Harnessing Light: Optical Science and Engineering for the 21st Century

By National Research Council

Book Overview

Optical science and engineering affect almost every aspect of our lives. Millions of miles of optical fiber carry voice and data signals around the world. Lasers are used in surgery of the retina, kidneys, and heart. New high-efficiency light sources promise dramatic reductions in electricity consumption. Night-vision equipment and satellite surveillance are changing how wars are fought. Industry uses optical methods in everything from the production of computer chips to the construction of tunnels. Harnessing Light surveys this multitude of applications, as well as the status of the optics industry and of research and education in optics, and identifies actions that could enhance the field's contributions to society and facilitate its continued technical development.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0309059917
• ISBN13: 9780309059916
• Release Date: September 1998
• Publisher: National Academies Press
• Length: 357 Pages
• Weight: 1.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 7.0" x 9.9"

Customer Reviews

Excellent technology review of the promise of optics

This book provides an excellent review of the present and future application of optical science. I found it useful in providing reference points and applications for optics in the real world. Several policy directions should be taken note of by the US government. I am especially interested and doing research in the direction of LEDs for energy efficient white lighting.