News in Brief Physics

This cloud-zapping laser could help scientists create a quantum internet

A fast-pulsing beam creates a tiny shock wave to dispel water droplets in the air

Laser satellite illustration

PIERCE THE CLOUDS  A shock wave from a high-powered laser (illustrated) can cut a tiny path through cloud cover. The technique could allow a second laser to transmit data to an orbiting satellite.

Xavier Ravinet/UNIGE

By Emily Conover

- More than 2 years ago

On an overcast day, ultrafast lasers could clear a path through the clouds, allowing easier contact with satellites traveling high above Earth.