Laser System Can Recreate Hidden Objects In 3D, Reveals Photon Study

Researchers from a Group of Universities - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, the University of Wisconsin, and Rice University carried out a study of photons, which enabled them to see objects through wall. Principle involved in this 'behind-the-wall-vision' is the ability of photons to bounce back on striking an object. The time taken by the photon to move around and bounce back can be used to design geometry of the object.

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The technique uses an ultra high-speed laser and a 2-D streak camera. A streak camera captures image based on the time profile of incoming photons. Hence the photons which strike an object first, reach back earliest and are the first ones to be captured by the camera.  The camera is used at a high rate to produce a steak of images, where every image consists of three or less photons. These steak images are used to calculate the distance traveled by photons (in centimeters), which in turn can be used to design geometry of the object. How wondersome is that?

Via: OSA