CREOL Professor Stephen Eikenberry was recently featured on FOX 35 Orlando discussing his research developing advanced photonic technology to search for potentially habitable planets beyond our solar system. By precisely controlling light, Eikenberry and his team are working to overcome a major challenge in astronomy: detecting planets that are billions of times fainter than the stars they orbit. Their technology could help scientists better observe distant planets and analyze their atmospheres for signs of water vapor and other conditions that could support life.
Supported by NASA, Eikenberry and his team of students are developing advanced devices called photonic lanterns that are being tested at observatories around the world. The technology could improve the capabilities of existing telescopes and help guide future NASA missions in the search for life beyond Earth.