International Day of Light

International Day of Light History

International Day of Light aims to raise awareness about the critical role of light-based technologies, the importance of light in the fields of science, culture, and society, and how it contributes to a sustainable future. This global initiative focuses on illuminating the considerable potential of using light technology for the betterment of humankind and in tackling challenges such as climate change, health, and energy consumption. The event goes beyond mere celebration - it seeks to inspire reflection, dialogue, and collaboration around the countless applications of light in our world.

Launched in 2018 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), International Day of Light builds on the success of the International Year of Light, held in 2015. It was during this year that more than 13,000 events spread across 147 countries showcased the numerous practical applications and incredible potential of light-based technologies. The International Year of Light's impact extended beyond its timeframe, as initiatives such as the 1001 Inventions & the World of Ibn Al-Haytham campaign, designed to promote intercultural dialogue, continued to gain global attention.

In Canada, International Day of Light is celebrated by museums, and various organizations who host an array of events, workshops, and exhibits to mark the day. Fostering knowledge, engagement, and collaboration, the celebrations highlight the many ways in which light technology touches our lives - from energy efficiency and telecommunications to agriculture and medicine. At these events, participants can expect to learn about the growing opportunities for innovation and development, powered by light technologies. International Day of Light is celebrated annually on May 16th, marking the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman.

International Day of Light facts

• Light travels in a straight line. If objects are in its path, they will cause the light to bend or refract.
• The speed of light is 186,282 miles or 299,792 km per second.
• Radiant light can be produced through various processes, such as incandescence (light resulting from heat), fluorescence (light emitted by a substance when it absorbs light or other electromagnetic radiation), chemiluminescence (light from a chemical reaction), and bioluminescence (light produced by a living organism).
• In northern Canada, daylight hours can range from over 24 hours of continuous daylight in the summer to less than six hours in the winter, due to its high latitude and the Earth's axial tilt.
• Canada was one of the first countries to phase out the use of inefficient incandescent light bulbs in favor of energy-saving alternatives such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Light

Top things to do in Canada for International Day of Light

• Discover events near you. UNESCO hosts activities and events for people of all ages and backgrounds. They participate globally so that everyone around the world can gain an appreciation for the central role of light in science and culture.
• Stay informed about upcoming news. UNESCO periodically releases news about scientific progress involving light technology.
• Visit Light Festivals: For instance, the Toronto Light Festival or the Lumina Light Festival in Borealis that feature light exhibitions, interactive installations, and plays of light with a different theme every year.
• Join in on Discussions and Webinars: Universities, research institutions or organization may host panel discussions or webinars featuring experts in the field of light science and technologies.