History of Science and Engineering Annotation << Back PASSIONS AROUND THE LASER (DEVOTED TO THE SEMICENTENIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE INJECTION LASER) Y.R. Nosov We have considered the history of the initial stage of formation of quantum electronics in the context of creating devices defining the principal marks of its development: maser (Ch. Towns, 1954), the first ruby laser (T. Maiman, 1960), semiconductor injection laser (R. Hall, 1962), heterolaser (Zh.I. Alferov, 1968). There is demonstrated relation of history of quantum electronics with the general history of that time, the role of the political-ideological opposition of the Soviet Union and the USA in acceleration of scientific and technical progress, and in priority problems of recognition of national achievements. The highest level of physical and technological perfection among lasers of all types is assigned to heterolaser, the only one that found mass production and application. The basic stages and features of the creative process of making principally new devices (masers and lasers) and the "technology" of the establishment of new knowledge are analyzed. The role of the scientific trends adjoining quantum electronics, such, as radio spectroscopy, synthesis of new semiconductor materials, nonlinear optics, holography, optoelectronics is shown. Brief characteristics of scientists who have made the greatest contribution to the origin of quantum electronics are given. Key words: quantum electronics; maser; laser; injection laser; heterolaser; optoelectronics; scientific community Contacts: E-mail: info@sapfir.ru Pp. 51-91.