Scientists Create Supersolid from Light in Groundbreaking Experiment

This innovative achievement marks the first time light has been transformed into a quantum state that behaves as both a solid and a fluid.

Researchers at Italy's National Research Council (CNR) have successfully turned light into a supersolid, a material with both solid and fluid properties.
Supersolids are quantum materials that exhibit zero viscosity and a crystal-like structure, existing primarily in the quantum realm.
The team used a semiconductor, aluminum gallium arsenide, and a laser to generate hybrid particles called polaritons, which formed the supersolid state.
This experiment diverged from previous methods by avoiding ultracold atoms, showcasing a new mechanism for creating supersolids in non-equilibrium systems.
Scientists believe light-based supersolids could open new avenues for exploring quantum matter and may lead to practical applications in quantum technology.