In a breakthrough development, scientists at Brigham Young University’s Electro-Holography Lab have successfully created holograms using two lasers. The holograms appear to float in the air, with generated images and animations looking deceptively real. The technology, called Screenless Volumetric Display Technology, works by moving an aerosol quickly through the room using one laser, while the second laser illuminates the particle. The high speed of this process creates the illusion of a line in the air, visible to both 30-fps cameras and the human eye.
However, the experimental technology currently has a major drawback: it can only create images that are no larger than the volumetric display. This means that only microscopic animations can be generated at present. The scientists have created a presentation video showcasing the technology, featuring two miniature models from the Star Trek universe engaging in a realistic-looking battle with phaser fire, and two figures fighting with light sabers.
The scientists are now working on solving the size problem by changing the perspective of the hologram, creating the illusion that objects are further away. For example, they suggest creating an image of a passing moon behind a tiny 3D-printed house, with the image following the viewer’s gaze to adjust the perspective. While the technology is still in its experimental stages, the potential for creating realistic holograms without the need for a dedicated display is exciting.
In conclusion, the Electro-Holography Lab at Brigham Young University has made a significant breakthrough in hologram technology, using two lasers to create images that appear to float in the air. While the technology is still limited in terms of size, the scientists are working on ways to create the illusion of distance to overcome this issue. The potential for this technology is vast, and it will be interesting to see how it develops in the future.
