. Despite silicon dioxide being amorphous and difficult for semiconductor growth, the team successfully grew semiconductor layers laterally around the dielectric and merged them via coalescence, enabling the first demonstration of a room-temperature, eye-safe, photopumped PCSEL. This breakthrough creates a more stable, precise, and scalable PCSEL technology capable of producing high-brightness, narrow, circular laser beams suitable for applications such as LiDAR, optical communication, autonomous vehicle sensors, and defense systems. The use of solid dielectric material also simplifies fabrication and enhances device durability. However, the current design requires
materialsphotonic-crystalsilicon-dioxidelaser-technologysemiconductorPCSELoptical-communicationChina's new cotton topping robot automates intensive task at 10x speed
China has developed what is being called the world’s first laser-based autonomous cotton topping robot, jointly created by Xinjiang University and EAVision Robotic Technologies. The machine uses a combination of lasers, lidar, and artificial intelligence to identify and vaporize the top buds of cotton plants with a detection accuracy of 98.9% and a successful topping rate of over 82% in field tests. This process, traditionally labor-intensive and prone to human error or plant damage, is now mechanized to operate roughly 10 times faster than manual labor, covering 0.4 to 0.53 hectares per hour. Unlike chemical or mechanical methods, the robot’s laser approach minimizes plant stress, eliminates herbicide use, and enables continuous operation regardless of weather or time of day. The robot is currently undergoing testing in Xinjiang, China’s largest cotton-producing region, and represents a significant step toward full mechanization of cotton farming. The development involved three years of research to integrate sensor technology, machine vision
robotagriculture-roboticsAIlidarlaser-technologyautonomous-machinessmart-farmingVideo: China’s missile defense-style mosquito zapping laser kills 30 bugs per second
A Chinese company has developed a laser-based mosquito-killing device called Photon Matrix, which reportedly can eliminate up to 30 mosquitoes per second. Utilizing advanced LiDAR technology, the device identifies and targets mosquitoes by detecting their size, angle, and location within three milliseconds, then fires a low-powered laser to neutralize them. Designed to be safe for humans and pets, Photon Matrix scans a 90-degree area and avoids firing if larger objects are detected nearby. The basic version has a range of about 3 meters, while the pro version extends to 6 meters, with prices starting at $468 and $668 respectively on Indiegogo, where the crowdfunding campaign has already met its initial goal. Photon Matrix aims to address the global health threat posed by mosquitoes, which transmit diseases like Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Encephalitis, causing millions of cases and over 100,000 deaths annually. The device is compact, waterproof, and can be powered by portable power
laser-technologymosquito-controlLiDARenergy-efficient-devicespest-managementoutdoor-gadgetssmart-defense-systemTurkey’s new airborne laser zaps heat-seeking missile in first test
Turkey’s defense firm Aselsan has successfully tested its YILDIRIM-100 Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system, designed to detect, track, and neutralize infrared-guided air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles using high-energy, multi-band laser beams. The live-fire trials demonstrated the system’s autonomous capability to identify incoming missile threats and disrupt their seeker heads, forcing missiles off course before impact. The YILDIRIM-100 offers 360-degree hemispherical coverage, can engage multiple simultaneous threats, and features a twin-head turret with fast-tracking sensors and a high-power laser. It integrates with ultraviolet and infrared missile warning systems, boasts low power consumption, reduced size and weight, and an open architecture compatible with NATO standards, making it suitable for both new and legacy aircraft in high-threat environments. Aselsan is also developing an advanced variant, the YILDIRIM-300, tailored for Turkey’s fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet, which is expected to enter
energylaser-technologydirected-infrared-countermeasuremissile-defensemilitary-technologyairborne-systemshigh-energy-lasersUS Army develops 50kW laser-mounted tank to zap drones 5 miles away
