COSMOS MAGAZINE
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a system that uses high-frequency “Airy beam” microwaves (100–300 GHz) to bend signals around obstacles, addressing a major challenge for next-generation wireless communication.
Credit: Chen et al 2025, Nature Communications, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-62443-0 (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)
a) The radiation pattern of a self-healing finite-energy Airy beam. b) A desired Airy beam generated at a specified distance and orientation. c) An infinite number of feasible Airy trajectories can be configured between the transmitter to the receiver. This shows 3 examples. d) The received power of the 3 example beam configurations with and without the blocker.
Credit: Chen et al 2025, Nature Communications, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-62443-0 (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)
Airy beams, first theorised in 1979 and experimentally observed in 2007, can curve around objects without losing intensity, allowing signals to reach receivers even when line-of-sight is blocked.
Credit: Chen et al 2025, Nature Communications, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-62443-0 (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)
The team used deep learning to optimise the beams’ trajectories, enabling the system to adapt in real time to moving obstacles and receivers.
Credit: Chen et al 2025, Nature Communications, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-62443-0 (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)
This breakthrough could enable ultra-fast, reliable wireless connectivity for applications like immersive virtual reality and fully autonomous transportation.
The researchers used a specially designed metasurface to direct the Airy beam transmissions. Credit: Aaron Nathans/Princeton University