Europe goes Photonics

A European Technology Platform (ETP) in Photonics has been launched as a result of previous consultations between high-level researchers and representatives of the European photonics industry. The platform, named 'Photonics 21', based on the vision document 'Photonics for the 21st Century', proposes a coordinated action plan at the European level to explore the future applications of light and to reap the expected benefits in terms of creating both jobs and wealth. Through a shared vision between industrial and public actors, it aims at creating the critical environment necessary for visionary and industrially relevant R&D in photonic components, systems and applications. Photonics21 will have the responsibility to determine a strategic research agenda, which will provide the basis for a common strategy to achieve a strong European leadership in Photonics.

More than 200 experts from 16 European member states and 120 companies celebrated the launching event of the European Technology Platform Photonics21 in Brussels, last 2nd of December 2005. They will actively contribute to a European Research Area for Photonics. ICFO participates in the working group Photonics Education, Training and Research Infrastructure.