Friday, 26 September, 2008
Self-Induced Oscillations in an Optomechanical System Driven by Bolometric Backaction
C. Metzger, M. Ludwig, C. Neuenhahn, A. Ortlieb, I. Favero, K. Karrai, and F. Marquardt -
Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 133903 (2008)
We have explored the nonlinear dynamics of an optomechanical system consisting of an illuminated Fabry-Perot cavity, one of whose end mirrors is attached to a vibrating cantilever. The backaction induced by the bolometric light force produces negative damping such that the system enters a regime of nonlinear oscillations. We study the ensuing attractor diagram describing the nonlinear dynamics. A theory is presented that yields quantitative agreement with experimental results. This includes the observation of a regime where two mechanical modes of the cantilever are excited simultaneously.