Researchers observe optical Magnus effect with trapped ion

An international team at the Paul Scherrer Institute experimentally observed the optical Magnus effect by moving a trapped calcium ion through a tightly focused laser beam. The researchers found that the strongest laser-ion interaction occurs slightly away from the beam center, with the displacement depending on light wavelength rather than focusing strength. The result, published in Physical Review Letters, could affect laser control of trapped-ion qubits. The researchers also said forces created by the effect may offer a way to couple qubits.