Optics and Photonics News

Supply-Chain Upheaval: Season 2

In the wake of shortages caused by the pandemic, a new round of supply-chain disruptions has emerged due to AI and geopolitics.

Miniaturized Laser System Enables Record Flux in Microgravity

Scientists produce atomic quantum gas mixtures with unprecedented particle flux to test fundamental physics in space. 

Lidar Scans Urban Trees

Researchers used 3D models they built to create an algorithm for optimal pruning.

Correlated Electrons Boost X-Ray Harmonics

Intense ultraviolet laser yields photon energies beyond the previous limit.

Aurora Australis

The aurora australis arcs over Earth during an active solar event in this photo from the International Space Station as it orbited above the Indian Ocean.

Correlated Electrons Boost X-Ray Harmonics

Intense ultraviolet laser yields photon energies beyond the previous limit.

Miniaturized Laser System Enables Record Flux in Microgravity

Scientists produce atomic quantum gas mixtures with unprecedented particle flux to test fundamental physics in space. 

Lidar Scans Urban Trees

Researchers used 3D models they built to create an algorithm for optimal pruning.

Lasers Promise Power Solution for Flying Drones

Prototype system enables a model drone to be powered remotely using a green laser.

A Photonic Crystal in Time

Metamaterial-based device working at terahertz frequencies could be turned into a new type of laser.

Do Biographies of Scientists Inspire Children?

Children’s books about the careers of famous scientists may contain inadvertently discouraging messaging.

A Mental Health Crisis in Academia?

New meta-analysis suggests that one in three early-career researchers experience elevated psychological distress.

Journeys in Optics: Andrea Pacheco

Andrea Pacheco talks about why she became a physicist, the importance of collaboration, and balancing her academic career with family life.

Journeys in Optics: Václav Hanus

Václav Hanus discusses the twists and turns in the path he took to a career in ultrafast lasers—and his work on science-themed music.

Parenthood and the Academic Career Ladder

A new study takes a closer look at the differing effects of the “parenthood penalty” on mothers and fathers in academia.