HRL Laser Site Receives More Recognition

HRL Laboratories was recognized as an IEEE Milestone in Electrical Engineering and Computing signifying where the first working laser was demonstrated more than 50 years ago.

In May, the site was designated a Physics Historical Site by the American Physical Society. (See: HRL Designated Historical Laser Site)

HRL will receive a plaque from IEEE marking the historic event: “On this site in May 1960 Theodore Maiman built and operated the first laser. A number of teams around the world were trying to construct this theoretically anticipated device from different materials. Maiman’s was based on a ruby rod optically pumped by a flash lamp. The laser was a transformative technology in the 20th century and continues to enjoy wide application in many fields of human endeavor.”

Since its first demonstration, more than 55,000 patents involving the laser have been granted in the US, according to IEEE.

The IEEE Milestones program was established in 1983 to recognize significant technical achievements in IEEE fields of interest at locations around the world. IEEE dedicated the 100th Milestone in October 2010.

HRL Laboratories is a corporate R&D laboratory owned by The Boeing Company and General Motors specializing in research into sensors and materials, information and systems sciences, applied electromagnetics, and microelectronics.

For more information, visit: www.hrl.com