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.

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In 2024, @uflorida researchers continued moving th

In 2024, @uflorida researchers continued moving the state, nation and world forward. As we look toward 2025, we eagerly anticipate the continued impact they will create across various fields.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorde

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder affecting movement, causing symptoms like slowness, tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. Diagnosis is based on patient-performed exercises, as there are no specific lab tests.

Assistant professor of applied physiology and kinesiology Diego Guarin and a team of @uflorida neurologists have developed an AI video-processing technique to track Parkinson's progression. This #AIatUF system, supported by HiPerGator, analyzes videos of patients performing the finger-tapping test, detecting subtle changes in hand movements. Guarin is also working with @gogators_ufit on a mobile app to help individuals monitor their disease at home and provide this technology to healthcare providers.

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.

UF Research on YouTube

Making space more hospitable, for people and machines. Click on "A Harsh Environment" to learn more.

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UF researchers in 2024

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Mars rover missions and gravitational waves. Click on "Percy and LISA" to learn more.

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Research News

A photo of a woman in a blue lab jacket doing work in the lab.

Clinical and research programs at the UF College of Medicine aim to improve the lives of millions with diabetes — Emily Mavrakis

An image of human hands holding a phone with cash app logos above it and a laptop sitting open on a desk.

United Nations ratifies UF-created framework to protect people on cash apps — Karen Dooley

A photo of several people posing for a picture.

Space Florida announces launch of Florida University Space Consortium

An image of a goat.

Scientists trained AI to detect faces in pain. In goats. —Eric Hamilton