Harnessing Light: Capitalizing on Optical Science Trends and Challenges for Future Research
Abstract
Optics and photonics technology is central to modern life. It enables the manufacture and inspection of all the integrated circuits in every electronic device in use.8 It gives us displays on our smartphones and computing devices, optical fiber that carries the information in the Internet, advanced precision fabrication, and medical diagnostics tools. Technology offers the potential for even greater societal impact over the next few decades. Solar power generation and new efficient lighting could transform the energy landscape new optical capabilities will be essential to supporting the continued exponential growth of the Internet. Optics and photonics technology development and applications have substantially increased across the globe over the past several years. This is an encouraging trend for the world s economy and its people, while at the same time posing a challenge to U.S. leadership in these areas. As described in this study conducted by the National Research Council s (NRC s) Committee on Harnessing Light: Capitalizing on Optical Science Trends and Challenges for Future Research, it is critical that the United States to take advantage of these emerging optical technologies for creating new industries and generate job growth.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA581732
Entities
People
- Erik Svedberg
Organizations
- National Academy of Sciences