The History of the Laser

Since the invention of the first working laser in 1960, development of these devices has progressed at an unprecedented rate. This book traces the history of the laser from the first theoretical predictions of stimulated emission made in the 1920s through the experimental development of masers and lasers in the 50s and 60s, to the advanced applications of lasers in the present day. Along the way it tells the fascinating and at times controversial story of the people behind the discoveries. Written in a style accessible to the general public, it will be of interest to those working within the laser community and anyone with an interest in the history of science.