Oscar Herrera, group lead for the Lasers & Metrology Process Engineering Group at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s NIF and Photon Science, has been elected a senior member of SPIE, recognizing his sustained contributions to optics and photonics. Herrera is among 79 new SPIE senior members honored this year for technical achievement and community service; his work ensures the National Ignition Facility’s optics meet reliability requirements.
He also validated results from a 2022 R&D 100 Award-winning project that developed a technique for 3D-printing optical-quality glass. “Being named an SPIE senior member is especially meaningful because it recognizes sustained work over time,” Herrera said.
Herrera’s Metrology Validates 3D-Printed Optical Glass Development
His validation work involved precise measurements of the material’s optical properties, confirming its suitability for demanding applications beyond conventional manufacturing limitations. The Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project tackled a long-standing challenge in optics: creating intricate glass shapes without the limitations of traditional grinding and polishing.
Herrera’s contribution was not simply confirming the process worked, but establishing the reliability and repeatability of the 3D-printed glass, essential for components operating under extreme conditions. He strengthened measurement processes for large NIF optics and improved process controls and analysis tools used to document optical performance, ensuring the printed components could withstand the rigors of high-power laser environments.
Beyond validating the 3D-printing technique, Herrera’s work at LLNL centers on laser and metrology support for NIF optics, a role demanding exacting standards to maintain the facility’s operational reliability. He joined the Laboratory in 2018 and has focused on ensuring components meet requirements for consistent performance. This commitment extends to fostering the next generation of optical scientists; Herrera actively mentors students and provides practical career guidance, encouraging further education in the field.
He explained, referencing his recent election as a SPIE senior member alongside 79 others, that sustained contributions to both technical advancement and community service are integral to professional growth. His outreach efforts emphasize providing practical career advice and expanding access to applied optics, demonstrating a dedication to building a robust and inclusive future for the field.
Being named an SPIE senior member is especially meaningful because it recognizes sustained work over time, both technical contributions and service to the optics and photonics community.
Oscar Herrera, Group Lead for the Lasers & Metrology Process Engineering Group within the NIF&PS Optics, Materials Science, and Technology program
Laurence’s Quantum Imaging Studies NIF Optics Damage
Ted Laurence’s recent investigations at the National Ignition Facility center on understanding how fused-silica optics fail under intense laser conditions, building on a career that initially focused on single-molecule fluorescence biophysics and protein interactions. His work uses time-resolved photoluminescence to pinpoint vulnerabilities in NIF optics, specifically demonstrating that surface fractures dramatically increase susceptibility to laser-induced damage. This insight directly informed improvements to optics processing, enabling higher-energy operations at the ignition facility. Laurence’s research has expanded beyond traditional laser and materials science to incorporate quantum phenomena, including the application of entangled photons for advanced imaging techniques.
He is currently employing these entangled photons for fluorescence-lifetime measurements, quantum ghost imaging, and three-dimensional microscopy, pushing the boundaries of optical measurement. “Throughout my scientific career, the focus of my research has been on the use of optical science and technology to understand materials science and biology,” Laurence said.
The application of quantum ghost imaging, in particular, offers a non-traditional approach to visualizing damage mechanisms without directly illuminating the sample with potentially destructive light. This technique, combined with his earlier work on fracture susceptibility, provides a comprehensive understanding of how NIF optics degrade, informing strategies for both preventative maintenance and the development of more resilient materials.
Sam Schrauth’s recognition reflects a career focused on modeling the performance of large-scale laser systems, and he has developed expertise in flashlamp pumping and amplifier modeling, contributing to the design of future laser systems and potential NIF upgrades.
The collaborative spirit within the NIF&PS program is a recurring theme among these honorees. “One of the things I value most about this field is how collaborative it is,” said Herrera. “We have an enormous opportunity now to help develop the technologies, supply chains, and markets to advance fusion energy and HED science—and it is an exciting time as the optics and photonics community pulls together to meet the moment.”
We have an enormous opportunity now to help develop the technologies, supply chains, and markets to advance fusion energy and HED science – and it is exciting time as the optics and photonics community pulls together to meet the moment.
Source: https://lasers.llnl.gov/news/llnl-researchers-recognized-senior-members-optics-photonics-societies
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