This is reflected in the activities of the Group which was founded in 1946 and now has some 350 members. The Group endeavours to provide a forum for spectroscopists from a variety of backgrounds. Members are drawn from industrial, academic and government establishments. Their interests span the electro-magnetic spectrum and include theoretical aspects, instrument design and methodology, and elucidation of atomic and molecular structure.
Applications range from astrochemistry to environmental monitoring.
Such a diversity of interest presents a challenge to the committee and suggestions for new meetings topics are always welcome. The committee is keen to facilitate collaboration between the different spectroscopic communities. There is frequent collaboration between the Spectroscopy Group and the other special interest groups of the Institute, for example the Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics Division and Quantum Electronics Group. The committee aims to organise about four meetings each year. A particular activity of the Group is to provide an opportunity for younger members of the community to meet, share ideas, and present their work.