'Tractor beam' created
Sunday 27 January 2013
Printable
EmailScientists at St Andrews University have created a real-life miniature version of the "tractor beam" featured in the Star Trek sci-fi series which could be used in medical testing.
Medicine research fellow Dr Tomas Cizmar has led a team to find a way of generating a special optical field that efficiently reverses radiation pressure of light.
Dr Cizmar said: "Because of the similarities between optical and acoustic particle manipulation, we anticipate that this concept will provide inspiration for exciting future studies in areas outside the field of photonics."
It is hoped it could lead to more efficient medical testing, such as in the examination of blood samples.
If you appreciated this article then please consider donating to the Morning Star's Fighting Fund to ensure we can keep developing your paper.
Editorial
It doesn't have to be like this
Official inflation figures understate the real extent of rising costs, but even the government's own CPI scheme lays bare the ongoing misery for working people and those dependent on benefits.
Features
A strategy for our victory
The Con-Dems have had it their way too long. We have to turn this country around
Education for all: let's make it a reality
How high-quality primary schooling could help solve global poverty