Science fiction turns fact

Mention the phrase ‘tractor beam’ to a Star Wars fan and they will regale you with a quote from Han Solo or explain to you how tractor beams were used to help guide spacecraft into a safe landing.

Science fiction has a strong record for predicting future trends and a group of ANU physicists could be added to the list after they created a tractor beam on water.

In the latest edition of ANU Reporter, find out how this new technique could be used to confine oil spills, to manipulate floating objects or to explain rips at the beach.

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