What to See and Do in San Diego at ICALEO® 2016

ICALEO® 2016 is right around the corner! In preparation for the event, we’ve compiled a quick guide of points of interest for laser professionals in San Diego, where the conference is held this year.

It’s time to discover the best in Electro-Optics & Photonics – and one of the most beautiful, engaging cities on the West Coast!


Find some time during your ICALEO 2016 trip to explore San Diego’s Harbor.

This year’s International Congress on Applications of Laser Electro-Optics and Photonics (ICALEO) takes place October 16–20, 2016 at the Sheraton® San Diego. ICALEO has established itself for over three decades as the conference where researchers and end-users meet to discuss recent advancements in laser applications and material processes. Bringing laser professionals from all over the world, ICALEO has a lot in store for attendees throughout the event. Click here for complete information, including Registration Opportunities and a Program Guide

When the sessions and seminars are over for the day, many ICALEO visitors may wish to explore the city and its culture. Who can blame them? With a gorgeous coastline, average October highs in the low 70s, and a rich history, there is plenty to see and do while in town for the conference.

Here’s how to explore like a pro after-hours at ICALEO San Diego:  

Museums of Interest

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is home to permanent and traveling exhibits focusing on “furthering the public understanding and enjoyment of science and technology.” Located in Balboa Park, Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is also home to the world’s first IMAX dome theater. Featuring state of the art projection systems, the theater also hosts planetarium shows hosted by the San Diego Astronomy Association. The center also hosts bimonthly workshops on 3D printing technology with San Diego State University. While the museum typically caters to a younger crowd, there is something here for everyone.

Located right around the corner from the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is the San Diego Air and Space Museum. Charting the history of flight from a 1700’s hot air balloon through the space age, the San Diego Air and Space Museum is a celebration of aviation and spaceflight advancements. Visitors can enjoy seeing both original and recreated air & spacecraft, as well as learn the history behind them. The museum is currently hosting the exhibition Da Vinci: The Ultimate Inventor. Showcasing the art, inventions, and machines developed by Leonardo Da Vinci with a focus on transportation, military, and mechanical designs, the exhibit is sure to enthrall any visitor.

Other Points of Interest

The  USS Midway Aircraft Carrier also serves as a museum featuring over 60 exhibits, including over 20 restored aircraft. The USS Midway was one of the US’s longest serving aircraft carriers, seeing over 200,000 sailors in its time. Self-guided tours are included with admission,as you make your way through the restored aircraft carrier, covering over 50 years of Navy history. USS Midway is home to multiple flight simulators and interactive exhibits, sure to entertain and educate. On average, guests spend over 3 hours on the carrier, so plan accordingly!

Activities by the Coast and Downtown

For those looking to take advantage of the warm weather and gorgeous coast, Pacific Beach is not too far away from Sheraton® San Diego. This beach town provides sun, surf, and sand by day and vibrant nightlife, after sunset. Catch waves early in the day and grab a drink at one of the many restaurants or bars, afterwards.

Registration for ICALEO®  is now open. With less than a month until the event, do not delay and miss your opportunity to learn, observe, and network at this premiere laser event. Information about the event can be found at https://www.lia.org/conferences/icaleo. Before attending, be sure to check out the top five things to see and do at ICALEO for 2016.

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The Laser Institute of America (LIA) is the international society for laser applications and safety. Our mission is to foster lasers, laser applications, and laser safety worldwide. Visit us at www.lia.org

The Top Five Things to See and Do at ICALEO 2016

These five engaging events will take place at this year’s ICALEO conference, held from October 16-20 at the Sheraton San Diego in San Diego, California.

This year’s International Congress on Applications of Lasers & Electro-Optics (ICALEO®) in San Diego, California is content-packed and better than ever. Held this year from October 16-20 at the Sheraton San Diego, laser professionals and curious tech connoisseurs from around the world will engage on the West Coast in an environment where professionals are able to participate and share in striking conversations and revelations about the latest and most popular developments within laser research.

If you attended the 34th annual ICALEO last year at the Sheraton Hotel in Atlanta, you can attest to more than 400 attendees from over 22 different countries who took part in various event segments and networking with like-minded scientists, engineers, and researchers, all while openly discussing the latest findings in laser research and developments within multifarious fields.

From keynote speaker Dr. Ellen Townes-Anderson’s research of laser tweezers, to more than 200 presentations and posters covering findings in photonics and laser technology, the 2016 ICALEO builds off of last year’s momentum, celebrates 35 years of laser innovation, and provides attendees with countless opportunities to network and learn about new laser technology in various fields and review the latest developments in laser research.

Here are the top five things to see and do at ICALEO 2016:

1. Plenary Sessions

The opening plenary session will spotlight laser applications beyond the everyday. Join us during this session as we visit Mars, self-driving cars, and revisit LIGO. The closing plenary session will bring you new ideas and processes to expand your horizons. It will feature presentations which cover surprising new developments in applications – from iPhones® to planes.

2. The 18th Annual Student Paper Award

Now in its 18th year, the ICALEO Student Paper Award provides a special opportunity for students working within laser development and research. Each year, students submit papers that are then reviewed by designated ICALEO conference chairs. Award winners of the 18th annual Student Paper Award will be announced during the ICALEO’s Closing Plenary Session. There will be a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner.

3. Laser Industry Vendor Reception & Tabletop Display

This ICALEO event enables attendees to meet other professionals who are making waves within the laser industry. Those attending the Laser Industry Vendor Reception are able to network with others while sharing current or future product ideas. The tabletop displays also allow attendees to participate in engaging conversations and learn about the latest products from some of the biggest names in the industry.

4. The LIA Awards Luncheon

The annual Laser Institute of America Awards Luncheon consists of a conversation-filled meal with colleagues, an awards presentation, and a speaker address. The Arthur L. Schawlow Award recognizes the career-long dedication of an individual and is held with high regard. It is presented each year to one hard-working and motivated individual who has majorly and positively impacted laser technology for scientists and consumers within a given field. Read more about the 2016 Schawlow Award Winner, Dr. Yongfeng Lu, here.

5. Networking Opportunities

Within the technology industry, networking has become one of the most appreciated keys to success. This year’s conference will offer countless opportunities for both aspiring and professional scientists and engineers to network with academics and R&D industrialists from all over the world.

Each year, ICALEO strives to provide both the latest and most recent information in laser technology to its attendees. Whether it be through a meet-and-greet, poster presentation, award ceremony, tabletop display, or networking social event, ICALEO 2016 offers countless educational and socially interactive opportunities for aspiring and veteran professionals alike.

For more information, and to register for ICALEO 2016, please click here.

Are you a current student and want to register for this event? For more information on discounted student memberships, please click here.