In this interview, Dr. Mark Blumenkranz provides a broad, sweeping review of the advances in laser research for therapeutic applications in ophthalmology. Dr. Blumenkranz discusses the pioneers who discovered the use of light for photocoagulation in the eye and later proved both its safety and efficacy with the advent of argon laser systems. In gauging the current state of laser therapy and its role in treating retinal disease, Dr. Blumenkranz discusses pattern-scanning (PASCAL) laser, the benefits of laser treatment for both proliferative and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, and the future of micropulse photocoagulation, or selective retina therapy (SRT).