Macroscopic invisibility cloak for visible light

Phys Rev Lett. 2011 Jan 21;106(3):033901. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.106.033901. Epub 2011 Jan 18.

Abstract

Invisibility cloaks, a subject that usually occurs in science fiction and myths, have attracted wide interest recently because of their possible realization. The biggest challenge to true invisibility is known to be the cloaking of a macroscopic object in the broad range of wavelengths visible to the human eye. Here we experimentally solve this problem by incorporating the principle of transformation optics into a conventional optical lens fabrication with low-cost materials and simple manufacturing techniques. A transparent cloak made of two pieces of calcite is created. This cloak is able to conceal a macroscopic object with a maximum height of 2 mm, larger than 3500 free-space-wavelength, inside a transparent liquid environment. Its working bandwidth encompassing red, green, and blue light is also demonstrated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Anisotropy
  • Calcium Carbonate / chemistry
  • Clothing*
  • Color
  • Humans
  • Light*
  • Optical Phenomena*
  • Vision, Ocular* / radiation effects

Substances

  • Calcium Carbonate