ScienceJuly 31, 2026

waveguide

WAVE-gyde

Definition

A structure, typically a tube or channel, designed to guide and confine electromagnetic waves (such as light or radio waves) along a specific path with minimal power loss.

Etymology

The word is a compound of 'wave' (from Old English 'wagian') and 'guide' (from Old French 'guider'), emerging in the early 20th century to describe physical paths for directed energy.

In the news

In the article, a micrometer-scale waveguide is used inside the modulator to confine light within a lithium-niobate crystal, allowing it to be manipulated by an electric field. This containment is essential for maintaining signal integrity and power efficiency over long durations in space.

High-performance electro-optic modulators enable laser metrology onboard LISA space mission

Read the full article ↗

Laser Focus World

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