Optical Imaging: Applications in Biology and Engineering

(2 Credits)

Optics and imaging technology play very important roles in science and engineering. For example, the images collected by the Hubble Telescope, since year 1990, have revolutionized modern astronomy. In biology, the use of two-photon excitation microscopy has significantly advanced neuroscience, as we are now able to track the intracellular development at sub-micron resolutions. A typical course in optics offered at any university often focuses on the fundamental aspects of light but much less on its vast applications in the real world. This short course will exemplify the power and usefulness of optics in current sciences and technology, especially in biology and engineering. Prerequisite: General Physics II or Honors Physics II. Fulfillment: General elective.