When was the first ruby laser created?

The first ruby laser was created in 1960, marking a significant milestone in the development of laser technology. This laser was developed by Theodore Maiman at Hughes Research Laboratories and utilized a ruby crystal as its gain medium, which emitted light when stimulated by intense flashlamps. Maiman's achievement laid the groundwork for further advancements in laser research and applications, as it demonstrated the practical feasibility of generating coherent light through stimulated emission.

The year 1960 stands out in the history of lasers because it represents the moment when lasers transitioned from theoretical concepts to tangible, working devices. Following the invention of the ruby laser, numerous other laser types were developed, leading to a vast range of applications across different fields such as medicine, telecommunications, and manufacturing.