May 2016 Issue
Feature Articles
Space-Based Laser Communications Break Threshold
Recent and upcoming deployments of satellite laser communication systems are bringing Internet-like speeds for data transmission in space. The result could be a revolution in communication, both on Earth and across the solar system.
by Donald Cornwell
Photodynamic Therapy
A century-old biophotonic technique continues to develop, offering new, low-cost treatment possibilities for cancer, drug-resistant bacteria and more.
by Cristina Kurachi and Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
OSA Centennial Snapshots: The Decade When Everything Changed
With momentum from wartime R&D funds, the optics and photonics scene post-WWII was filled with transformative innovations in optics design, surveillance, fiber optics and, of course, the laser.
by Jeff HechtDepartments and Columns
Research and Industry News
Spike steers light through fiber; algorithms for quantum experiments; super-res brain imaging; rescuing memories with optogenetics; slimming down solar cells; putting a face on innovation; and stretchy light-emitting "octoskin."
Sensor Center Rises from Florida Ranchland
In a part of central Florida known for cattle ranching and Walt Disney World, a community is rallying behind the vision of becoming the center of the sensor-driven economy.
Q&A with CLEO: 2016 Plenary Speakers
The Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics (CLEO: 2016), which takes place 5 to 10 June, in San Jose, California, USA, will bring together an international audience to share groundbreaking research in laser technology. OPN had the opportunity to talk with three of this year’s plenary speakers: OSA Fellows Ferenc Krausz, Masataka Nakazawa and Jelena Vuckovic.
The 100-Year View of Photonics: Part 1
OSA’s Centennial offers an opportunity to take a long view of our market and its impact on society.
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Also in this Issue
The Need to Nominate
“Your friend’s honor should be as precious to you as your own.” —From Pirkei Avot [“Ethics of Our Fathers”]
