Structured transverse orbital angular momentum probed by a levitated optomechanical sensor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)
194 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The momentum carried by structured light fields exhibits a rich array of surprising features. In this work, we generate \textit{transverse} orbital angular momentum (TOAM) in the interference field of two parallel and counter-propagating linearly-polarised focused beams, synthesising an array of identical handedness vortices carrying intrinsic TOAM. We explore this structured light field using an optomechanical sensor, consisting of an optically levitated silicon nanorod, whose rotation is a probe of the optical angular momentum, which generates an exceptionally large torque. This simple creation and direct observation of TOAM will have applications in studies of fundamental physics, the optical manipulation of matter and quantum optomechanics.
Original languageEnglish
Article number2638
JournalNature Communications
Early online date6 May 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 May 2023

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Structured transverse orbital angular momentum probed by a levitated optomechanical sensor'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this