MIT Creates Fiber Webs That See

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press Release, 17 Jul 2006 In a radical departure from conventional lens-based optics, MIT scientists have developed a sophisticated optical system made of mesh-like webs of light-detecting fibers. The fiber constructs, which have a number of advantages over their lens-based predecessors, are currently capable of measuring the direction, intensity and phase of light without the lenses, filters or detector arrays that are the classic elements of optical systems such as eyes or cameras. Ultimately the researchers expect the new system will be capable of much more, with potential applications ranging from improved space telescopes to clothing that provides situational awareness to soldiers or even the visually impaired. Read more