Early Life and Education

Richard Gordon Gould, also known as Gordon Gould, was an American physicist and inventor best known for his contributions to the invention of the laser. He was born on July 17, 1920, in New York City, United States, into a Jewish family as the oldest of three sons. Gould showed an early interest in science and engineering and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1941. After his undergraduate studies, he pursued graduate education at Yale University.

World War II and Interrupted Studies

Gould’s education was interrupted by World War II when he was drafted into the United States Army. After the war, he returned to complete his studies and earned his Ph.D. in physics in 1949.

Early Career and Research

In 1949, Gould began working as a researcher at Columbia University, where he participated in various projects, including the study of nuclear structure and nuclear-pumped lasers. His career became focused primarily on the field of optics.

Invention of the Laser

In 1957, Gould came up with the idea of using stimulated emission to create a focused, organized beam of light. He was inspired by physicist Charles Townes, who had invented the maser, which amplified microwave radiation. Gould coined the term “laser,” meaning “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation,” and included this concept in his research papers.

Development of the Helium-Neon Laser

In the early 1960s, Gould invented a gas discharge laser, specifically a helium-neon laser, which became widely used in scientific research, barcode scanners, and laser printers. He also founded Optelecom Inc. in 1962, a company that specialized in laser-based communication and optical fiber technology.

Patent Battles

In 1959, Gould filed a patent application for his laser invention. However, his patent was not immediately granted due to a competing application by Charles Townes and physicist Arthur Schawlow. Supported by TRG, and using his research notebooks as evidence, Gould fought a legal battle for over 30 years to secure recognition and rights to his laser technology.

Teaching and Legal Success

During his lengthy legal struggles, Gould taught at the Polytechnic Institute of New York from 1967 to 1973. Despite initial setbacks, he eventually prevailed in 1987, securing the patent for his laser inventions and the right to substantial royalties.

Later Recognition and Legacy

Though his role in inventing the laser was long contested, Gould was elected to the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1991. His career and achievements significantly improved the use of lasers in various fields. Gould passed away from natural causes on September 16, 2005, in New York City at the age of 85. His work continues to be recognized for its lasting importance.