Scientists create a lightsaber-like laser antenna that transmits radio waves

Scientists have demonstrated a remarkable new antenna that resembles a lightsaber, using a laser to create a tunable beam of plasma capable of transmitting radio waves. The technology could revolutionize wireless communications by allowing antennas to change their size and direction on demand, with promising applications in satellites, radar, and space exploration. Scientists create a lightsaber-like laser antenna that transmits radio waves.

Instead of using a conventional metal structure, the device relies on a laser to create a narrow beam of plasma capable of transmitting radio waves. The technology could eventually make it possible to build antennas that change their length and direction on demand, opening up new possibilities for wireless communications, radar, satellites, and space exploration. "The plasma beam antenna looks like a lightsaber and is tunable, meaning we should be able to transmit across a broad range of frequencies," says Prya Darshni, corresponding author of a journal article on the work and a Ph.D.

"And while we have not demonstrated its ability to serve as an antenna that can receive radio signals, there’s no reason to believe it wouldn’t also work as a receiver." "This is an exciting new concept that enables one to be able to have a customized antenna without complex mechanical deployment mechanisms," says Paul Franzon, co-author of the paper and the Cirrus Logic Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NC State. Why Scientists Want Antennas Made From Plasma Traditional antennas depend heavily on their physical dimensions. In particular, an antenna’s length helps determine which radio frequencies it can efficiently transmit or receive.