Every year on May 16, the global community celebrates the International Day of Light—a UNESCO-led initiative that emphasizes the critical role light plays in science, culture, art, education, and sustainable development.
This date commemorates a major scientific breakthrough: the first successful operation of the laser in 1960, conducted by physicist Theodore Maiman. This discovery not only transformed the field of optics but also laid the foundation for countless advancements in medicine, communications, and technology.
Why May 16?
May 16 was chosen to mark Maiman’s historic laser operation, which opened the doors to photonics—a scientific field focused on using light to transmit, detect, and manipulate information. Today, photonics underpins innovations in everything from internet infrastructure to advanced medical diagnostics.
The International Day of Light was officially declared by UNESCO in 2018, following the success of the International Year of Light in 2015, further reinforcing the need to raise awareness about light science and its transformative potential.
2025 Theme: Light, Innovation, Society
While individual events across the world may interpret the theme slightly differently, the central message for 2025 remains:
Light, Innovation, Society
This theme highlights how light-based technologies can drive global progress—by improving healthcare, expanding access to quality education, enabling sustainable energy solutions, and helping bridge socioeconomic inequalities. These goals align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Why Light Matters
Light is far more than just illumination. It is:
- The foundation of life – enabling vision and driving photosynthesis
- A catalyst for discovery – powering advancements in physics, astronomy, medicine, and information technology
- A tool for sustainable progress – from solar power to fiber optics, light enables a smarter, more connected, and greener world
From the devices we use daily to critical tools in science and healthcare, light touches every aspect of modern life.
Global Celebrations
Around the world, institutions and communities mark the International Day of Light with:
- Science exhibitions and educational workshops
- Lectures and expert panels
- Art, photography, and light installations
- Community events advocating for sustainability and innovation
These activities not only inspire curiosity but also promote the importance of STEM education and global cooperation.
Lighting the Way Forward
The International Day of Light is a celebration of the past, present, and future of light-based science and technologies. It calls for continued investment in research, inclusive innovation, and widespread access to knowledge and tools that use light to shape a better world.
As we honor this day, let us reflect on the transformative power of light—and commit to using it as a force for education, equity, and sustainable progress.
🔗 Learn more from UNESCO’s official page: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/light