By Kristen Amoroso, Marketing Manager, IEEE Photonics Society
The IEEE Photonics Society is proud to celebrate its 60th Anniversary in 2025, celebrating six decades of fostering a global community of scientists, engineers, and innovators in the field of photonics. Since its founding in 1965, the Society has been dedicated to supporting, advocating for, and bringing together extraordinary individuals and groups whose groundbreaking work has driven advancements in light-based technologies that transform industries and improve lives.
This milestone celebrates the vibrant community that has propelled the field forward through collaborative efforts, shared knowledge, and visionary achievements. To mark this occasion, the Society will host a series of events throughout the year, including:
- CLEO 2025 Celebration: A special 60th Anniversary gathering during CLEO 2025, providing a platform for members to connect, reflect, and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the photonics community.
- Activities at IPC 2025: Join us in Singapore in November 2025 for commemorative events at the IEEE Photonics Conference (IPC), the Society’s flagship conference, where we will honor the community’s contributions and explore the future of photonics.
Six Decades of Innovation
These celebrations highlight how the IEEE Photonics Society has been at the forefront of technological advancements in photonics and light-based technologies that drive everything from high-speed internet to biomedical imaging. For six decades, the Society has been a key player in technological revolutions ranging from developing fiber optic communications and high-speed data transmission to the growth of silicon photonics and its impact on data centers and computing to breakthroughs in quantum photonics for autonomous vehicles.
Empowering the Future
The IEEE Photonics Society’s legacy is built upon the dedication, creativity, and leadership of the photonics community. As we celebrate 60 years, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting and advocating for this community, empowering them to continue shaping the future of photonics.
As IEEE Photonics Society celebrates this milestone, the community will continue to lead the way in emerging fields such as:
- AI-driven Photonics: Enhancing optical systems with machine learning and artificial intelligence.
- Sustainable Photonics: Developing energy-efficient photonic technologies for a greener future.
- Quantum Technologies: Advancing quantum cryptography, computing, and communication.
For a look back at how we got here, please visit IEEE Photonics Society’s 60th Anniversary Timeline.
