The International Year of Light and Light-based technologies is a worldwide United Nations initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of Light and optical technologies in our daily lives and for our futures. It presents a unique opportunity to connect, inspire and educate people globally; to raise awareness of the way in which optical technologies promote sustainable living and offer solutions to the challenges in energy, education, agriculture, communications and health that affect us all.
As well as improving public and political understanding of the central role that Light plays in our world, the International Year of Light programmes mark several anniversaries in 2015 —from the first studies of optics 1000 years ago to discoveries in optical communications that power the Internet today. The calendar for the International Year of Light includes regional, national and international events.
In a few weeks' time, the 2015 e-Luminate Cambridge Festival opens, running from 11th to 15th February 2015. Its talented and multicultural e-team has been busily planning the programme of events so that people of all ages and backgrounds can gain an appreciation of the vital role of Light in science and culture, and as a medium through which to advance sustainable development.
The team looks forward to celebrating Light in a series of educational workshops, concerts, performances, and artistic displays and installations that will set Cambridge aglow. Alessandra Caggiano, Festival’s Director and Curator, says: “We are delighted to be marking the International Year of Light, whose vision and values we share and admire, with our third Festival in Cambridge. We aim to make this gem of a Festival our biggest, boldest and brightest yet!”
_______________________________________________________