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Discrete Time Crystals in Actively Mode-Locked Lasers.
Ruiling Weng1, Elias R Koch2, Jesús Yelo-Sarrión1
1Universitat de les Illes Balears, Departament de Física and IAC, 3, Campus UIB 07122 Mallorca, Spain.
Physical Review Letters
|May 29, 2026
Summary
Researchers observed the first discrete time crystal phases in a semiconductor laser. This discovery allows for new ways to explore and control light phases in photonic systems.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Photonics
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- Time crystals represent a novel phase of matter breaking time-translation symmetry.
- Semiconductor lasers are crucial components in modern photonics and optoelectronics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally observe discrete time crystal phases in an actively mode-locked semiconductor laser.
- To investigate the control and characteristics of these novel phases.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing an actively mode-locked semiconductor laser.
- Tuning bias current and modulation frequency to induce phase transitions.
- Employing a time-delayed model for theoretical validation.
Main Results:
- First experimental observation of discrete time crystal phases and crystallites.
- Demonstration of spontaneous symmetry breaking from a harmonically mode-locked state to stable time crystal states.
- Observation of coexisting time crystal configurations with domain-like structures.
Conclusions:
- Actively mode-locked semiconductor lasers provide an accessible platform for studying nonequilibrium phases of light.
- The findings enable practical implementations of time crystal physics in photonic devices.
- This work opens new avenues for exploring exotic quantum phenomena in engineered light systems.
