January 2009 Issue
Feature Articles
Photorealistic Rendering: Making the Virtual into Reality
Studies of the optical properties of translucent materials help computer graphics wizards dream up ever more realistic scenes of fantastic movie characters and industrial design prototypes.
by Patricia DaukantasSilicon Photonic Crystals
Silicon photonic crystals present a tremendous opportunity for integrating optics with electronics, but the challenges are daunting. This article highlights recent approaches toward fabricating silicon photonic crystals that could lead to applications in integrated optical devices, sensing and other areas.
by Cefe LopezMechanically Tunable Photonic Crystals
The next frontier in photonic crystal research may be to achieve dynamic tunability that allows real-time, on-demand control of the photonic band structure. Recently, researchers have been working on a new strategy for achieving this goal—by applying mechanical force.
by Won Park and J.-B. LeeRecent Progress in Arrayed Electrowetting Optics
Electrowetting devices can now be formed in arrays covering thousands of square centimeters of glass. New research is pointing the way toward exciting applications for laser radar, 3D displays, adaptive camouflage, electronic paper, retroreflector communication and lab-on-a-chip.
by J. Heikenfeld, N. Smith, M. Dhindsa, K. Zhou, M. Kilaru, L. Hou, J. Zhang, E. Kreit and B. RajDepartments and Columns
Six Degrees of Optics
Can you connect these celebrities with optical pioneers in six steps?
Managing Trade-Offs to Optimize Spectrometry
You can achieve the best possible performance from your spectrometer by choosing the right optical bench, slit width and detector type for your application.
Breault Research Organization: Innovation through Adaptation
How one company expanded its engineering consultancy to become a full-service optical software provider and engineering firm.
As Planets Pop Into View, Scientists Seek More
Imaging technology has teased planets out of the enormous glare of their central stars, and astronomers are dreaming up sensitive detectors to find these elusive worlds.
Three OSA Historians
Over the years, several OSA members became history buffs who tracked the progress of the Society.
OSA Minorities and Women Share their Stories
A trio of OSA past presidents discussed their career experiences at the Frontiers in Optics conference.
Did You Know?
Plasmonics in Rennaissance glassblowing
![An artist’s rendering of a pulse of circularly polarized light hitting a 2D semiconductor. [Illustration by S. Alvey / University of Michigan]](https://opnmedia.blob.core.windows.net/$web/opn/media/images/articles/2025/0125/departments/202501-cover-web.jpg?ext=.jpg)
