Ortega Observatory

Experience the Radiance of the Ortega Observatory: Where Science Meets Inspiration!

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Luis Quiroga-Nuñez, the Ortega Observatory has undergone a profound metamorphosis into a premier hub for astrophysical exploration, a beacon of knowledge for the Florida Tech community, and a shining light of outreach for the Space Coast citizens of Florida. Teaming up with NASA Kennedy Space Center, we are forging a strategic alliance aimed at nurturing the next generation of American scientists, with a focused educational thrust toward Florida Tech.

Our observatory stands as a testament to impactful research, educational excellence, and community engagement, weaving together a tapestry of scientific discovery and wonder. Explore our transformative initiatives below.

Research

The research conducted at the Ortega observatory spans a vast spectrum of cosmic exploration, encompassing the fields of astronomy and astrophysics, heliophysics, planetary science, and astrobiology. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research methodologies, this observatory contributes to humanity's collective understanding of the cosmos and our place within it. 

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Astronomy and astrophysics encompass the study of celestial objects and phenomena beyond Earth's atmosphere, delving into the origins, evolution, and properties of galaxies, stars, planets, and cosmic structures. This interdisciplinary field employs a combination of observational and theoretical methods to unravel the mysteries of the universe, probing fundamental questions about its composition, dynamics, and fate. From the exploration of distant galaxies and the discovery of exoplanets to the investigation of black holes and the nature of dark matter and dark energy, astronomy and astrophysics continually push the boundaries of human understanding, offering insights into the profound workings of the cosmos and our place within it.

Researchers working this filed:

• Dr. Luis Quiroga-Nuñez, Director Ortega Observatory, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. Eric Perlman, Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. David Harris, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. Don Warren, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. Evan A. Smith, Instructor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences

Heliophysics

Heliophysics is the interdisciplinary scientific field that explores the dynamic interactions between the Sun and the space environment, including the Earth and other planetary bodies. By studying phenomena such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections, solar wind, and magnetic fields, heliophysicists seek to understand how the Sun's activity influences space weather and impacts technological systems, satellite communications, and astronaut safety. Through a combination of observational data, theoretical modeling, and advanced instrumentation, heliophysics illuminates the fundamental processes driving solar variability and its cascading effects throughout the solar system, providing crucial insights for both space exploration and Earth-based applications.

Researchers working this filed:

• Dr. Jean Carlos Perez, Associate Professor, Physics and Space Science Program Chair, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. Sofianne Bourouaine, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences

• Juan Carlos Palacios, Ph.D., Research Scientist, Department of Aerospace, Physics & Space Sciences

Planetary Sciences

Planetary science is a multifaceted discipline dedicated to the study of planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and other objects within our solar system and beyond. It encompasses a wide range of scientific inquiries, including planetary formation, geology, atmospheres, climates, and potential for life. By combining data from spacecraft missions, telescopic observations, laboratory experiments, and theoretical models, planetary scientists seek to unravel the complex histories and dynamics of celestial bodies, shedding light on their origins, evolution, and potential habitability. From the exploration of Mars and the icy moons of Jupiter to the investigation of distant exoplanets, planetary science offers profound insights into the diversity and interconnectedness of worlds across the cosmos.

• Dr. Csaba Palotai, Associate Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences
• Dr. Howard Chen, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences

Astrobiology

Astrobiology is an interdisciplinary field that explores the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe. By integrating knowledge from astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and planetary science, astrobiologists seek to understand the conditions and processes that give rise to life on Earth and potentially elsewhere in the cosmos. Key research areas include the study of extremophiles on Earth, the search for habitable environments in our solar system and beyond, the detection of biosignatures in exoplanetary atmospheres, and the exploration of the potential for life beyond Earth. Through a combination of theoretical models, laboratory experiments, field studies, and space missions, astrobiology aims to address one of humanity's most profound questions: are we alone in the universe?

• Dr. Andrew Palmer, Associate Department Head & Program Chair, Associate Professor, Marine & Environmental Science, Oceanography, and Meteorology
  • Palmer Lab of Chemical Ecology and Astrobiology
  • RADISH (Research to Advance the Development of Interstellar Horticulture)

• Dr. Manasvi Lingam, Assistant Professor, Aerospace, Physics, & Space Sciences