Lior Michaeli, Ramon Gao, Michael D. Kelzenberg, Claudio U. Hail, Adrien Merkt, John E. Sader, Harry A. Atwater
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Ultrathin lightsails propelled by laser radiation pressure to relativistic speeds are currently the most promising route for flyby-based exoplanet exploration. However, there has been a notable lack of experimental characterization of key parameters essential for lightsail propulsion. Here we present a platform for optomechanical characterization and model development of laboratory-based lightsail prototypes. We propose an approach for simultaneous measurement of optical forces and powers based on the multiphysics dynamics induced by the excitation laser beam. By modelling the lightsail with a 50-nm-thick microscopic silicon nitride membrane suspended by compliant springs, we quantify force from off-resonantly driven displacement and power from heating-induced mechanical mode softening. With this approach, we calibrate the measured forces to the driving powers by operating the device as a micromechanical bolometer. We report radiation pressure forces of 70 fN using a collimated beam of 110 W cm−2 and noise-robust common-path interferometry. Moreover, we quantify the effects of incidence angle and spot size on the optical force and explain the non-intuitive trend by edge scattering. As lightsails will also experience lateral forces, we demonstrate measurement of in-plane motion via grating interferometry. Our results provide a framework for comprehensive lightsail characterization and optomechanical manipulation of macroscopic objects by radiation pressure forces.
期刊介绍:
Nature Photonics is a monthly journal dedicated to the scientific study and application of light, known as Photonics. It publishes top-quality, peer-reviewed research across all areas of light generation, manipulation, and detection.
The journal encompasses research into the fundamental properties of light and its interactions with matter, as well as the latest developments in optoelectronic devices and emerging photonics applications. Topics covered include lasers, LEDs, imaging, detectors, optoelectronic devices, quantum optics, biophotonics, optical data storage, spectroscopy, fiber optics, solar energy, displays, terahertz technology, nonlinear optics, plasmonics, nanophotonics, and X-rays.
In addition to research papers and review articles summarizing scientific findings in optoelectronics, Nature Photonics also features News and Views pieces and research highlights. It uniquely includes articles on the business aspects of the industry, such as technology commercialization and market analysis, offering a comprehensive perspective on the field.