23 - 27 August 2026
San Diego, California, US

Attending SPIE Optics + Photonics

Be a part of this important event featuring the best in optical sciences technology
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Join your colleagues in San Diego

The event where the latest advances are shared by the optics and photonics community in optical engineering, nanotechnology, quantum science, and organic photonics.

Register online

Event venue

San Diego Convention Center
111 W Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

Register today

Why attend Optics + Photonics?

Poster session in a large conference hall with attendees standing and discussing research displayed on boards. Multiple rows of posters are visible, and people are engaged in conversations throughout the space.

Share in the latest research

Gain access to thousands of presentations showcasing the latest breakthroughs from around the world

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Connect with colleagues

Various technical and networking events are provided to help you make important contacts

Person giving a presentation on stage next to a clear podium, with a green and black backdrop displaying the SPIE Optics + Photonics Logo.

Hear world-class plenaries

Leaders in optics and photonics research share their latest challenges and opportunities

An opportunity to engage with leading companies at the SPIE Optics + Photonics exhibition

Learn more about the free exhibition

Join industry representatives in the San Diego Convention Center. Companies offer an inside look into their portfolio of products and services — product demonstrations are shared, connections are made in one-on-one conversations with company representatives.

Three people standing at a trade show booth, looking at precision instruments displayed on a white counter. Exhibition banners and technical equipment are visible in the background.

Take advantage of onsite training

Advance your skills; advance your career

Created by experts, SPIE courses are designed to expand professional knowledge and skills. Topics include optomechanics, optical systems design and engineering, CMOS, Remote Sensing Systems, and more.

Person giving a presentation in a conference room, pointing at a slide on a large screen that shows diagrams and text about optical reflections and measurements. Several attendees are seated and watching the presentation.

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the SPIE Society Awards event!

Celebrating the brightest minds

Don't miss the annual Society Awards banquet! Hosted by 2026 SPIE President Julie Bentley, this event recognizes the exceptional achievements in the science of light.

Held at EVE this brand-new space offers breathtaking 270-degree views of San Diego Bay, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy drinks and a delicious full-course meal. Tickets available for purchase. Transportation provided.

The EVE, Nestled atop the Edge building on North Harbor Drive, this brand-new space offers breathtaking 270-degree views of San Diego Bay.

Travel grants and fee waivers for Student Members

Student Members may qualify for support

SPIE Student Members are encouraged to apply for supplemental travel grants and fee waivers to attend Optics + Photonics. Student Members who are presenting authors will be given priority selection, but grants are open to all Student Members.

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Get familiar with the free SPIE conference app

See for yourself all the things the app can do to enhance your conference experience.
  • Browse and search the program to find talks and special events
  • Find people in the program and see if they are attending or presenting
  • Plan and save your entire conference schedule
  • Explore a grid view of the program and your personal schedule
  • Locate events on a dynamic floorplan
  • Find key exhibitors, job fair companies, and product demonstrations
  • Request an alert when a proceedings paper publishes
  • Export a comprehensive trip report with your notes and meeting activity
  • Fill out and submit a session chair report.

San Diego - Sustainability and Community

The city of San Diego is recognized nationally for sustainability and resilience. In 2025, San Diego achieved LEED Gold Certification for Cities and Communities from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

The San Diego Convention Center has a particular focus on energy resiliency, sustainable sourcing, food waste reduction, and plastic reduction. Learn more

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