Abstract

Applied optics comprises a body of knowledge on which modern technology rests. Nevertheless, there is an alarming shortage of new Ph.D.s trained in the area of applied optics/optical engineering/ optical instrumentation. Several factors contribute to this situation. Applied optics has a vast history and requires a range of skills necessary for its practice, but it is not recognized—as it should be—as a major field of study. The challenge and pleasure of building precise instruments is insufficiently recognized, much less extolled as the challenging pursuit that it is.

© 1987 Optical Society of America