The use of lasers which emit infra-red radiation and sophisticated detectors of IR radiation is increasing dramatically: they are being used for long-distance fibre-optic communications and remote environmental monitoring and sensing. Thus they are of interest to the telecommunications industry and the military in particular. This book has been designed to bring together what is known on these devices, using an international group of contributors.

Standing Watch: The Fire Towers of Arizona explores the eighty one fire towers and cabins of Arizona, discussing the history of the towers and the lookout's role in guarding our forest against the threat of wildfire. The introduction discusses how the towers were built and the history of the Forest Service as it relates to the towers over the last 100 years. The photos give readers a close up glimpse of each tower while individual tower narratives detail the lives of the lookouts as they serve in isolated posts. Standing Watch also gives readers profiles of an Apache Hot Shot crew, a Navajo Fire Technician, two devastating wildfires as well as a personal look at a couple standing watch in southern Arizona. The book is an excellent introduction to these unique historical structures. The book is divided by agency, detailing towers for the six national forests, four native tribes, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service. A description of the tree towers from the early 1900's is included. Standing Watch is truly a unique tribute to the men and women who stand watch over the precious national resource represented in the vast forests of Arizona. The book is a valuable addition for any reader interested in the outdoors and the history of the southwest region of the United States.