Fiber optic sensing (FOS) technologies have evolved over the years, initially serving niche applications in specialized fields. However, they have recently emerged as a solution to revolutionize the capabilities of existing telecommunication networks. Optical networks represent one of the most pervasive distribution infrastructures worldwide, with the potential to become powerful sensing platforms capable of monitoring, predicting and surveying critical environmental parameters and harmful events in real time. FOS applications span a wide range of sectors, from residential and industrial (Industry 4.0) environments to mobile and smart city markets. These solutions can address various use cases such as temperature and humidity monitoring, intrusion detection, seismic activity analysis, energy optimization, traffic management, fault prediction, fire prevention and more. But which fiber optic sensing technologies are best suited for specific applications and network scenarios? Selecting the appropriate sensing approach is essential to ensure accurate, efficient and cost-effective deployments.

A major challenge for FOS systems lies in the acquisition, processing and interpretation of vast amounts of rapidly changing data generated by the sensors and monitoring equipment. The large-scale deployment of fiber optic sensors will inevitably impact the telecommunications network itself, related with bandwidth usage, latency and network management. The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and digital twin technologies will provide advanced analytics capabilities, processing massive datasets in real time, identifying patterns and anomalies.

As fiber optic sensing moves from niche applications to mainstream adoption, integrating with telecommunication networks is creating new opportunities for vendors, operators and end users. This workshop unites leading experts from the vendor, operator and academic communities to explore cutting-edge applications and emerging technology trends. The featured speakers will present compelling examples of how commercial telecommunications networks are being leveraged to provide sensing data across terrestrial and undersea infrastructures. The session will also highlight advancements in technology that are enhancing the sensitivity and range of optical sensing systems, as well as the transformative role of AI in data processing, which is driving significant improvements in accuracy and efficiency.

Enjoy food and drinks with your friends and colleagues during the congress welcome reception.

Admission is included for Full Technical registrants. Additional guest tickets can be purchased when registering for the meeting for USD 65.00.

Novel Optical Materials and Applications (NOMA) and Integrated Photonics Research, Silicon and Nanophotonics (IPR) are organizing a Joint Session on Novel Materials for Integrated Photonics. In addition to the well-established material platforms for integrated photonics, a diverse range of emerging materials with advantageous properties for photonic integrated circuits are gaining attention. This joint session will highlight these exciting new advancements.

The Novel Optical Materials and Applications (NOMA) and Solar, Lighting and Thermal Photonics (SOLITH) meetings are organizing a Joint Session on Perovskites. With their exceptional light-absorbing and light-emitting properties combined with their superior electrical properties, perovskites are emerging as revolutionary materials for solar cells, light emitting diodes, lasers, photodetectors and other applications. In the joint session, the latest developments in this vibrant field will be discussed.

Join fellow congress attendees for a speical evening at the Musée de la civilisation.  Overlooking the port from its seat in Old Quebéc, the museum takes a fresh look at the human experience.

Separate registation is required for this event. Tickets can be purchased when registering for the congress.

The congress concludes with a toast. It's a time to reflect on the week and discuss learnings with fellow attendees.