Optics and Photonics News

Spatial Solitons in 2D Lattices

These authors describe their observation of two-color optical solitons in a 2D parametric photonic lattice with hexagonal symmetry in lithium niobate. Their results have enabled wavelength-controlled angular steering and transverse displacement of self-trapped filaments of light.

Big Pipes for Data Transfer: Report from OFC/NFOEC 2008

“Big pipes” is the most succinct way to describe the theme of this year’s Optical Fiber Conference/National Fiber Optic Engineers Conference (OFC/NFOEC) in San Diego. In today’s environment of social networking, online video and triple play, the telecommunications industry is gearing up for unprecedented broadband demand.

High-Performance Infrared Focal Plane Arrays for Space Applications

Infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) have come a long way since the first two-dimensional arrays were produced in the 1970s. Today, they provide nearly ideal photon-noise-limited performance that will enable much of the space science done over the next decade.

Introductory Science Experiments Using Silicone Optics

Silicone-replicated materials are easy to make and provide an inexpensive—and unbreakable—alternative to glass optics for classroom experiments.

The Eye in the Spiral: Animals with Pinhole Visual Systems

Most organisms have evolved precise, camera-like visual systems that allow them to easily find food and escape danger. But a few still rely on lensless eyes with crude pinhole optics. Why?

Santec Corp.: One Niche at a Time

Santec Corp. has found success as a photonics manufacturer by expanding into different niche markets.

Deemed Export Rules Make Research a Commodity

Language isn’t the only barrier that complicates collaboration among scientists from different countries. Many researchers also find themselves struggling to communicate with foreign colleagues while adhering to export regulations that restrict information exchanged within the United States.

Crystal Woodpiles for Ultrafast Communication

Tiny silicon photonic crystals that resemble layers of stacked logs could add ultrafast switching to on-chip optical modulators inside telecommunications equipment.

Profile in Optics: Leonard Thompson Troland

Leonard Troland was a polymath in vision and colorimetry whose life was tragically cut short.

Infrared Scattering Could Detect Alzheimer’s

A team of researchers has learned how to distinguish between brain tissue with and without Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by evaluating the near-infrared optical properties of the gray matter.

Did You Know?

Major anniversaries in telecommunications.

Book Reviews

In Memory

Remembering Pak Lim Chu, Yoginder Joshi and Louis F. Drummeter Jr.

Letters

2008 OSA Awards

OSA announces the winners of its 2008 awards and medals.

OSA Today

President’s Message