Microwaves Are the First Step
Leaping a Few Orders of Magnitude: The Optical Maser
The Outsider's Invention: The Laser
Bell Labs Takes the Early Lead
Stimulating the Emission of Money
A Spreading Interest in the Laser Idea
A Dark Horse Joins the Race
"Everybody knew it was going to happen within months"-Bell Labs Feels Safely in the Lead
A Crash Program at "Pipsqueak Inc."
The Siren Call of the Laser
The Critical Question of Efficiency
An Idea Simpler in Theory Than in Practice
Triumph in the Palace of Science
An Unexpected Struggle for Acceptance
"We were astounded"-A Stunned Reaction
Runners-Up Cross the Finish Line.
