Active optomechanics

Abstract Cavity optomechanics explores the coupling between optical and mechanical modes mediated by radiation pressure force. Unlike passive scheme, active with gain directly imposes motion upon lasing dynamics, unveiling intrinsic properties determined system itself. Here we numerically explore general characteristics of optomechanics. The effects oscillation on macroscopic laser include introducing multiple unstable regimes in phase, shifting central frequency, broadening spectrum, degrading frequency stability. Reducing down to one atom highlights quantum nature atom–cavity photon–phonon interactions. one-atom optomechanical microlaser does not only emit nonclassical photons but also generate pairs. Our work extends cavity fashion, paving way towards light sources for photonic integrated circuits, on-chip communication, biosensing.