Explore Research at the University of Florida -

Space Exploration Hub

UF's new Astraeus Space Institute promotes research collaboration
By Rob Ferl

A trio of satellites nicknamed LISA will one day measure gravitational waves that reveal the origins of the universe with unprecedented range and clarity.

Percy and LISA

UF space researchers play pivotal roles in major missions
By Doug Bennett

Opening illustration by Katherine Kinsley Momberger for A Harsh Environment feature story in Explore.

A Harsh Environment

Making space more hospitable, for people and machines
By Doug Bennett

NASA rocket launching at Kennedy Space Center.

Mission Control

UF leads the way at the Space Life Sciences Lab
By Joseph Kays

Portrait of Jason Dittmann standing in front of a screen showing a starry backdround.

9 Questions with Jason Dittmann

UF astronomer shares his research on exoplanets

We have science covered.

Explore engages readers in the journey of scientific discovery, research, scholarship and creativity at the University of Florida. We invite our readers along for the adventure as faculty and students pursue knowledge in the laboratory, in the field and in the studio.

Explore Magazine

Read our latest issue – Fall 2024

Cover art of Explore Fall 2024 issue.

uf.research

Exploring how University of Florida researchers’ contributions are changing the world around us.

Nils Averesch, an assistant professor of space bio

Nils Averesch, an assistant professor of space biology is exploring bioplastics at @nasa's Space Life Sciences Lab, using carbon dioxide as a sustainable feedstock.

As we envision future missions to Mars and beyond, the ability to manufacture critical components "in situ" will be essential. By combining biotechnology with planetary resources, we can create resilient habitats and advance autonomous exploration throughout our solar system.

Mars in a box? @uflorida Astrobiologist Andrew Sch

Mars in a box? @uflorida Astrobiologist Andrew Schuerger created a Mars-simulation chamber in the Space Life Sciences Lab, just outside @nasakennedy, to not only help us understand planetary protection but also pave the way for sustainable space missions.

From drug discovery on Earth to space research in

From drug discovery on Earth to space research in orbit, @uflorida Associate Professor of Pharmacodynamics Siobhan Malany's "lab on a chip" systems are revolutionizing how we study muscle physiology and age-related diseases like sarcopenia.

Her work exploring liver metabolism and biomanufacturing in space is paving the way for advancements both in orbit and on Earth. “Mars missions and other long-term explorations are when you need to be producing your own vitamins or the building blocks for other chemicals and drugs,” she says.

“You can’t put a laptop into space,” Peterse

“You can’t put a laptop into space,” Petersen says.

For @uflorida Assistant Professor Christopher Petersen, the dream is a "self-driving" satellite that can operate with minimal intervention. Despite the challenges of space radiation and outdated computer processors, his lab optimizes satellite operations, hardware and software amid extreme mission and safety constraints. That means docking a satellite while minimizing fuel use, coaxing a satellite into a particular orbit as quickly as possible or autonomously exploring unknown regions around the moon.

Petersen's focus on precise guidance and modular components is key to making this innovation possible, freeing up mission-control workers to focus on higher-order tasks.

As lengthy space missions become more common, @ufl

As lengthy space missions become more common, @uflorida Professor of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology Rachael Seidler is studying how the brain copes with challenges in space, aiming to shine a light on its remarkable potential for growth and healing.

Pushing ever deeper into the mysteries of neuroplasticity in space, Seidler uncovers fascinating insights on the brain's resilience and adaptation. Her dedication to understanding the effects of microgravity on astronauts not only benefits space exploration but also holds promise for medical advancements on Earth.

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Research News

A photo of Juan Gilbert.

President Biden appoints University of Florida distinguished computer science Professor Juan Gilbert, Ph.D., to National Science Board

A photo of multiple people sitting at a table studying shark fossils.

When Paleontology Meets AI, K-12 Students Find Thrilling New Ways to Study Shark Fossils — Rebecca Burton and Carla Ruffer

A photo of Alina Zare.

Alina Zare named new director of UF’s Interdisciplinary Informatics and Artificial Intelligence Research Institute — Joseph Kays

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Christine Schmidt inducted into National Academy of Engineering — Karen Dooley