Anna Consortini, The President of the International Commission for Optics (ICO), has accommodated a broad spectrum of optical science topics in Trends in Optics. This book, a compilation of research reviews written by outstanding figures in the field of optics, is aimed not only at specialists in the optical sciences, but also at scientists in other fields who might want to broaden their knowledge of optics. The latest developments in this rapidly progressing field are described, and new applications are detailed--including some previously undisclosed material on the U.S. 'Star Wars project. Authoritative and approachable, this volume should provide comprehensive insight into the ever-expanding optical sciences. Key Features * Edited by the president of the International Commission for Optics * Includes research reviews written by experts in the field * Compiles a wide range of topics in optical science

Optics and photonics offer new and vibrant approaches to meeting the challenges of the 21st century concerning energy conservation, education, agriculture, personal health and the environment. One of the most effective ways to address these global problems is to provide updated and reliable content on light-based technologies. Optical thin films and meta-materials, lasers, optical communications, light-emitting diodes, solar cells, liquid crystal technology, nanophotonics and biophotonics all play vital roles in enriching our lives. We hope to raise readers’ awareness of how optical technologies are now promoting sustainable development and providing reliable solutions to basic human needs. Furthermore, in order to broaden new research fields, we hope to inspire them to pursue further cutting-edge breakthroughs on the basis of the accomplishments that have already been made.

International Trends in Optics provides a broad view of work in the field of optics throughout the world. Topics range from quantum optoelectronics for optical processing to optics in telecommunications, along with microoptics, optical memories, and fiber-optic signal processing. Holographic optical elements for use with semiconductor lasers are also considered. Comprised of 34 chapters, this book begins with an introduction to some of the practical applications of integrated optical circuits, optoelectronic integrated circuits, and photonic integrated circuits. Subsequent chapters deal with quantum optoelectronics for optical processing; fiber-optic signal processing; holographic optical elements for use with semiconductor lasers; potential uses of photorefractives; and adaptive interferometry that makes use of photorefractive crystals. Water wave optics and diffraction are also examined, together with the essential journals of optics and the opposition effect in volume and surface scattering. The final chapter is devoted to optical computing, with emphasis on its processing functions and architecture. This monograph will be of interest to students, practitioners, and researchers in physics and electronics.

Optics and photonics technologies are ubiquitous: they are responsible for the displays on smart phones and computing devices, optical fiber that carries the information in the internet, advanced precision manufacturing, enhanced defense capabilities, and a plethora of medical diagnostics tools. The opportunities arising from optics and photonics offer the potential for even greater societal impact in the next few decades, including solar power generation and new efficient lighting that could transform the nation's energy landscape and new optical capabilities that will be essential to support the continued exponential growth of the Internet. As described in the National Research Council report Optics and Photonics: Essential Technologies for our Nation, it is critical for the United States to take advantage of these emerging optical technologies for creating new industries and generating job growth. The report assesses the current state of optical science and engineering in the United States and abroad-including market trends, workforce needs, and the impact of photonics on the national economy. It identifies the technological opportunities that have arisen from recent advances in, and applications of, optical science and engineering. The report also calls for improved management of U.S. public and private research and development resources, emphasizing the need for public policy that encourages adoption of a portfolio approach to investing in the wide and diverse opportunities now available within photonics. Optics and Photonics: Essential Technologies for our Nation is a useful overview not only for policymakers, such as decision-makers at relevant Federal agencies on the current state of optics and photonics research and applications but also for individuals seeking a broad understanding of the fields of optics and photonics in many arenas.

Wave Optics: Basic Concepts and Contemporary Trends combines classical optics with some of the latest developments in the field to provide readers with an appreciation and understanding of advanced research topics. Requiring only a basic knowledge of electromagnetic theory and mathematics, this book: Covers the fundamentals of wave optics, such as oscillations, scalar and vector waves, reflection and refraction, polarization, interference and diffraction, and rays and beams Focuses on concepts related to advances in negative materials and superresolution, reflectionless potentials, plasmonics, spin-orbit interaction, optical tweezers, Pendry lensing, and more Includes MATLAB® codes for specific research problems, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the computational practices as well as an opportunity to extend the research Drawing parallels with corresponding quantum problems whenever possible to broaden the horizon and outlook, Wave Optics: Basic Concepts and Contemporary Trends gives readers a taste of what is happening in modern optics today and shows why wave optics remains one of the most interesting and challenging areas of physics.

This text provides a critical summary of the latest developments in research and applications in optical science and technology, from basic quantum optics to optical engineering; and informed speculations on future developments in optics. The chapters are written by internationally recognized scientists and engineers. Each chapter contains a selective list of references and further reading. the authors have made special efforts to provide a readable and stimulating content, accessible both to optical specialists and to managers in broader areas of technology wishing to identify and understand key areas of progress. The text covers a wide range of topics on optical science and technology from quantum optics to laser beacon adaptive optics, including: fractal optics, localization, scattering, transforms, information processing, the new microscopies, fringe analysis, and the Hubble telescope.

Optical science and engineering affect almost every aspect of our lives. Millions of miles of optical fiber carry voice and data signals around the world. Lasers are used in surgery of the retina, kidneys, and heart. New high-efficiency light sources promise dramatic reductions in electricity consumption. Night-vision equipment and satellite surveillance are changing how wars are fought. Industry uses optical methods in everything from the production of computer chips to the construction of tunnels. Harnessing Light surveys this multitude of applications, as well as the status of the optics industry and of research and education in optics, and identifies actions that could enhance the field's contributions to society and facilitate its continued technical development.