Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) was organized to increase and diffuse the knowledge of optics, pure and applied; to promote the common interests of investigators of optical problems, of designers and of users of optical apparatus of all kinds; and to encourage cooperation among them. The purposes of the Society are scientific, technical and educational. OSA sponsors small and large meetings consisting of a technical program and an industrial exhibition appropriate to the subject matter and number of attendees. Large conferences often include professional education courses and workshops addressing the state of emerging technology and industry.
The Optical Society brings together optics and photonics scientists, engineers, educators, and business leaders. OSA's membership totals more than 16,000 individuals from over 100 countries. Approximately 49 percent of the Society's members reside outside the United States.

MISSION OF OSA
“Since 1916, working to bring together scientists, engineers, educators, technicians and business leaders in the fields of optics and photonics.”
OSA Official Website