Theodore Maiman

Inventor

Birthday July 11, 1927

Birth Sign Cancer

Birthplace Los Angeles, CA

DEATH DATE May 5, 2007 (79)

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About

Inventor of the first functional laser which launched an entire new industry and earned the Nobel Prize nomination twice. He wrote about his experiences developing the world's first laser in his book, The Laser Odyssey.

Before Fame

He did his graduate work in electrical engineer at Stanford University, working with microwaves and helium atoms.

Trivia

Inspired by a paper on the construction of a theoretical laser, he developed one for the Hughes Aircraft Company in 1960.

Family Life

He grew up in Los Angeles, California.

Associated With

Gordon Gould was another key figure in the invention of the laser, although he wasn't recognized for his contributions at first.