History of optics and photonics

01-OPTICS

Optics?is the branch of Physics that studies the behaviour and properties of light, including its interactions with matter and the construction of instruments that use or?detect it.

Optics usually describes the behaviour of Visible, Ultra-Violet and Infra-Red light

Optical science has relevant and is pursued in many disciplines including Astronomy, Photography, Ophthalmology, Optometry etc.

02-PHOTONICS

Photonics?is a branch of optics?that involves the application of generation, detection, and manipulation of Light?in the form of PHOTONS through Emission, Transmission, Modulation, Signal Processing, switching,?Amplification and Sensing.

Most photonic applications are in the range of visible and near Infra-Red light.

The word 'Photonics' is derived from the Greek word "phos"?meaning light.

The Term PHOTONICS got traction after late 1960s?when a new research field (PHOTONICS) emerged whose goal is to deploy LIGHT?to perform the normal functions of electronics (viz: Telecom, Signal Processing etc.)

03-VELOCITY OF LIGHT

The speed of light in vacuum, commonly denoted c, is a universal physical constant that is important in many areas of physics.

The speed of light c is exactly equal to?299,792,458 metres per second.

Approximately 300,000 kilometres per second.186,000 miles per second.

60 x 60 x 24 x 365 x 299 792.458 = 9, 454, 254, 955,488.

In a year, Light travels about 9, 454, 254, 955,488 kilometer's

In Astronomical units this quantity (distance travelled by light in one year) is designated as Light Year.

In wrapping up this week's blog, we've taken an enlightening journey through the captivating history of photonics. From its inception in the late 1960s, when the term 'photonics' first gained traction, to its modern-day applications in telecommunications, signal processing, and beyond, we've witnessed the remarkable evolution of this groundbreaking field. The ingenious harnessing of light in the form of photons has revolutionized the way we interact with technology, paving the way for countless innovations and advancements.

As we delve deeper into the foundation of optics in the upcoming blogs, we will now shift our focus to explore the fundamental principles that underpin this captivating field. Join us next week as we embark on a voyage into the core concepts of optics, including the intriguing notions of refractive index, reflection, and refraction. These fundamental principles form the backbone of how light interacts with various materials, leading to the awe-inspiring phenomena that have fascinated scientists and thinkers for centuries.

We're excited to shed light on the principles that govern the behavior of light, and how they have laid the groundwork for the mesmerizing realm of optics. So stay tuned and get ready to unravel the mysteries of light in our upcoming blog. Until then, thank you for being part of our journey into the fascinating world of optics and photonics!