Hologram

A hologram is a recording of an interference pattern that reproduces a image with optional depth (a 3D image) when illuminated. Specifically it reproduces a wavefront. Holograms can reproduce normal 2D as well, and it is easier for a computer to make a hologram that makes a 2D image.

An example of a hologram is the Science Year hologram.

Many people have gotten the wrong idea about holograms from Star Wars, which is that they are floating transparent images. A floating image and an image that has depth (A 3D image) are different concepts. An image that has depth and an image that can be viewed from multiple angles are separate concepts. A partially see-through image is a separate concept from all of these.

Misuse

Some companies have advertised using the word hologram but have actually advertised other technology, like flat see-through displays or multiscopic displays:

• Microsoft
• Proto Hologram
• Looking Glass Factory
• Holus