• Researchers at the University of Southampton created a laboratory analog of a 'black hole bomb,' confirming a theory proposed by Roger Penrose in 1969 and Yakov Zel'dovich in 1971.
• The experiment uses a rotating aluminum cylinder and electromagnetic 'mirrors' to mimic the energy amplification process theorized to occur near black holes.
• This breakthrough could pave the way for detecting dark matter and understanding superradiance, potentially revolutionizing particle detection methods.

Physicists at the University of Southampton have successfully created a 'black hole bomb' in a laboratory setting, simulating a phenomenon theorized decades ago. The experiment involves a rotating aluminum cylinder surrounded by a reflective mechanism, mimicking a black hole's ergosphere. This setup allows for the amplification of electromagnetic waves, mirroring the process by which energy can be extracted from a rotating black hole. The controlled experiment not only confirms theoretical predictions but also opens new avenues for exploring black hole physics and potentially detecting dark matter.

• What: Creation of a 'black hole bomb' analog in the laboratory, simulating the extraction and amplification of energy from a rotating black hole using a rotating aluminum cylinder and electromagnetic mirrors.
• Who: Researchers at the University of Southampton, led by Hendrik Ulbricht and including Marion Cromb. Key theorists: Roger Penrose and Yakov Zel'dovich. Vitor Cardoso from the University of Lisbon provided expert commentary.
• When: Experiment conducted and results published in April 2025 (based on article publication dates). The theoretical groundwork was laid by Roger Penrose in 1969 and Yakov Zel'dovich in 1971.
• Where: University of Southampton, UK (laboratory setting).

The successful creation of a 'black hole bomb' analog is a significant achievement in physics, validating theoretical predictions made decades ago. The experiment provides a tangible way to study the complex phenomena occurring near black holes, particularly the extraction and amplification of energy through superradiance. The potential implications are far-reaching, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of black hole physics, aiding in the detection of dark matter, and opening new avenues for energy extraction technologies. The experiment's ability to generate a signal from noise mirrors the processes occurring in real black holes, providing a valuable tool for further research.

You throw a low-frequency electromagnetic wave against a spinning cylinder, who would think that you get back more than what you threw in? It’s totally mind boggling.

We’re basically generating a signal from noise, and that is the same thing that happens in the black hole bomb proposal.

The creation of a 'black hole bomb' analog represents a major step forward in understanding black hole physics and related phenomena. This experiment confirms long-held theories and provides a valuable platform for further research into superradiance, dark matter detection, and energy extraction. While the experiment is a 'toy model,' its adherence to the same physical principles as real black holes makes it a powerful tool for unlocking the universe's deepest secrets. Future research aims to refine the experimental setup and observe spontaneous electromagnetic wave generation, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge.