Chinese inventor have created a laser device that can wipe out mosquitoes in mid-air. The device, called the Photon Matrix. Its creator, Jim Wong from Changzhou, says it is the world’s first “mosquito air defense system” that uses LiDAR technology to detect and zap mosquitoes with precision lasers.
“This is not just another gadget. It’s a revolution in how we fight one of the deadliest animals on the planet,” Wong said during his Indiegogo campaign launch. “Our goal was to create something safe, effective, and futuristic.”
Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading diseases like malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya. Every year, these insects cause millions of illnesses and hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide.
For decades, human has relied on insecticides, bed nets, and repellents to fight back. However, these methods come with drawbacks. Sprays often harm the environment and lead to resistant mosquito strains, while bed nets are only useful during sleep.
Wong said “With Photon Matrix, we can create safe zones where mosquitoes simply don’t survive,” he explained.
The Photon Matrix looks like a small, sleek box. But inside, it has LiDAR sensors and a powerful laser system. The LiDAR module scans the area and detects flying insects in just three milliseconds. Once a mosquito is identified, a second laser locks on and fires, killing the insect instantly.
The device is designed with safety in mind. It scans for larger objects like people or pets and stops firing if anything else enters its field of view. Wong reassures buyers that the device meets “mandatory safety certifications” for indoor and outdoor use.
“It’s safer than a bug zapper and way more effective,” Wong said. “You can use it in your living room, your backyard, or even a dark bedroom. It doesn’t matter where. It works day and night.”
The Photon Matrix comes in two versions. The basic edition has a range of about three meters, while the pro version doubles that to six meters. Both models have a 90-degree scan angle and are waterproof, making them suitable for outdoor use even in the rain.
The early price for the basic model is $468, and the pro model costs $668. The planned retail prices are $697 and $897, respectively. Wong also offers optional power banks that can keep the device running for up to 16 hours.
“We designed it to be plug-and-play,” Wong added. “You don’t need any technical skills to set it up. Just power it on, and it starts creating a mosquito-free zone.”
The idea of using lasers to fight mosquitoes isn’t entirely new. In 2007, astrophysicist Lowell Wood suggested a similar concept at a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation meeting. Prototypes were later built using parts from cell phones and laser printers. However, early designs were unsafe for human eyes and never made it to mass production.
Wong says his team’s version is different thanks to advances in LiDAR and laser technology. “The technology has finally caught up with the dream,” he said.
The Photon Matrix is still a prototype, and Wong’s Indiegogo campaign is his first. There’s no official company name behind the project, which has raised concerns about production timelines and long-term support.
Still, Wong remains confident. He promises that the first units will ship in October 2025, with mass production planned for March 2026.
“I know people are skeptical. But we’re ready to prove them wrong. This is the future of pest control,” Wong said.
If successful, the Photon Matrix could inspire similar devices to target other pests like flies and ticks. Environmentalists also see potential in the technology as it avoids harmful chemicals and protects biodiversity.
“This could save lives in malaria-affected regions,” said Dr. Li Xian, a public health expert. “But only real-world testing will show if it’s truly effective.”
Videos of the prototype in action have gone viral, with many users calling it “the Star Wars mosquito killer” and praising its design.
Wong said in the end, “We can’t bring lightsabers into your home yet, but we can give you a laser powerful enough to keep mosquitoes out. And that’s a good start.”
Salute China, which is undoubtedly 50 years ahead of rest of the countries.