Holograms: The Science of 3D Light Patterns

A hologram is a 3D image made by recording and reconstructing light wave patterns.
Unlike photos, holograms capture both the intensity and phase of light.
Lasers are used to create holograms because their light is coherent and stable.
A hologram looks different depending on the viewing angle, just like real objects.
The shimmering effect on credit cards and IDs comes from miniature holograms for security.
In entertainment, holograms can project life-sized 3D images of people and objects.
Medical imaging uses holography to map tissues in three dimensions without cutting.
Holographic data storage can pack far more information than traditional disks.
Holograms don’t need special glasses—the 3D effect comes naturally from the light.
Future holography may allow true 3D video calls and interactive displays.