Optical levitation
（重定向自Laser levitation）
![A force diagram showing how vertical and lateral stabilization occurs in a vertically oriented optical trap.](/Images/godic/202501/23/Optical_Trap_Ray_Optics_Explanation1701.jpg")
Optical levitation is a method developed by Arthur Ashkin whereby a material is levitated against the downward force of gravity by an upward force stemming from photon momentum transfer. Typically photon radiation pressure of a vertical upwardly directed and focused laser beam of enough intensity counters the downward force of gravity to allow for a stable optical trap capable of holding small particles in suspension.