Shape- preserving Accelerating Beams in Curved Space |
Abstract: | We present the first experimental observation of shape-preserving accelerating beams in curved space. More specifically, we study, theoretically and experimentally, shape-preserving accelerating beams propagating on spherical surfaces. We find close form-solutions to the wave equation that manifests non-geodesic dynamics, resulting in wavepackets that are propagating on trajectories different from a shortest path between two points. The evolution of these beams is manifesting the intriguing interplay between interference effects and the curvature of space, self-reproducing in periodic fashion once in a hemisphere. Finally, we study a new platform for experimenting with optics in curved space: optical beams propagating within the shell of a soap bubble (probably the thinnest natural liquid film possible). Surprisingly, a laser beam launched into the shell of a soap bubble is propagating without a diffraction, regardless of power, thermal effects, and soap concentration. Can this have anything to do with the molecular rearrangement? |