International Day of Light May 16, 2024

Today is the International Day of Light! Held on May 16, the day marks the anniversary of invention of the laser by the American physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman in 1960. This pioneering creation epitomises how innovation can revolutionise society, impacting fields from communications to healthcare. The scope of the celebration extends beyond lasers, embracing light"s presence in every aspect of human existence, from art and culture to science and technology.

© Feng Li/Getty Images News

palette

Today in History

Serene waters on a trembling earth
A place where Buddha attained enlightenment
May 16, 2025Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan

More Desktop Wallpapers:

Dec 4, 2025Indian Navy Day
Hiding in the woods
Bright blue lakes and rugged mountains
May 14, 2025Porto Flavia, Sulcis-Iglesiente, Sardinia, Italy
Feb 13, 2026Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge connecting Laos and Thailand
Jan 8, 2026Starling murmuration over the ruins of Brightons West Pier, England
Something to ‘bee’ thankful for..
Dec 3, 2023Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Where are these magnificent cliffs?
Dec 22, 2024Christmas tree at Crystal Pier, San Diego, California, United States
Natures boost fruit
Feb 10, 2026Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell, Ibiza, Spain
Jul 9, 2025Independence Day of the Argentine Republic
Jan 27, 2024Northern hawk owl
Regal Radiance
Nov 26, 2025Olive orchard in the Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Jun 29, 2024Tour de France 2024
Apr 26, 2024Mangrove islands near Kundapura, Karnataka
Jun 21, 2025International Day of Yoga
Jan 16, 2024Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
A natural spotlight
Let there be lights!
Cascade in the City of Waterfalls
Oct 12, 2025Village of Saranac Lake, New York, United States
Jun 2, 2024Hampi, Hospet, Karnataka
Mar 2, 2024Modica, Sicily, Italy
The harmony between land and sun
Here we go!
Sep 22, 2024Bada Bagh complex in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Aug 19, 2025Spotted eagle rays