Current Trends In Optics

This text provides a critical summary of the latest developments in research and applications in optical science and technology, from basic quantum optics to optical engineering; and informed speculations on future developments in optics. The chapters are written by internationally recognized scientists and engineers. Each chapter contains a selective list of references and further reading. the authors have made special efforts to provide a readable and stimulating content, accessible both to optical specialists and to managers in broader areas of technology wishing to identify and understand key areas of progress. The text covers a wide range of topics on optical science and technology from quantum optics to laser beacon adaptive optics, including: fractal optics, localization, scattering, transforms, information processing, the new microscopies, fringe analysis, and the Hubble telescope.

Optics and photonics offer new and vibrant approaches to meeting the challenges of the 21st century concerning energy conservation, education, agriculture, personal health and the environment. One of the most effective ways to address these global problems is to provide updated and reliable content on light-based technologies. Optical thin films and meta-materials, lasers, optical communications, light-emitting diodes, solar cells, liquid crystal technology, nanophotonics and biophotonics all play vital roles in enriching our lives. We hope to raise readers’ awareness of how optical technologies are now promoting sustainable development and providing reliable solutions to basic human needs. Furthermore, in order to broaden new research fields, we hope to inspire them to pursue further cutting-edge breakthroughs on the basis of the accomplishments that have already been made.

Anna Consortini, The President of the International Commission for Optics (ICO), has accommodated a broad spectrum of optical science topics in Trends in Optics. This book, a compilation of research reviews written by outstanding figures in the field of optics, is aimed not only at specialists in the optical sciences, but also at scientists in other fields who might want to broaden their knowledge of optics. The latest developments in this rapidly progressing field are described, and new applications are detailed--including some previously undisclosed material on the U.S. 'Star Wars project. Authoritative and approachable, this volume should provide comprehensive insight into the ever-expanding optical sciences. Key Features * Edited by the president of the International Commission for Optics * Includes research reviews written by experts in the field * Compiles a wide range of topics in optical science

It is expected that advances in optics will revolutionise the 21st century as they began doing in the last quarter of the 20th. Such fields as communications, materials science, computing and medicine are leaping forward based on developments in optics. This series presents research on optics and lasers from researchers spanning the globe.

International Trends in Optics ...

This is the fifth in a series initiated in 1989 by the International Commission for Optics (ICO). These books, which are published every three years, highlight the advances in optics that are underway at the time of their publication. These are a collection of significant contributions from leading scientists and engineers throughout the world. It shows the diverse role optics play in modern society, with optics now taking its place along with mechanical, thermal, electrical and electronic options, in order to bring solutions. The world is coming to recognize the ubiquitous nature of optics and its primarily enabling role in our everyday world.

This book gives a broad and authoritative overview of research currently underway in the fields of optical science and engineering throughout the world. The contributions, which are written by internationally renowned scientists, are of particular interest to specialists and nonspecialists in the many disciplines covered. They are less formal than the standard technical reviews found in academic journals and this is what makes the book accessible to readers who are not specialists in optical science and engineering.