Optics in South America: introduction

South American optics research has seen remarkable growth over the past 50 years, with significant contributions in areas such as quantum optics, holography, spectroscopy, nonlinear optics, statistical optics, nanophotonics and integrated photonics. The research has driven economic development in sectors like telecom, biophotonics, biometrics, and agri-sensing. This joint feature issue between JOSA A and JOSA B exhibits cutting-edge optics research fromthe region, fostering a sense of community and promoting collaboration among researchers. (c) 2023 Optica Publishing Group

Automated summary

Optical research in South America has experienced remarkable growth over the past 50 years, making significant contributions in areas such as quantum optics, holography, spectroscopy, nonlinear optics, statistical optics, nanophotonics, and integrated photonics. This research has driven economic development in sectors like telecom, biophotonics, biometrics, and agri-sensing. The joint feature issue between JOSA A and JOSA B showcases cutting-edge optics research from the region, fostering a sense of community and promoting collaboration among researchers.