Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge have created a groundbreaking camera that can essentially see around corners using lasers. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize various fields, from search and rescue missions to autonomous vehicle navigation.
They use a laser pulse to bounce photons off surfaces. These photons then travel back to the camera, which can measure how far away an unseen object is. This process allows the camera to reconstruct the hidden scene. Have a look at the video of it in action below.
How It Works
The images are captured every two picoseconds, an incredibly short time frame that allows for precise measurements. The camera emits a laser pulse that scatters photons in multiple directions. When these photons hit an object around a corner, they bounce back to the camera. The time it takes for the photons to return is measured, and this data is used to calculate the distance and shape of the hidden object.
The software then processes this data to form an image of the object, which you can see in the photo below. This method is known as “time-of-flight” imaging, and it is similar to how radar and sonar systems work, but with much higher precision.
Applications and Future Prospects
The potential applications for this technology are vast. In search and rescue operations, for example, this camera could help locate people trapped in collapsed buildings or other hard-to-reach areas. In the field of autonomous vehicles, it could enable cars to “see” around blind corners, significantly improving safety.
Moreover, this technology could be used in medical imaging, allowing doctors to see inside the human body in new ways. It could also have applications in security and surveillance, providing a new tool for monitoring areas that are not directly visible.
One of the most exciting aspects of this technology is its potential for further development. As the software and hardware improve, the resolution and accuracy of the images will likely increase. This could lead to even more applications and make the technology more accessible for various industries.
In addition to its practical applications, this technology also represents a significant advancement in our understanding of light and optics. The ability to capture and interpret photons at such a high speed opens up new avenues for research and exploration.
Source Nature
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