The history and future of non-linear optics

DATE: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 26, 2011.

EVENT: A symposium celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the discovery that gave rise to the field of nonlinear optics. In 1961 in the Randall Laboratory, a team of physicists and a college sophomore observed optical harmonics for the first time. By sending a red laser beam through fused quartz, they were able to coax it into a blue output beam. At twice the frequency, blue light is the second harmonic of red light. In the 50 years since this discovery of “second harmonic generation,” the field of nonlinear optics has unlocked the electromagnetic spectrum to offer laser frequencies and intensities across the rainbow and beyond, enabling Nobel-winning science and world-changing engineering.

It has applications today and in the future in fields as varied as fiber optics, biology, chemistry, astronomy, environmental studies, imaging, optical communication and quantum computing.

Speakers include Nobel prize winners Nicolaas Bloembergen and Theodor Hänsch. Hänsch will deliver the Ta-You Wu Lecture on Laser Spectroscopy of Hydrogen at 4:15 p.m. A detailed schedule is at nlosymposium.physics.lsa.umich.edu/schedule.html.

PLACE: The Michigan League Ballroom on the second floor of the Michigan League at
911 N. University in Ann Arbor.

Provided by University of Michigan