18 Chait, Kathmandu. Scientists have made new history by developing a highly precise ‘phonon laser’ powered by sound vibrations instead of light.

Developed by researchers at the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology, this technology has the potential to revolutionize quantum physics, the study of gravity, and the creation of a future ‘quantum compass’.

According to research published in the journal ‘Nature Communications’, Professor Nick Vamivakas and his team have succeeded in controlling phonons, i.e. individual particles of sound, as lasers.

While conventional lasers invented in the 1960s control photons (particles of light), this new laser controls the mechanical movement or vibration of matter. Previously, accurate measurements were difficult due to ‘noise’ in such lasers.

However, scientists have been able to significantly reduce thermal noise by damping those vibrations using light.

Thanks to this breakthrough, gravity and acceleration can now be measured with the most precision ever. Its biggest use will be in navigation systems that operate without ‘satellites’, which cannot be intercepted by anyone.