Chinese scientists have demonstrated a laser that can create hieroglyphs in the air. Lasers have already been used to create a number of optical illusions, but previously they needed dust or clouds as a medium. The new device does without it.

The laser can paint patterns anywhere, using ultra-short pulses to strip electrons from air molecules and convert them to light, the researchers say. In essence, plasma or ionized gas is created.

Due to the extremely short pulse duration, the peak power of the laser “pen” can reach one million megawatts, which is close to the total power generation capacity of the United States.

Scientists hope that one day this technology will find practical applications in fields such as precision manufacturing, neuroimaging, medical instruments and quantum computing.