The US Army has successfully demonstrated a 50-kilowatt (kW) class solid-state laser mounted on a Stryker A1 8×8 armored vehicle, known as the DE M-SHORAD “Guardian” system, during a live-fire exercise at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This Directed Energy Maneuver-Short-Range Air Defense system integrates high-energy laser technology with traditional kinetic air-defense assets to counter aerial threats such as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), rotary-wing aircraft, and incoming rockets or artillery shells. The laser’s precision thermal effects, guided by advanced electro-optical/infrared sensors and Ku-band radar, enable autonomous target tracking and rapid engagement up to five miles away, marking the Army’s first operational deployment of a mobile high-energy laser weapon. The exercise, led by the 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment and the Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), focused on integrating the laser system into existing
energydirected-energy-weaponslaser-technologymilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-systemsbattery-technologydefense-systemsLaser breakthrough for ultra-intense pulses advance nuclear fusion
Scientists from the University of Oxford and Ludwig-Maximilian University of Munich have developed a novel technique called RAVEN (Real-time Acquisition of Vectorial Electromagnetic Near-fields) to measure the complete profile of ultra-intense laser pulses in a single shot. Tested on Germany’s ATLAS-3000 petawatt-class laser, RAVEN captures distortions and wave shifts in real-time, enabling immediate fine-tuning of the laser system. Unlike previous methods that required hundreds of firings to build a full picture, RAVEN provides a comprehensive spatio-temporal characterization—including shape, timing, and alignment—from just one image, offering unprecedented insights into laser-matter interactions. The technique works by splitting the laser beam, analyzing its color changes over time, and separating light based on polarization through a crystal, with a grid of micro-lenses capturing the pulse’s wavefront structure. This data is then reconstructed by a neural network to reveal the pulse’s detailed profile instantly. This real-time feedback
energylaser-technologynuclear-fusionultra-intense-lasersreal-time-measurementphysics-researchhigh-power-systemsSecret SONGBOW: World-first 400kW laser from US to fry drones in blink
The US Navy has initiated the highly classified SONGBOW program to develop a groundbreaking 400-kilowatt laser weapon system capable of destroying drones, missiles, and other aerial threats mid-air. The Department of Defense awarded a $29.9 million contract to Coherent Aerospace & Defense to design, integrate, and test this advanced directed-energy subsystem for deployment on naval vessels and potentially land platforms. The system will combine multiple 50-kilowatt laser modules into a single, high-powered beam with precision beam control, enabling higher power output without sacrificing accuracy or beam quality. This represents a significant advancement compared to existing naval laser systems, which typically operate between 30 and 100 kilowatts. The SONGBOW laser aims to enhance the Navy’s layered defense strategy by providing a rapid, cost-effective response to evolving threats such as drone swarms and hypersonic missiles, which can overwhelm traditional missile defenses like the Aegis Combat System. Coherent Aerospace & Defense, experienced in high-energy lasers and
energydirected-energy-weaponslaser-technologymilitary-technologydefense-systemshigh-power-lasersfiber-lasersNew laser crystals boost quantum tech and cut rare earth reliance
materialslaser-technologyquantum-computingrare-earth-elementsoptical-materialsfiber-opticsenvironmental-monitoringDARPA beams 800 watts laser power over record breaking 5.3 miles
energywireless-power-transmissionlaser-technologyDARPAmilitary-applicationsphotovoltaic-cellsoptical-power-beamingZEUS: US facility fires world’s most powerful laser at 2 petawatts
energylaser-technologymaterials-sciencequantum-physicsplasma-sciencescientific-discoveryhigh-field-scienceWorld’s fastest quantum switch built by US team for ultra-fast AI
materialsquantum-computinggrapheneultrafast-computingAI-hardwaretransistorslaser-technologyUS’ laser-powered nuclear fusion achieves new net-positive energy records: Report
energynuclear-fusionlaser-technologypower-generationinertial-confinementenergy-yieldcontrolled-fusionLaser-powered fusion experiment more than doubles its power output
energyfusionnuclear-energypower-outputlaser-technologyinertial-confinementclimate-technology