Invisibility Cloak - new advances

  • Thread starter Chaos' lil bro Order
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses the work being done by Zhang of Berkeley on 'metamaterials', which have the ability to bend light. These materials have potential applications in creating invisibility cloaks and improving fiber optic switching. The conversation also mentions a prototype invisibility suit created by a team in Japan.
  • #1
Chaos' lil bro Order
683
2
http://www.berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2008/08/11_light.shtml

An interesting article about work being done by Zhang of Berkeley on 'metamaterials', which are materials capable of bending light, which is useful for bending light around objects to make them invisible. They are also being considered for fibre optic switching, since they can slow light down and improve on one of the internet's bottleneck's, signal switching.

Enjoy. Comments welcome and appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Going to have a read this arvo, thanks for the link :D
 
  • #3
I am curious if anyone knows of any prototype invisibility suits. As I recall a team in Japan made one that was semi invisible but but entirely.
 

1. How does an invisibility cloak work?

An invisibility cloak works by using advanced materials and technology to manipulate light and redirect it around an object or person, making them appear invisible to the naked eye. This is achieved by bending and refracting light waves, essentially creating an "invisible" barrier around the object.

2. What new advances have been made in the development of invisibility cloaks?

Recent advances in metamaterials and nanotechnology have allowed for the creation of more efficient and compact invisibility cloaks. These new materials have also made it possible to manipulate a wider range of wavelengths, making the cloaks more versatile and effective.

3. Are invisibility cloaks currently available for purchase?

No, invisibility cloaks are still in the research and development stage and are not available for purchase to the general public. However, some prototypes have been created and are being tested for various applications, such as military camouflage and medical imaging.

4. Can an invisibility cloak make a person completely invisible?

While an invisibility cloak can make an object or person appear invisible, it cannot completely erase their presence. For example, a person wearing an invisibility cloak would still cast a shadow and may be visible through thermal imaging technology.

5. What are the potential uses for invisibility cloaks?

Invisibility cloaks have a wide range of potential uses in various industries, including military, medical, and entertainment. They could be used for stealth operations, medical imaging and treatments, and special effects in movies and TV shows. They could also have practical applications in everyday life, such as creating more efficient solar panels or improving wireless communication signals.

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
66
Views
12K
Back
Top