Labsphere - the world's premier source for ground-based calibration systems for large earth observing satellites, imaging systems and remote sensing optical calibration solutions has been at the forefront, supporting optical research scientist in India. Hence, a presence at The International Conference on Optics and Opto-Electronics (ICOL as it is popularly called) was held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand from March 5-8, 2014, wasn't surprising. International delegates from USA, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Singapore and France participated in the conference, which saw a total of over 700 delegates and 120 exhibitors in attendance. 

Labsphere's booth saw a steady stream of scientists and researchers who were seeking solutions and measurement systems for the various technological challenges faced by them in their field of optical research. "In addition to our high performance systems, we offer a modular and flexible product line that enables us to engineer product to specific test problems," explained Makarand Wadhavekar, the Sales Manager for India who was ably supported by his distributor Mr Rajeev Gupta of Precision Components. The fact that IRDE (Instruments Research & Development Establishment) where ICOL was held, already had a Labsphere installation in a neighbouring building added to the conviction that comes with a local presence.

Acknowledgement of the recognition that Labsphere enjoys in US came from one of the Senior Optical Physicist at NASA who had come to make a paper presentation at ICOL. ICOL 2014 saw a lot of interest in Labsphere light measurement products, as optical research is set to grow further in India in the defence sector, increased adoption of LED in various applications and UV testing of textiles.

Labsphere Inc., is headquartered in North Sutton, New Hampshire, with a satellite facility in China and a global network of distribution partners. Founded in 1979, it is part of the Halma group of companies. Labsphere specialises in the design and manufacture of high-end light measurement solutions for the LED/SSL lighting industry, uniform sources and products for remote sensing and imager/consumer camera calibration, diffuse optical coatings and materials including Spectralon? and Spectraflect?, and instrumentation and reflectance standards for spectroscopy applications.

Makarand Wadhavekar, Labsphere India Sales Manager, Mumbai. Mobile: 098209- 32299. Email:sales@labsphere.com,mwadhavekar@labsphere.com