Research laser. Laser (red light) being used in laboratory research. A set of mirrors and lenses are being used to direct the laser. The researcher is wearing goggles to protect his eyes. Artificial smoke or vapour is being used to make the laser beam visible, helping to prevent anyone putting their hand in the beam. Some lasers are powerful enough to heat and burn human tissue. This laser is being used in semiconductor research. Lasers can be used to examine semiconductor surfaces for defects, and to measure the dimensions of thin film semiconductors.