Optical finite representation of the Lorentz group

Abstract

We present a class of photonic lattices with an underlying symmetry given by a finite-dimensional representation of the 2+1D Lorentz group. In order to construct such a finite-dimensional representation of a non-compact group, we have to design a $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric optical structure. Thus, the array of coupled waveguides may keep or break $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetry, leading to a device that behaves like an oscillator or directional amplifier, respectively. We show that the so-called linear $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric dimer belongs to this class of photonic lattices.