field of photonicS: why light matters?

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On the most fundamental level through photosynthesis, light is necessary to the existence of life itself, and the many applications of light have revolutionized society through medicine, communications, entertainment and culture. Light and photonics are poised to become key enabling technologies of the future. Photonics is the science and technology of generating, controlling, and detecting photons, which are particles of light. The 21st century will depend as much on photonics as the 20th century depended on electronics.

I of IV  Optical computing

Optical computing is a concept that uses photons for digital information processing while conventional computers uses electrons.
Weizmann Institute have demonstrated a two-input/two-output router that works entirely with single photons – no electronics required. 
Everything is photonic: the device has two optical inputs, two optical outputs, and can route single photons from either input to either output based solely on a control provided by another single photon.

II. College of Optical Sciences

The University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences is one of the premier educational and research institutions in optics and photonics worldwide.

They focus on educating outstanding students with a broad foundation in all areas of optics and on providing practical experience and highly competitive technical skills. 

Their research program spans from optical engineering to fundamental optical physics, from photonics to image science, and provides unique opportunities to pursue cutting-edge applications of optics in real systems.

III: FREE, photonic kits

www.eyest.eu

Excite Youth for Engineering, Science and Technology, is a Belgium based non-profit organization with the sole mission of raising the interest of youth in Engineering, Science and Technology through the creation and dissemination of educational programs mainly to schools.

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IV RESOURCES

The Canon Science Lab
This site is full of answers to interesting question about light such as why the sky is blue and videos and explanations about photonics and its applications, from LEDs to camera lens.
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LaserFest
The invention of the laser was a momentous discovery of the 20th century. Lasers are used for research as well as in everyday applications. Find out how they work!
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Virtual Laser Exhibit
To learn more about the impact of the discovery of lasers, visit the virtual exhibit that was created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the laser in 2010.
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Kids & Optics
Looking for optics and photonics activities to do at home? Visit this page to find ideas of simple experiments to perform with easy to find material as well as information to understand and explain the basis of light and photonics.
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