Reinventing the Zel'Dovich Wheel

Abstract

After reviewing the pioneering work by Zel'Dovich in which radiation is amplified perpendicular to the axis of a rotating conductor, we consider an alternative scattering arrangement. We demonstrate superradiant amplification of electromagnetic waves with orbital angular momentum, directed axially towards a rotating conductor. Taking into account recent advances in optics and condensed matter systems, our approach presents new possibilities for rotational superradiance experiments. We discuss remaining challenges that must be faced before a laboratory observation of the Zel'Dovich effect can be considered feasible.