Beyond Discovery: The Path from Research to Human Benefit is a project produced by the National Academy of Sciences (Washington, DC). The Beyond Discovery web site includes a section called, "Modern Communication: The Laser and Fiber-Optic Revolution." The section describes the conception and development of laser technology and optical fiber, showing how basic research dating back to Albert Einstein's work in quantum mechanics led to important practical applications. A chronology of events beginning in 1900 illustrates the science's progress. Although the site is lacking in updated information on current deployment and applications, it offers a good basis for technical understanding. Visit http://www4.nas.edu/beyond/beyonddiscovery.nsf/web/laser?OpenDocument.