Merging the Worlds of Atoms and Bits: Augmented Virtual Environments

Interactive 3D visualization has found myriad applications in flight simulation, scientific visualization, training and education. This article reviews recent advancements in creating interactive augmented virtual environments that integrate digital information into the fabric of the physical world and enhance our sensory perceptions.

A Second Kind of Light

In addition to its role in the human visual system, light helps to regulate the timing of many biological functions, including the sleep-wake cycle and the production of key hormones. Scientists are just beginning to understand how light stimulates the circadian system, and its consequent effect on people’s health and well-being.

Welcome to the Wonderful World of 3D: How to Create the Parallax Effect (Part2)

In the July/August issue of Optics & Photonics News, we began this four-part series with an article on the history and principles of three-dimensional imaging. This second installment provides instructions for a series of experiments that will allow you to generate 3D images for yourself by creating the parallax effect.

Writing in the Optics Curriculum

Few science and engineering textbooks include a significant component on writing—which is surprising given its paramount importance in the careers of scientists. Some educators believe that students are supposed to learn writing outside their major. However, the Writing-Across-the-Curriculum (WAC) movement contends that this argument does a disservice to students.

Motivating Inventors to Submit ROIs

How can companies encourage engineers to participate constructively in the patent process?

A Legacy of Leadership: Celebrating 90 Years of OSA

Founded in 1916, OSA began with a small gathering of 30 scientists in Rochester, N.Y. Ninety years later, it has evolved to become the professional home to 14,000 optical physicists and engineers around the globe.

Artificial muscles may lead to better color displays; gels help tiny lenses respond to stimuli; the Air Force’s aerospace relay mirror system.

The Name Change Controversy

Last month’s history column described how OSA’s Committee on Society Objectives and Policy (SOAP) convinced the Board to recommend a name change for the Society.  is month, we describe how the membership learned of the board’s action—and how they reacted to it.

An Unlikely Advocate for Science Retires from Congress

Representative Sherwood Boehlert (R-N.Y.) didn’t come to Washington four decades ago with the goal of promoting science. Yet he’s retiring at the end of this year as one of science’s most important allies.

Book Reviews

Letters to the Editor

OSA Today

Spotlight on Kenneth Baldwin.

In Memory: Remembering Lorenzo Narducci, an expert in quantum optics, and Herbert Walther, a renowned scientist and educator.

President’s Message

Cloud Gate

The Optics Puzzler