International Day of Light May 16, 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.

© Feng Li/Getty Images News

palette

Today in History

Serene waters on a trembling earth
A place where Buddha attained enlightenment
May 16, 2025Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan

More Desktop Wallpapers:

Nov 23, 2025Fibonacci Day
Mar 24, 2025African elephants in Namibia
Sep 28, 2023Container ship near a port in Thailand
Sway with the Amazonian canopy
Jan 23, 2026Þorrablót, Icelandic midwinter festival
Sep 17, 2024Mid-Autumn Festival
Is it green with envy?
May 5, 2025Dunluce Castle, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Jun 1, 2025World Reef Awareness Day
A shiver of sharks on the hunt
Mar 14, 2024Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand
Starry, starry night
Family on parade
Jun 4, 2025Cala Luna beach, Sardinia, Italy
Nov 22, 2025Leshan Giant Buddha, Sichuan, China
Sep 20, 2024Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, USA
Jun 19, 2025Masai giraffe mother grooming her calf in the Serengeti, Tanzania
A very public display of affection
Underwater underground
Feb 21, 2025Champaka Sarasi, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India
Dont just fly, darling. Soar!
Feb 14, 2025Happy Valentines Day!
Nov 21, 2025Small island near Ezhikkara, Kerala
Jul 15, 2025Muchalinda Sarovar, Bodh Gaya, Bihar
May 12, 2025An iris garden in Tokyo, Japan
A rainbow that’s worth the rainfall
Feb 20, 2024Kinder Scout, Peak District National Park, UK
Aug 17, 2024Alfanzina lighthouse, Algarve, Portugal
Aug 3, 2024Three Natural Bridges, Wulong National Park, China
Sep 21, 2023International Day of Peace