On May 16, the PHOENIX project joins the global community in celebrating the International Day of Light – an annual UNESCO initiative that shines a light on the vital role this natural phenomenon plays across science, technology, culture, education, and sustainable development.
This day commemorates the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman – a breakthrough that has since transformed industries and opened new frontiers in medicine, communication, and energy.
At PHOENIX, the theme of this year’s celebration resonates deeply. Our research explores how nanophotonics and neuromorphic computing – technologies powered by light – can revolutionize key areas such as data processing, energy efficiency, and artificial intelligence. These innovations are paving the way for smarter, greener solutions aligned with the broader goals of sustainability and peace.
Light is not just a scientific tool – it is a symbol of knowledge, collaboration, and progress. From laser surgery to high-speed internet, and from solar energy to optical computing, light continues to be a driving force in shaping a better future.
As we celebrate this day, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing light’s full potential through innovation and cross-disciplinary research.
🎥 Watch the official International Day of Light 2025 video: https://youtu.be/acelisSU6Nw?feature=shared
🔗 Learn more about this global initiative: https://www.lightday.org/about
