The very first Arizona Quantum Boot Camp at the University of Arizona was a resounding success. Undergraduate and high school students came from across Arizona to explore the fundamentals of quantum science. The summer camp was also one of the first events held in the newly opened Grand Challenges Research Building, a fitting location to discuss the challenges presented by quantum sciences with the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Wyant College of Optical Sciences itself saw 71 invention disclosures (out of 307, campus-wide), five exclusive licenses and options (out of 75), 108 patents filed (out of 367), and 26 patents issued (out of 78). Congratulations to all the innovators and researchers who made these steps forward possible this financial year!

The NSF Engineering Research Center, the Center for Quantum Networks (CQN) is wrapping up its summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program in the next few days. This year's program includes four students in Arizona and another nine students at CQN partner institutions, visiting from ten different institutions. The summer program ends on Friday, August 9, with student presentations from 10 am to 3 pm at the Grand Challenges Research Building, 1st floor. All faculty, staff, and students, as well as community members are invited to attend and hear more about these exciting projects.

After a harrowing and multi-day delayed launch window the University of Arizona's first student-built satellite, CatSat, successfully communicated with ground stations on July 15th. The CatSat mission is a significant milestone for the University of Arizona, showcasing the capabilities and creativity of student-led space missions.

Florian Willomitzer, Associate Professor of Optical Sciences, and Dongkyun "DK" Kang, Associate Professor of Optical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, have been recognized as 2024 OSA Senior Members of Optica. The Optica designation of OSA Senior Member is a recognition of researchers who have demonstrated significant experience and accomplishments in their professional careers. Read more.