The first phase of the launch will include an Enabled by Optics contest, which will promote optics as an enabling technology by featuring its lesser-known role in products widely used by the general public.

The contest will include two submission tracks – one for companies and another for both college and graduate level students. Companies from the optics and photonics industry will have the opportunity to submit a whitepaper that highlights how their technology impacts the public. Students can submit a video entry that demonstrates how optical technology plays a key part in making a commonly used product work. The winning entries will be promoted as part of the overall campaign, including in a consumer-focused video production.

“As professionals in the optics business, we know optics and photonics are critical parts of the products we use every day—from optical fibers at the heart of communication networks to laser surgery to cameras and high resolution displays in our smartphones,” said OSA Corporate Associates Committee Chair George Bayz of Synopsys, Inc. “The Enabled by Optics campaign aims to take this knowledge beyond our immediate community and help us shine a light on optics as an enabling technology. We’re looking forward to sharing the great work being done in the corporate optics community around the world.”

The annual contest will provide the foundation for a future online library accessible to policy makers, educators, consumers, and students. This resource will be used to further educate audiences about the far-reaching impact of optics on everyday life. To learn more and submit an entry, visit the Enabled by Optics contest page.

The Optical Society (OSA)