logo

Video encyclopedia

16/05/1960 Laser operated for the first time

4:08

History of laser technology

40:14

Celebrating 50 Years of the Laser

3:17

How the first laser was made

4:51

In this video from 1983, Ted Maiman recalls the birth of the laser in his lab at Hughes.

American physicist Ted Maiman successfully tested his laser. Its core was made of synthetic ruby which other scientists seeking to make a laser felt would not work. Maiman patented the laser. However, Columbia University graduate student Gordon Gould had simultaneously completedhis own laser design, and it is not clear who was first.
    • Essentials 

    • Other American inventions 

    • Other Russian inventions 

    • Other Soviet inventions 

    • Also related