Imaging/Detectors: Catching Photons

Photonics Spectra editors

When we try to capture and analyze light, we enter the realm of detectors and imaging technologies. Whether we hope to view images or count photons, we use devices that work by absorbing particles of light and turning them into information.
If we wanted to generalize about the areas in which detectors and imaging technology can improve, we could talk about collecting information more quickly and efficiently, at more wavelengths, at lower cost and/or with a more compact, user-friendly device or interface.
Customers are always asking for this type of technical advancement, insensitive to the physical limitations of detector materials, electronics and price/performance ratios. However, for those who succeed in achieving significant improvements, the payoff is significant.