Topic
Light
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New exotic phenomena seen in photonic crystals
Researchers observe, for the first time, topological effects unique to an “open” system.
January 11, 2018 -
Tiny “motors” are driven by light
Researchers demonstrate nanoscale particles that ordinary light sources can set spinning.
June 30, 2017 -
New system allows optical “deep learning”
Neural networks could be implemented more quickly using new photonic technology.
June 12, 2017 -
New method for analyzing crystal structure
Exotic materials called photonic crystals reveal their internal characteristics with new method.
November 25, 2016 -
Study opens new realms of light-matter interaction
Some “forbidden” light emissions are in fact possible, could enable new sensors and light-emitting devices.
July 14, 2016 -
Researchers discover new way to turn electricity into light, using graphene
By slowing down light to a speed slower than flowing electrons, researchers create a kind of optical “sonic boom.”
June 13, 2016 -
Mixing solids and liquids enhances optical properties of both
New approach can dramatically change the extent to which optical devices scatter light.
June 9, 2016 -
A nanophotonic comeback for incandescent bulbs?
Researchers combine the warm look of traditional light bulbs with 21st-century energy efficiency.
January 11, 2016 -
Particles accelerate without a push
New analysis shows a way to self-propel subatomic particles, extend the lifetime of unstable isotopes.
January 20, 2015 -
Trapping light with a twister
New understanding of how to halt photons could lead to miniature particle accelerators, improved data transmission.
December 22, 2014 -
Running the color gamut
MIT spinout’s quantum-dot technology makes LCD TVs more colorful, energy-efficient.
November 19, 2014 -
Teaching light new tricks
Graduate student Wade Hsu and colleagues confine light to a crystal surface and design a transparent display using nanoparticles.
August 22, 2014 -
A mirror with a peephole
MIT graduate student Yichen Shen designs a photonic crystal system that lets light pass through at a specific angle.
August 12, 2014 -
Vision-correcting displays
Technology could lead to e-readers, smartphones, and displays that let users dispense with glasses.
July 31, 2014 -
Faculty highlight: Marin Soljacic
Physicist reveals new techniques for controlling light by angle, creating transparent displays and photonic crystal bandgaps.
July 29, 2014 -
Making the cut
Lincoln Laboratory spinout is commercializing the first direct-diode laser bright enough to cut and weld metal.
July 23, 2014 -
Harnessing the speed of light
Nicholas Fang pushes the limits of light to improve performance in communication, fabrication, and medical imaging.
July 8, 2014 -
A new angle on controlling light
System could provide first method for filtering light waves based on direction.
March 27, 2014 -
A new wrinkle in the control of waves
Flexible materials could provide ways to manipulate sound and light.
January 24, 2014 -
A new way to trap light
MIT researchers discover a new phenomenon that could lead to new types of lasers and sensors.
July 10, 2013