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.

International Trends in Optics provides a broad view of work in the field of optics throughout the world. Topics range from quantum optoelectronics for optical processing to optics in telecommunications, along with microoptics, optical memories, and fiber-optic signal processing. Holographic optical elements for use with semiconductor lasers are also considered. Comprised of 34 chapters, this book begins with an introduction to some of the practical applications of integrated optical circuits, optoelectronic integrated circuits, and photonic integrated circuits. Subsequent chapters deal with quantum optoelectronics for optical processing; fiber-optic signal processing; holographic optical elements for use with semiconductor lasers; potential uses of photorefractives; and adaptive interferometry that makes use of photorefractive crystals. Water wave optics and diffraction are also examined, together with the essential journals of optics and the opposition effect in volume and surface scattering. The final chapter is devoted to optical computing, with emphasis on its processing functions and architecture. This monograph will be of interest to students, practitioners, and researchers in physics and electronics.

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

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.

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.

ICO-PHOTONICS-DELPHI2009, was a scientific forum dedicated to Emerging Trends and Novel Materials in Photonics, organized by the Hellenic Optical Society under the auspices of the International Commission for Optics. The overwhelming success fulfilled its goals, bringing together optics and materials communities and establishing a common scientific vision at the interfaces of photonics and nanotechnologies. In this context, the volume presents advanced concepts and trends of novel photonic materials and functional photonic structures, from the advanced fabrication issues such laser induced organization and processing of functional devices, to quantum and ultrafast effects in nanostructures, to photonic devices for information and biophotonics technologies. It is directed to the professional in research and industry and will be of benefit to the graduate student working in the fields of photonics and nanotechnologies.

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 technologies are ubiquitous: they are responsible for the displays on smart phones and computing devices, optical fiber that carries the information in the internet, advanced precision manufacturing, enhanced defense capabilities, and a plethora of medical diagnostics tools. The opportunities arising from optics and photonics offer the potential for even greater societal impact in the next few decades, including solar power generation and new efficient lighting that could transform the nation's energy landscape and new optical capabilities that will be essential to support the continued exponential growth of the Internet. As described in the National Research Council report Optics and Photonics: Essential Technologies for our Nation, it is critical for the United States to take advantage of these emerging optical technologies for creating new industries and generating job growth. The report assesses the current state of optical science and engineering in the United States and abroad-including market trends, workforce needs, and the impact of photonics on the national economy. It identifies the technological opportunities that have arisen from recent advances in, and applications of, optical science and engineering. The report also calls for improved management of U.S. public and private research and development resources, emphasizing the need for public policy that encourages adoption of a portfolio approach to investing in the wide and diverse opportunities now available within photonics. Optics and Photonics: Essential Technologies for our Nation is a useful overview not only for policymakers, such as decision-makers at relevant Federal agencies on the current state of optics and photonics research and applications but also for individuals seeking a broad understanding of the fields of optics and photonics in many arenas.