Organization: Optica Foundation optics (äp-tiks) noun. The branch of physics that studies the behavior and property of light, including its interactions with matter and the construction of instruments that use or detect it. photonics (f?-tä-niks) noun. The science and technology of generating and controlling light. Photonics underpins the technologies of daily life, from smartphones to laptops, medical instruments, light technology and even the Internet. The 21st century will depend as much on photonics as the 20th century depended on electronics. Are you passionate about shaping the future of science and technology? Join us at the Optica Foundation, where we are on a mission to