Read article: Machine learning without understanding improves femtosecond laser patterning Fabrication and process Research update Machine learning without understanding improves femtosecond laser patterning A trained neural network can learn what parameters specific femtosecond laser patterned surfaces require with no input about the physics
Read article: 2018 Physics Nobel honours three optics visionaries Lasers Podcasts 2018 Physics Nobel honours three optics visionaries Physics World journalists reflect on the 2018 Nobel Prize for Physics
Read article: Chaotic cavity boosts stability of high-power laser Lasers Research update Chaotic cavity boosts stability of high-power laser Discovery could also improve our understanding of weather patterns and turbulent fluids
Read article: Growing pains for 3D printing Business and innovation Interview Growing pains for 3D printing Peter Leibinger, chief technology officer at the industrial laser and machine-tool firm TRUMPF, discusses progress in additive manufacturing
Read article: Rogue magnetic fields put the brakes on laser-driven protons Lasers Research update Rogue magnetic fields put the brakes on laser-driven protons Upper limit on energy could be tough to beat
Read article: Continuous atom laser one step closer, say physicists Lasers Research update Continuous atom laser one step closer, say physicists New way of cooling atoms is unveiled
Read article: A continuous-wave maser is the first to run at room temperature Lasers Research update A continuous-wave maser is the first to run at room temperature Diamond-based device could lead to ultra-sensitive microwave amplifiers
Read article: Physicists create first ‘topological’ laser Lasers Research update Physicists create first ‘topological’ laser New laser can have cavity of any possible shape
Read article: Attosecond physicist honoured by Royal Society Personalities News Attosecond physicist honoured by Royal Society Flash Physics: need-to-know updates from the world of physics
Read article: Interacting lasers shed light on topological defects Lasers Research update Interacting lasers shed light on topological defects Flash Physics: need-to-know updates from the world of physics
Optics & Photonics Briefing This issue explores lasers and detectors, solar power, medical imaging and high-resolution displays