Book excerpt: Compiled by 330 of the most widely respected names in the electro-optical sciences, the Encyclopedia is destined to serve as the premiere guide in the field with nearly 2000 figures, 560 photographs, 260 tables, and 3800 equations. From astronomy to x-ray optics, this reference contains more than 230 vivid entries examining the most intriguing technological advances and perspectives from distinguished professionals around the globe. The contributors have selected topics of utmost importance in areas including digital image enhancement, biological modeling, biomedical spectroscopy, and ocean optics, providing thorough coverage of recent applications in this continually expanding field.