International Day of Light 16 May 2024

International Day of Light

Today is the International Day of Light! Held on May 16, the day marks the anniversary of invention of the laser by the American physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman in 1960. This pioneering creation epitomises how innovation can revolutionise society, impacting fields from communications to healthcare. The scope of the celebration extends beyond lasers, embracing light"s presence in every aspect of human existence, from art and culture to science and technology.

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Today in History

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16 May 2026Smith Rock State Park, Oregon, United States

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6 Feb 2024Lake Tahoe, USA
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30 Jul 2026Monument Valley, Navajo Nation, Arizona, United States
21 Apr 2026European hedgehog, France
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21 Jul 2025The summer opening of Buckingham Palace
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14 Jul 2024Burrowing owl chicks
28 Apr 2025Impala in Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
1 May 2026Brighton Festival
1 Jun 2026Palermo, Sicily, Italy
27 Sep 2024Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy
Sep 10, 2023Grandparents Day
22 Jan 2025Ad-Deir, Petra, Jordan