Visible light has an inescapable presence all around us. We have generated light from prehistoric times using a variety of techniques. In modern times, we mainly produce illumination through electrical means. There are interesting historic anecdotes and fascinating scientific facts behind the various modern techniques for generating light. This book attempts to describe the stories and technologies related to many light sources — some common, some less so. Described in a more-or-less chronological fashion, the book looks at developments from Edison and Swan's invention of the incandescent lamp, through lasers, to LEDs, and more. While the main focus is on sources of visible light, a number of devices that produce invisible radiation are also covered for the sake of completeness. The book provides a holistic view of common and uncommon light sources from both historic and technical perspectives, to help readers place more modern developments in the context of what came before, and how. This book will be of benefit to all who are interested in optical sciences, especially in the generation, detection or use of electromagnetic radiation. Related Link(s) Press Release: A Celebration of Artificial Light Sources Summary: Light, whether visible or invisible, rules our modern existence on this planet. From essential illumination to transoceanic internet communications, light is indispensable for maintaining our contemporary lifestyle. This book covers how light became so essential in our lives and recounts the evolutionary history of manmade sources of light. With the underpinnings of science and technology, the book starts from tungsten filament bulbs and progresses through discharge lamps and lasers to state-of-the-art LEDs and more. Sample Chapter(s) Preface 1: The Nature and Properties of Light Contents: Preface About the Author The Nature and Properties of Light Incandescent Lamps Electric Discharge Lamps Plasma Light Sources Light-Emitting Diodes Lasers Laser-Based Lighting Systems Other Light Sources Index Readership: Undergraduate/graduate students and faculty of Physics, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Built Environment, Illumination engineers. Lighting designers, Optical and photonic scientists and engineers involved with product design and manufacturing in consumer and industrial sectors as well as in defense and semiconductor industries.