Classical vs. Quantum Light Fields
Analogies between quantum entanglement and nonseparable classical structured-light fields are yielding new insights and potential applications.
01 May 2024
New Era for X-Ray Lasers
Kilometer-scale superconducting machines will fire off X-ray flashes up to a million times per second—providing a new view of the atomic world.
01 May 2024
Photonics for Processing Wide-Bandgap Semiconductors
Lasers and advanced optics are key enablers for processing the emerging materials that underpin EVs, power electronics, smart grids and the electrification of society.
01 May 2024
Sound System Boosts Quantum Memory
Converting optical signals into mechanical vibrations could allow data to be stored and then forwarded with new light sources.
23 April 2024
Seeing Purple in the Search for Alien Life
Scientists are cataloging the variety of colors and spectral signatures that could indicate life on another planet.
24 April 2024
Burj Khalifa Lights
It's not Barad-dûr searching for Frodo—it's actually the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE, festooned with LEDs and light beams.
19 April 2024
May 2024 Issue
LATEST NEWS
Seeing Purple in the Search for Alien Life
Scientists are cataloging the variety of colors and spectral signatures that could indicate life on another planet.
24 April 2024
Sound System Boosts Quantum Memory
Converting optical signals into mechanical vibrations could allow data to be stored and then forwarded with new light sources.
23 April 2024
Startup Unveils Record-Resolution microLED Displays
Q-Pixel claims that its 6800-px-per-inch prototype, based on its proprietary color-tunable pixel technology, more than doubles the resolution of current state-of-the-art active displays.
22 April 2024
Silver-Based, Light-Driven Micromotors Fight Bacteria
Team demonstrates a simple method for creating four-pronged micromotors that, when illuminated, can churn through contaminated water, eliminating pathogens in their wake.
20 April 2024
Harnessing UV’s High Reaction Potential
Broadband UV dual-comb spectrometer can provide real-time monitoring of air pollutants and their interaction with the environment.
19 April 2024ADVERTISEMENT
EDITOR'S PICKS
Quantum Promise Becomes Commercial Reality
Companies are starting to capitalize on quantum science—taking the technology out of the lab and into the market.
01 July 2023
Implanted Lenses
With an estimated 20 million surgeries performed each year worldwide, cataract extraction is the most common surgical procedure across all medical fields.
01 June 2023
The Multifaceted Laser Market
The laser industry’s variety of sectors makes prediction difficult—but also provides opportunities for growth.
01 October 2023
Laser Scattering
A 1064-nm laser scattering in a research setup photographed with a 4 MP digital CCD camera.
01 October 2023ADVERTISEMENT
Burj Khalifa Lights
It's not Barad-dûr searching for Frodo—it's actually the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE, festooned with LEDs and light beams.
19 April 2024
Real-World Focus at the Photon Factory
The ultrafast spectroscopy and micromachining lab at the University of Auckland connects fundamental science with industry applications.
01 May 2024
Compact All-Attosecond Spectroscopy
A lab-scale approach creates attosecond pump and probe pulses from a commercial infrared laser.
01 May 2024CAREERS
Taking Advantage of Informational Interviews
Often underappreciated, these conversations can be extremely valuable in your career planning and job search.
02 April 2024
Inclusion in STEM Careers
Optica Ambassadors offer their reflections on building an inclusive, successful career and community.
08 March 2024
Senior Member Insights: Junqing Zhao
A researcher learns to be persistent and follow his passion.
30 January 2024
Senior Member Insights: Rosario Porras-Aguilar
An assistant professor talks about embracing small steps and the importance of self-care.
09 January 2024
Senior Member Insights: Ulrich H. P. Fischer
A professor and CEO discusses the importance of finding the right path.
26 December 2023