  Synchronization of weakly-coupled non-linear oscillators is a ubiquitous
phenomenon that has been observed across the natural sciences. We study the
dynamics of optomechanical arrays - networks of mechanically compliant
structures that interact with the radiation pressure force - which are driven
to self-oscillation. These systems offer a convenient platform to study
synchronization phenomena and have potential technological applications. We
demonstrate that this system supports the existence of long-lived chimera
states, where parts of the array synchronize whilst others do not. Through a
combined numerical and analytical analysis we show that these chimera states
can only emerge in the presence of disorder.
