International Day of Light

International Day of Light History

International Day of Light (IDL) aims to raise awareness about how light-based technologies can provide innovative solutions to global challenges in areas such as energy, education, agriculture, and health. By appreciating the science of light, embracing technological advancements, and focusing on the importance of sustainable development, IDL enables its participants to move towards a bright and enlightened future.

Established by UNESCO, the International Day of Light was first observed on 16th May 2018, marking the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser by physicist Theodore Maiman in 1960. This day emphasizes the cross-disciplinary nature of light science and its applications, encouraging collaboration between scientists, engineers, artists, and other professionals. Through a series of events, exhibitions, and initiatives, the International Day of Light brings together experts and enthusiasts from across the globe to engage in conversations and activities that demonstrate the significance and impact of light on our lives.

For International Day of Light in India, organizations host events that promote the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of light. These events serve as a platform for fostering partnerships between academia, industry, and decision-makers, helping to create an environment in which innovative, light-based technologies can thrive. International Day of Light is celebrated every year on the 16th of May.

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).
• India has a coastline of more than 7500 km and has been using lighthouses for navigation and maritime safety for centuries. Some of the oldest lighthouses in India, like the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse (built in 640 AD), are still in use today.
• Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, recognizes the importance of light in the form of sun rays and fire for maintaining health and wellbeing. It prescribes light therapy (heliotherapy) and chromotherapy (color therapy) for treating various disorders.

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

Top things to do in India 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.
• Make plans to Visit to planetariums, like the Nehru Planetarium in Mumbai or Delhi, can be insightful, particularly for students.
• Visit Illuminating India Exhibition: This is a major exhibition typically held in New Delhi highlighting the contribution of India in the field of science and technology, especially in the field of light and optics.