The Man who Bent Light - Narinder Singh Kapany

Before the invention of fibre optics, communication relied heavily on copper wires and radio waves. These technologies, though revolutionary at the time, were limited in bandwidth and efficiency. With the advent of fibre optics, using thin glass strands to transmit data through light signals, communication was transformed. High-speed internet, advanced telecommunication, and even innovations in medical imaging owe their success to this technology.

But do you know who pioneered this groundbreaking invention? Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany, an Indian-American physicist, was the genius behind fibre optics. Here’s everything you need to know about him, from his early life to his revolutionary work.

Why Glass is Ideal for Fibre Optics

Glass plays a pivotal role in fibre optics due to its unique properties. It allows light signals to pass through with minimal loss or distortion. Early experiments with glass fibres sought to overcome issues like signal loss over long distances. Techniques such as coating fibres with thin metal layers were initially explored.

The true breakthrough came with the discovery of total internal reflection, a phenomenon where light rays bounce within the fibre's core without escaping. This principle keeps light signals confined, enabling efficient long-distance data transmission. It’s this phenomenon that ensures your internet remains fast and reliable.

Also Read about the Role of Internet in Education

Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany: The Father of Fibre Optics

Born on October 31, 1926, in Moga, Punjab, Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany had an insatiable curiosity about light and materials from a young age. After completing his schooling in Dehradun and graduating from Agra University, he pursued higher education in London. In 1955, he earned a Ph.D. in optics from the Imperial College of London under Harold Hopkins.

During his research, Kapany defied the then-prevailing belief that light couldn’t bend. He successfully demonstrated that optical signals could travel through glass fibres. His findings were published in Scientific American, where he coined the term fibre optics. Kapany also authored one of the first books in this field, cementing his legacy as a pioneer.

Beyond fibre optics, his contributions spanned diverse fields such as lasers, biomedical instrumentation, and solar energy. He held over 100 patents, showcasing his relentless pursuit of innovation.

Kapany’s Legacy in Industry and Academia

Kapany didn’t stop at research. In 1960, he founded Optics Technology, Inc., the first company to commercialize fibre optic products. Initially catering to military and industrial needs with coatings, lenses, and endoscopes, the company later expanded into international markets.

In 1977, Kapany established Kaptron, focusing on enhancing long-distance communication through fibre optics. The company supplied products to major telecom companies, including AT&T and Northern Telecom. Kapron was later sold to AMP Incorporated, where Kapany continued contributing to innovation for nearly a decade.

On the academic front, Kapany was an influential educator. He taught at Stanford University and the University of California (Berkeley and Santa Cruz), mentoring postgraduate students and guiding research in optics.

A Champion of Sikh Culture

Dr. Kapany was also a cultural ambassador. In 1967, he and his wife founded the Sikh Foundation, dedicated to preserving and promoting Sikh culture. From establishing a Sikh art collection at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco to supporting Sikh heritage projects globally, his contributions were immense.

Despite his achievements, Kapany’s name is often overlooked in mainstream education. Many schools, even prominent ones, don’t include him in their curricula. However, his legacy was recognized by Fortune magazine in 1999, naming him one of the “Seven Unsung Heroes of the 20th Century.” He also received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman from the Government of India in 2004.

Conclusion

Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany’s work laid the foundation for modern communication technologies. His innovation in fibre optics has revolutionized the way we connect, from the internet to advanced medical tools. As you browse the web or make a video call, take a moment to appreciate the man whose vision made it all possible.

Dr. Kapany wasn’t just a physicist but a pioneer, entrepreneur, educator, and cultural icon. His legacy serves as an inspiration for generations to come.