The Sagnac Effect
The story of an experiment that might have kept Einstein awake at night—but that paved the way for the dawn of optical gyroscopes and that could enable future gravitational-wave detectors.
01 April 2024Mapping Biology with Spatial Omics
A recent explosion of spatial profiling techniques—largely enabled by optics and photonics technologies—gives biologists an unprecedented view of single cells and tissues.
01 April 2024Structured Colors with Dielectric Nanoresonators
Nano-optic features such as nanopillars, subwavelength resonators and Mie voids are all emerging as new tools for creating realistic, durable and environmentally sound alternatives to traditional pigments.
01 April 2024Photonic Chip Generates Ultralow-Noise Microwave Signals
Tiny device performs optical frequency division using only a single laser.
27 March 2024Backyard Insect Offers Optical Inspiration
The unique particles used by leafhoppers as a protective coating could inform the next generation of materials.
26 March 2024Diffraction of Memory
A UV-erasable EPROM chip mounted in a black socket.
22 March 2024April 2024 Issue
LATEST NEWS
A Photoacoustic View of a Mouse Placenta
Sped-up imaging technique allows scientists to see the organ’s blood supply in vivo.
28 March 2024Photonic Chip Generates Ultralow-Noise Microwave Signals
Tiny device performs optical frequency division using only a single laser.
27 March 2024Backyard Insect Offers Optical Inspiration
The unique particles used by leafhoppers as a protective coating could inform the next generation of materials.
26 March 2024Toshiba, SoftBank Demonstrate Optical Wireless QKD
Firms say test of quantum communication across combined fiber and wireless links offers an advance toward “QKD secure networks in urban environments.”
24 March 2024Peering Into Solar Windows
A detailed study of luminescent solar concentrators suggests that, while they fall short of silicon solar cells in efficiency, they could still have an important role in sustainable energy.
23 March 2024ADVERTISEMENT
EDITOR'S PICKS
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory
A specially designed, ultrafast telescope and the world’s largest CCD camera could expand our understanding of the universe—if a fog of telecommunications satellites doesn’t spoil the view.
01 February 2024Strength in Cognitive Difference
An inclusive approach to neurodiversity in STEM can enable creative problem solving.
01 January 2024Optical Brain Imaging
The beginnings of optical brain imaging focused on overcoming light scattering and inventing effective techniques.
01 June 2023White Light from a Lamp
The objective lens of a digital projector is illuminated with white light from a lamp. The light propagating through the lenses separates into different colors.
01 June 2023ADVERTISEMENT
Diffraction of Memory
A UV-erasable EPROM chip mounted in a black socket.
22 March 2024A Live Look at the Reproductive System
At the upcoming Optica Biophotonics Congress, Irina Larina will talk about dynamic optical coherence tomography for in vivo imaging of the fallopian tubes.
01 April 2024Inspiring a Better Future
Fabian Ruf, the 2023 recipient of the Optica Foundation’s Chang Pivoting Fellowship, is passionate about transforming the world through education.
01 April 2024CAREERS
Inclusion in STEM Careers
Optica Ambassadors offer their reflections on building an inclusive, successful career and community.
08 March 2024Senior Member Insights: Junqing Zhao
A researcher learns to be persistent and follow his passion.
30 January 2024Senior Member Insights: Rosario Porras-Aguilar
An assistant professor talks about embracing small steps and the importance of self-care.
09 January 2024Senior Member Insights: Ulrich H. P. Fischer
A professor and CEO discusses the importance of finding the right path.
26 December 2023Senior Member Insights: Ferda Canbaz
A group leader talks about the importance of creating a work–life balance.
12 December 2023