February 2018 Issue
Feature Articles
Satellite-Based QKD
A global network of spacecraft and ground stations, distributing secret encryption keys by means of quantum technology, could meet emerging and long-term threats to data security.
by Imran Khan, Bettina Heim, Andreas Neuzner and Christoph Marquardt
Virtual Photons: From the Lamb Shift to Black Holes
While virtual processes are a well-known feature of quantum electrodynamics, the role of virtual photons—in phenomena ranging from the microscopic to the cosmic—is less generally appreciated.
by Marlan Scully, Alexei Sokolov and Anatoly Svidzinsky
Meet OSA’s 2018 Fellows
The record 101 members of the 2018 class of OSA Fellow Members will be recognized at OSA conferences throughout the year for scientific, engineering and technological contributions, as well as industry leadership and service to OSA and the global optics community.
by Meredith Smith, Kari Apter and Jeanette GassDepartments and Columns
Research and Industry News
Quantum Technology: Funding the Future
McKinsey & Co. estimates that combined worldwide spending on nonclassified quantum-technology research amounted to around some €1.5 billion in 2015. Here’s how those numbers were distributed globally—and some highlights of government quantum initiatives since then.
Toward a National Quantum Initiative
A quantum scientist makes the case for a U.S. effort bringing academia, industry and government together to advance quantum technology.
Small Changes
California-based Luminit LLC is working to shrink the size, weight and volume of the next generation of optical systems.
Helping Startups Grow
OPN talks with the head of a new optics and photonics business accelerator about the project.
