Theoretical study of an optical levitation using dual beam from optical fibers inserted at an angle

Optical forces exerted on a microsphere were theoretically investigated in order to corroborate an optical levitation of an object by the laser beams from plural optical fiber ends, which were inserted into a sample cell at a n angle. There was only one stable point of equilibrium located below the b eam-crossing point and greatly enhanced stability could be obtained. Furthe rmore, we revealed the feasibility of trapping an object with large relativ e refractive index. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.