Transmitting photons for humanity: Scientific contributions of N. S. Kapany

Abstract

In this article, we recount the scientific contributions of Dr Narinder Singh Kapany and the consequent advancements in optical fiber-based technology. He is acknowledged as the “man who bent light” and the first to coin the term—‘fiber optics’. We will discuss the fiber endoscope, also known as the flexible fiberscope, which was designed by him. The properties of light on which Kapany’s work was based are elaborated. Different types of optical fibers with their distinct features and state-of-the-art developments in the field of fiber optics are also discussed.