Scientists at CUNY Graduate Center have recreated the process of extracting energy from a spinning black hole using a stationary device that simulates extreme rotation through rapid changes in electromagnetic properties—marking a breakthrough from theoretical physics to experimental reality.
- Synthetic rotation mimics spinning black holes without physical motion
- Wave amplification achieved through time-engineered electromagnetic resonators
- Potential breakthrough for optics, wireless communications, and quantum tech
What happened
For more than 50 years, physicists have theorized about extracting energy from rapidly spinning black holes, particularly through the ergosphere where spacetime is twisted by rotation. Sir Roger Penrose initially proposed that particles could split in this region, enabling one fragment to escape with extra energy. Later, Yakov Zel'dovich predicted that waves interacting with a sufficiently fast-rotating object could similarly gain energy through amplification.
Building on these theories, researchers at the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center created an experimental setup that simulates ultrafast rotation without any moving parts. By rapidly modifying the electromagnetic properties of a ring of resonators in a coordinated pattern, the device generates the illusion of extreme spin, allowing waves passing through to extract energy and amplify—effectively recreating the physics of energy extraction from spinning black holes.
Why it feels good
This experiment transforms a once purely theoretical concept into a practical laboratory tool. By using synthetic rotation rather than mechanical movement, the researchers circumvent long-standing technical challenges, opening the door to controlled study of extreme rotational physics which was previously inaccessible. The success highlights human creativity in translating complex cosmic phenomena into tangible experiments.
Moreover, the ability to amplify waves selectively based on rotational properties has exciting implications beyond astrophysics. It suggests new methods for manipulating electromagnetic waves that could enhance technologies in optics, wireless communications, and quantum information processing, potentially leading to faster, more efficient devices and novel scientific discoveries.
What to enjoy or watch next
The CUNY team continues to explore how these synthetic rotation techniques can be extended to other systems, including photonic and quantum platforms. Their work promises further insights into wave behavior and energy dynamics inspired by the cosmos, with exciting possibilities for future devices that could control light and information in unprecedented ways.
As these experimental platforms mature, watch for emerging technologies that harness these principles to improve communication networks, optical devices, and quantum computing. This fusion of high-level physics with practical engineering illustrates the evolving landscape of scientific discovery where black hole science inspires innovations in everyday technology.