Optics and Photonics News

Quantum Connectivity for Scale

As today’s quantum devices remain limited in range and size, entanglement-based optical networks are emerging as the key to building larger, more capable quantum systems.

Meet Optica’s 2026 Fellows

Congratulations to Optica's 2026 Fellows, who will be recognized throughout the year for scientific contributions, industry leadership and service.

Metasurfaces Could Enable Large-Scale Quantum Computing

Researchers show how the artificial materials can create extensive arrays of optical tweezers to trap neutral atoms.

Low-Cost Lenses Deliver Super-Resolution Images

Fabricating high-quality optics with a 3D printer offers new options for customized imaging solutions.

Dispersion in the Lab 

2025 Photo Contest Honorable Mention: White light passes through a prism, and its different components (colors) travel at different speeds, creating a spectrum.

Low-Cost Lenses Deliver Super-Resolution Images

Fabricating high-quality optics with a 3D printer offers new options for customized imaging solutions.

Metasurfaces Could Enable Large-Scale Quantum Computing

Researchers show how the artificial materials can create extensive arrays of optical tweezers to trap neutral atoms.

X-Ray Diffraction Technique Reveals Tiny Structures in Record Time

Researchers leverage the Swiss Light Source to study biological materials in unprecedented detail.

Photonic Camouflage, Like an Octopus

Researchers created a programmable polymer film that can change its surface texture and color on demand.

Vitrealab Raises US$11 Million to Bring Quantum Light Chips to AR Displays

The Austrian spin-off is betting on vertically integrated PICs to deliver more efficient light engines for AR and VR headsets.

Building the Optics-Professional Pipeline

Kipkemoi Elvis Samuel discusses his work in removing obstacles for students to get an optics education in Kenya.

My Congressional Fellowship: A Career Door-Opener

Eager to work toward solving big societal problems like climate change, Claire Cody left the lab for the world of scientific policy.

Journeys in Optics: Falko Schmidt

Falko Schmidt discusses his career trajectory, cofounding a startup and sustainability in the lab. 

Journeys in Optics: Winnie N. Ye

Winnie Ye talks about overcoming challenges she faced during her career and the importance of diversity, collaboration and mentorship in research.

AI-Generated Podcasts for Science Communication

Researchers found that artificial intelligence could help disseminate scientific studies in a clear, easy-to-understand format.