In general theory of relativity, the white holes in gravity are virtual regions of space that cannot be entered from the outside. It is the opposite of a black hole where light and information cannot escape. Researchers from the University of Southampton, Nanyan University of Technology, and Texas A&M University have created optical devices that show intriguing similarities to these objects. The device will either fully absorb the wavelength (optical black hole) or completely reject (optical hole) light, depending on the polarization.
Between the double prism devices with thin film, they appear as a dark light absorbing surface – mimicking a black hole of gravity. Image credit: Nina Vaidia, University of Southampton.
The newly developed device acts as an optical black hole or an optical hole hole and is based on a principle known as coherent complete absorption.
Relying on polarization, this optical device is able to absorb or reject light almost completely, similar to the behavior of gravity black or white holes in space.
This device works by forming a rising wave from an incident light wave. This wave interacts with the ultra-thin absorber, leading to complete absorption or transmission based on the polarization of the light.
Simply put, it behaves like an object of the universe that swallows or repels light.
“Sphere phenomena, especially black holes, have captivated human imagination and exploratory plots for generations,” said Professor Nina Vaidia of the University of Southampton.
“Analog is a way of accessing physics, especially in distant objects such as black holes, as aspects of mathematical frameworks and physical principles are repeated in a surprising way in some systems.
“We present the concept of optical black and white holes that deterministically absorb almost all of the light in one polarization, while rejecting orthogonal polarization.”
“It relies on an experimental demonstration of the complete absorption of broadband coherent in compact devices enabled by spatial coherence and interference, while polarization sensitivity is acquired from the geometric phase of the interfering beam.”
The team’s proof-of-concept experiments show that the optical device manipulates electromagnetic waves in a way that reflects the behavior of gravitational black and white holes.
The simulation shows no reflection from the black hole analog device and the formation of standing waves due to incident interference and reflected light in the white hole.
The results can illuminate fascinating insights and possibilities for manipulating the interaction of light and matter, enabling a wide range of practical applications.
“Our optical devices can be employed as analogues to study and explore the physics of these far-flung astronomical phenomena. Or, in fact, they can provide a practical framework for several potential applications for tailoring electromagnetic waves and enhancing lighting interactions such as detection, energy conversion, multispectral camouflage, and stealth technology.
Team’s work Published in the journal Advanced Photonics.
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Eric Plum et al. 2025. Optical analogue of black and white gravity holes. Advanced Photonics 7 (2): 025001; doi: 10.1117/1.ap.7.2.025001
Source: www.sci.news
