About Lasers
About Lasers
Daily activities, from scanning items at a grocery store checkout to playing your favorite CD, require the very precise light lasers provide. Explore how laser light differs from regular light, browse a timeline of laser science milestones, and learn about the Nobel Prize winning contributions of the many scientists that made the laser possible.
Lasers in Science and Industry
A report to OSTP on the contribution of lasers to American jobs and the American economy
Prepared by Dr. Thomas M. Baer and Dr. Fred Schlachter
Laser Timeline
View the Laser History Timeline
Laser Innovations
Laser Interferometry
Lasers can be used to measure distance to exceedingly high precision, using the principle of interference in devices called interferometers. Scientists are now using laser interferometers to probe the fundamental nature of gravity.
Videos
LaserFest Kick-off Event
February 12, 2010
National Museum of American History
Laser History
Over fifty years ago, the invention of the laser revolutionized the way we live. We hope to recognize and honor the scientists and engineers who contributed to laser science, and highlight the important technological applications that have been made possible by their research.
How Lasers Work
The word "LASER" is actually an acronym, standing for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation". Find out how we are able to take advantage of quantum mechanics to make a laser:
The First Ruby Laser | Extreme Lasers | Videos about Lasers
Laser Pioneers
Founders of the Early Laser | Nobel Laureates
