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arXiv · 1102.1512

General Relativistic Contributions in Transformation Optics

Robert T. Thompson
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Abstract

One potentially realistic specification for devices designed with transformation optics is that they operate with high precision in curved space-time, such as Earth orbit. This raises the question of what, if any, role does space-time curvature play in determining transformation media? Transformation optics has been based on a three-vector representation of Maxwell's equations in flat Minkowski space-time. I discuss a completely covariant, manifestly four-dimensional approach that enables transformations in arbitrary space-times, and demonstrate this approach for stable circular orbits in the spherically symmetric Schwarzschild geometry. Finally, I estimate the magnitude of curvature induced contributions to satellite-borne transformation media in Earth orbit and comment on the level of precision required for metamaterial fabrication before such contributions become important.

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Robert T. Thompson. 2012-01-19. General Relativistic Contributions in Transformation Optics. https://doi.org/10.1088/2040-8978%2F14%2F1%2F015102

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