CREOL News

Alejandro Lopez Zelaya ’25 is one of many UCF College of Optics and Photonics alums who power industry across Florida.

The hands-on program also introduces teenagers to the many STEM opportunities offered at UCF.

The three-year project, supported by a $750K grant, is part of Sandia’s Photonic Enable Tera-scale InfraRed Imager (PETRI) Grand Challenge Laboratory Directed Research and Development program.

The 2025 Reach for the Stars award recipients are recognized for conducting highly successful research and fostering creative activity that has a national or international impact.

The new specialized tunable detection and imaging technique for infrared photons surpasses present technology and may be a cost-effective method of capturing thermal imaging or night vision, medical imaging, spectroscopy and space exploration.

The tour included visits with the Institute for Simulation and Training, the College of Optics and Photonics and the Center of Excellence in Hypersonic and Space Propulsion.

The laser device could be used for defense applications and civilian purposes, including room disinfection and water sterilization.

UCF is advancing cutting-edge space research while offering unique opportunities for students to launch their careers in the space industry.

UCF and the University of South Florida facilitated a two-day symposium where faculty from Florida universities and U.S. Department of Defense research and development officers collaborated on advancing critical technologies.