An Optical View

JUSTINE MURPHY, EDITOR, justine.murphy@photonics.com

‘New optical systems are … in need of robust solutions and improvements in hardware and software. There is still a lot of work to be done.’
— Mike Bechtold, OptiPro Systems

The optics and optics fabrication industries have seen plenty of exciting changes, and challenges, over the past 25 years. Evolving technologies and surfaces such as aspheres and freeform optics are expected to revolutionize the industry.

Beginning on page 50, we hear from experts in optics whose collective experience spans more than two decades. They weigh in on their past and current work with optics, and on what the future holds.

Also in this issue:

• Contributing Editor Marie Freebody delves into 3D printing and explains how the ability to customize complex geometries at low cost is reshaping the industry. Page 40;

• Tim Emmerson of Photonic Science Ltd. offers his expertise on how optimized imaging techniques and devices are driving multispectral applications. Page 46;

• Aircraft illumination by handheld lasers is a growing concern. Ken Barat of Laser Safety Solutions and Josh Halder of the National Institute of Standards of Technology tell us about new regulations aimed at combatting this problem. Page 56; and

• Contributing Editor Hank Hogan discusses new standards in positioning and motion systems, which could become critical for applications where accuracy and repeatability are essential. Page 60.