The Tractor Beam Team
Australian National University scientists have devised a way to move tiny particles relatively long distances using a laser. And by long, I mean a meter and a half. While this isn't the USS Enterprise's
tractor beam, it is a step in that direction. Although this method will not work in space it does work here In Earth's atmosphere by using a hollow laser beam to trap particles in what is called a 'dark core'.
tractor beam, it is a step in that direction. Although this method will not work in space it does work here In Earth's atmosphere by using a hollow laser beam to trap particles in what is called a 'dark core'.
According to Professor Andrei Rode, head of ANU's laser centre, “When the small particles are trapped in this dark core very interesting things start to happen.” As particles inside the beam interact with gravity, air circulation or random airflow, the particle moves out of the direct center of the beam. The particle then becomes illuminated on one side as it touches the laser wall which in turn creates movement or thrust, (known as a photophoretic force), to push the particle back into the dark core."
Professor Rode goes on to say, “In addition to the trapping effect, a portion of the energy from the beam and the resulting force pushes the particle along the hollow laser pipeline.” While we can't yet hold a Romulan war bird from moving, we can expect new ways of moving mass in the future. See more here.
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