The Optical Maser: More Than Just a Laser
Now, when we talk about the optical maser, most people immediately think "laser." But it's so much more than that! It represents a whole new way to generate and amplify light, and Bell Labs was right at the forefront.
Building upon the principles of the maser (which worked with microwaves), Bell Labs researchers developed techniques to achieve coherent light amplification. This opened the door to a wide range of applications, from communications to spectroscopy.
While the laser is the most well-known application, the underlying principles of the optical maser have had a lasting impact on photonics and optical technology. It wasn't just about creating a beam; it was about understanding and controlling light itself.