Dr. Charles Kao, Winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics

摘要

When the laser was invented in 1960, many people immediately recognized its potential impact on communications. STL in the United Kingdom assembled a research team to begin study of the use of carrier waves on optical frequencies. Charles Kao's work at STL focused on understanding exactly what was required to guide an electromagnetic wave at optical frequencies.rnEarly attempts used free space optics and directed the beam of light directlyrnthrough the atmosphere. However, since the atmosphere lacks a uniform density, the beam was too unstable for practical use. After experimenting with a variety of materials of transmission mediums, Dr. Kao and George Hockham narrowed the choices down to two: Plexiglas and normal glass.