A method is provided for utilizing radiation pressure provided by a light wave to generate mechanical work. First, a containment chamber (102) is provided for containing propagation of a light wave therein. Then, a movable reflective mirror (112) having a reflective surface (112) is positioned in the containment chamber. A light wave is then introduced into the containment chamber and directed in the direction of the reflective surface. The light wave contacts the reflective surface and causes radiation pressure to act thereon. The method also provides for communicating and otherwise manipulating the light wave. In this method, the light wave is captured and then intensified. For example, the light wave may be split by operation of a light multiplier (762), or a light wave intensifier, prior to introduction into the containment chamber (702).
