Photonics is a research field where operations are done with light, formally this felt in the domain of electronics. Photonics began as a research field in 1960 with the invention of the laser. Quickly other inventions with light followed like optical fibers and laser diodes, this made it possible for the telecommunication revolution in the 20th century.

Until the year 2000, photonics largely focused on light in telecommunications. The research field is much broader than only telecommunication. Today the research field also includes medical diagnostics, biological and chemical sensing and optical computing. Due to recent developments in photonics the research field keeps expanding.

The goal of this symposium is to give participants a broader insight in current research. Especially to give an impression of the future of photonics. Because of the wide range of applications for photonics and its importance in the current and future society, it is a key enabling technology.