Reviews & Analysis

Since the inception of the idea of temporal solitons in optical fibres, published in 1973, the concept of optical solitons has revolutionized the fundamental science of optics and photonics technologies. This Perspective gives an outlook on the future of solitons in ultrafast lasers, frequency combs, biomedical applications, telecommunications and signal processing, as well as the emerging new science of solitons.

The authors discuss the opportunities and challenges facing underwater photovoltaics.

Progress in the field of quantum-photonics applications of metasurfaces is reviewed. Cutting-edge research, including the development of optical chips supporting high-dimensional quantum entanglement and advanced quantum tomography, is summarized.

The status and prospects for using light-emitting diodes as a means of electroluminescent cooling are discussed.

Graphene-on-bulk semiconductors may enable new directions for ultrathin optoelectronics and photovoltaics.

Recent achievements and future opportunities for light as a propulsion scheme for space vehicles is discussed.

The parameters and issues that affect the accuracy of fluorescence molecular imaging are discussed and a means for ensuring reliable reproduction of the fluorescence signals in biological tissue is proposed.