A groundbreaking project by inventor Brian Haidet, published on his AlphaPhoenix channel, has captured a laser beam at an astonishing 2 billion frames per second. This remarkable feat, while only a one pixel by one pixel video, showcases the potential of high-speed imaging technology. By repeating the video multiple times, Haidet effectively creates a full rendering that presents a captivating visual experience.
To achieve this new speed, Haidet completely overhauled his original setup, which had previously recorded at 1 million frames per second in December 2022. The upgrades included enhancements to the motors, hardware, and oscilloscope, as well as improvements to the signaling, recording software, and processing software. Essentially, he reengineered every component of his apparatus to reach the new benchmark.
Exploring the Phenomenon of Light Speed
One of the most intriguing outcomes of this experiment is the visual effect of light appearing to travel faster when it is directed towards the camera compared to when it moves away. This phenomenon occurs due to the nature of the setup. Laser beams reflecting off fog particles closer to the camera arrive sooner than those bouncing back from particles that are further away. This observation effectively visualizes the principles of special relativity in a practical experiment conducted in Haidet’s garage.
Haidet’s work stands as a testament to the advancements in imaging technology. By pushing the limits of what is possible, he not only entertains viewers but also educates them about complex scientific concepts through practical demonstrations.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of Haidet’s experiment, additional materials are available, providing further insights into the technology and methodology behind this innovative project.
