Scientists have been
searching for more
rapid pathogen
detection options
to help manage the
potential impact of
bioterrorist acts.
[ COVER STORY ]
20 Using Scattering to Identify Bacterial Pathogens
Researchers have developed an efficient optical method of identifying
pathogens that has potential applications in food and water safety, health
care and biodefense.
J.P. Robinson, B.P. Rajwa, E. Bae, V. Patsekin, A. Roumani, A.K. Bhunia,
J.E. Dietz, V.J. Davisson, M.M. Dundar, J. Thomas and E.D. Hirleman
28 Tilted Fiber Bragg Gratings as Multi-Sensors
The tilted fiber Bragg grating is a new kind of sensor that possesses all the
advantages of well-established Bragg grating technology in addition to being
able to excite cladding modes resonantly. This device opens up a multitude of
opportunities for single-point sensing in hard-to-reach spaces.
Jacques Albert
34 Recollections of the First Continuous Visible Laser
Alan White worked as a member of the technical staff at Bell Labs during its
heyday for industrial research. Here, he recalls his work with Dane Rigden to
develop the first continuous visible helium-neon laser in 1962—and how the
project evolved from covert weekend tinkering to the talk of the lab.
Alan D. White
COVER: Artist’s
interpretation of
elastic light scattering
geometry. Illustration
by Phil Saunders,
spacechannel.org.
40 Light in Flight: Optical Applications in Civilian Aviation
Optical technologies such as head-up displays, fiber sensors and quantum
dots will help build 21st century airplanes, connect pilots to crucial information
and ensure the structural health of aircraft.
