Physicists discover “astonishing” property of light that defies expectations

Scientists have uncovered a surprising hidden ability of light that allows it to develop spinning, twisting behavior as it travels through empty space, without special lenses, mirrors, or materials. Researchers discovered that light’s internal geometry can naturally produce left- and right-handed patterns, challenging long-standing assumptions about how light behaves. By carefully arranging a beam’s structure, scientists can control where and how these spinning patterns emerge, unlocking a new way to manipulate light.

Physicists discover “astonishing” property of light that defies expectations. The finding reveals that light possesses a hidden geometric structure that can influence its behavior in ways researchers previously thought were difficult to achieve. The discovery comes from an international team led by researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) in the United Kingdom, working with scientists in South Africa.

Their experiments demonstrate that carefully prepared light can be controlled through its own internal geometry, offering a new approach to manipulating how light spins and twists. The findings challenge long-standing assumptions about how different properties of light interact. They could eventually lead to more sensitive medical tests, faster and more secure communications, and advanced quantum technologies that use light to transmit and protect information.