Optics & Photonics News - September 2008

Optics & Photonics News Magazine
September 2008 Issue

Feature Articles

A Brief History of Lighting

In the beginning, there was light. Everyone knows that part. But how did we learn to control and use it for ourselves? This history highlights several technologies that have been used to produce light: flame from wood, oil and gas; arc or glow from electricity; and the fluorescence of minerals.

by David DiLaura

Using Single-Particle Fluorescence to Detect Bioaerosols

Using single-particle fluorescence spectroscopy, scientists are conducting widespread, real-time monitoring of bioaerosols that will deepen their understanding of the effects of airborne particles on human health and climate change.

by Yong-Le Pan, Richard K. Chang, Steven C. Hill and Ron G. Pinnick

A 3D Coffee Break: Using coffee cups, cardboard and a few other basic tools, the author transforms his coffee break into an exciting optical experience. Now you can too.

Using coffee cups, cardboard and a few other basic tools, the author transforms his coffee break into an exciting optical experience. Now you can too.

by Keigo Iizuka

Display Research at Taiwan’s National Chiao Tung University

The Display Institute at National Chiao Tung University is helping Taiwan to remain a world leader in display science and technology.

by Han-Ping D. Shieh

Departments and Columns

Scatterings

Using Nano-Optics to Control the Phase of Light

Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate the phase of light using arrays of sub-wavelength slits, while still transmitting more light than expected.

Scatterings

Light-Scattering Method Measures Cell Nuclei

Researchers demonstrated a light-scattering technique called angle-resolved low-coherence interferometry (a/LCI) that provides a better method for measuring cell nuclei.

Scatterings

Did You Know?

Translucent concrete.

Optics Innovations

Developing a Strategy for Foreign Patent Filing

There is no such thing as an international patent. So how can intellectual property managers ensure that their inventions are protected in an increasingly global world?

Viewpoint

Making Policy a Priority

The 2008 Arthur H. Guenther Congressional Fellow reflects on her tenure in the office of Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and shares her insights into how scientists can help shape U.S. policy.

Optical Engineering

Scratch Forensics

Scratches on optical components are almost always detrimental. Whether formed during fabrication, cleaning or handling, scratches can cause increased scatter, impaired system performance, and, in the case of optics used in laser applications, laser damage. These “scratch forensic” techniques will help you to identify and prevent common sources of optical scratching.

Global Optics