3D artist Hannelore Braisch has interpreted Marco's research: diamonds and networks of quantum light at Kottbusser Tor. The background: quantum states can be sent as red light particles — the basis of quantum communication.
Dear Marco, congratulations on winning the BUA ideas competition in the field of quantum physics. What motivated you to take part in the competition?
In addition to research itself, I see science communication as one of the main tasks of a scientist. Research is not only conducted out of self-interest or for possible industrial applications. Science is a cultural asset and, as such, should be made accessible to our fellow human beings. Presenting research through art makes it possible to break down complex relationships and present them in a visually appealing and exciting way. When I heard about the “Art Meets Science” ideas competition, I saw it as a unique opportunity to communicate my research to the public.
Your project is called Sawfish Cavity – named after the nose of a sawfish. How did you come up with this name, and what is the significance of this particular structure?
In our context, a cavity is an optical resonator. Resonators can trap light in a small area and amplify it. They are indispensable components for optical experiments and many technical applications. The most straightforward way to build them is by placing two mirrors opposite each other. When light enters between these mirrors, it is reflected back and forth repeatedly and is trapped between the mirrors for a time until it is either absorbed or escapes from the two mirrors. If more light enters the cavity than escapes, the intensity of the light between the two mirrors increases.
With the Sawfish Cavity, our research group has designed a new resonator structure that exhibits good properties compared to already established cavity structures. In addition, we can use it to transmit light with low loss, e.g., into a fiber optic cable.