- Construction of the German Optical Museum in Jena begins
In Jena, the German Optical Museum is being created. After years of preparation, construction work is set to begin on August 7th. According to founding director Timo Mappes, there is currently no museum in Germany dedicated exclusively to optics. Jena is also recognized internationally as a hub of the optical industry and optics research.
A foundation has been established for this major project. Mappes reports that 56.7 million euros have been secured for the museum, from the state of Thuringia, the federal government and EU, the optics and electronics conglomerate Carl Zeiss, foundations, and other supporters. The museum, which will consist of a new building and a renovated historic optics school, is scheduled to open in 2027.
The scientific approach to the creation of the German Optical Museum involves meticulous planning and the use of advanced technology. The scientific community widely supports this endeavor, recognizing its potential to drive further research in optics.