60 years of fiber optics: How a carrier of light you can’t see underlies much of the modern world

Fiber optics allow you to search the internet, text your friends and check your social media feeds. They also have geological, security and manufacturing applications.

By: John Ballato, Clemson University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: March 24, 2026

Words: 1,275

Last Updated: 4 months, 1 week ago

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By John Ballato, Clemson University

Imagine a world without internet, email, streaming services or social media. Imagine having to write letters or call everyone on a rotary dial phone to communicate. Imagine having to drive to a store to buy anything and everything. Unthinkable, right?

You can thank fiber optics for all these conveniences and more. And while you’re at it, wish the fiber a happy 60th birthday in 2026.

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