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optics

VanaM’s first project: Multifunctional, energy-responsive vanadium dioxide (VO₂) thin films—demonstrating progression toward device integration and application readiness from left to right. (Photo provided by VanaM)
Aug 21, 2025

VanaM Inc. brings agile thin film innovation to the heart of photonics | Luminate Profile

As industries push toward faster, smaller and more powerful technologies, the demand for advanced materials has never been greater.

Congressman Joseph Morelle (center) accepts APOMA’s first-ever honorary membership plaque from Executive Director Yvette Pagano (left) and APOMA President Zach Hobbs (right). (Photo provided by APOMA)
Aug 21, 2025

APOMA names Morelle first honorary member

The American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association has named Congressman Joseph Morelle its first-ever honorary member.

Syntec Optics is located on Lee Road in Rochester. (file photo)
Jul 25, 2025

Syntec Optics expands defense and space portfolio with new orders

Rochester-based Syntec Optics Holdings Inc. announced two new orders that highlight its growing role in advanced U.S. manufacturing. 

Sanela Lampa-Pastirk, associate professor and co-director of Nazareth's biomedical science program, is working on a system of advanced lasers that uses light to study extremely fast processes. (Photo provided by Nazareth)
Jul 22, 2025

Nazareth University launches optics minor

Nazareth University is launching a new minor in optics, equipping students for jobs in the high-demand field. 

Optimax employs nearly 500 workers, occupying over 200,000 square feet of space at its Ontario Wayne County-based site. (Photo provided by Optimax)
Jul 7, 2025

Spilman leading Optimax into next frontier

Optimax Systems, the nation's largest precision optics maker, is growing its workforce and facilities at its Ontario, Wayne County-based site.  

At 3.5 meters in diameter, the 3,500-pound secondary mirror is L3Harris’ largest optic to date for a ground-based observatory. (Photo provided by L3Harris)
Jul 1, 2025

L3Harris’ Rochester team plays key role in groundbreaking space telescope

L3Harris in Rochester played a pivotal role in building the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s massive secondary mirror.

Rochester optics firm names new leader 
Jun 5, 2025

QED establishes European HQ with acquisition of Dutch firm

QED Technologies has acquired Dutch United Instruments, strengthening its global metrology capabilities and establishing a European headquarters in the Netherlands.

QED’s $18.7M expansion will add up to 72 new jobs and create a research and development center at its Rochester site. (photo courtesy of ESD)
May 14, 2025

QED launches $18.7M expansion in Rochester

QED is investing $18.7 million to expand its Rochester facility, adding 72 jobs and enhancing its R&D and manufacturing capabilities.

EvolvOptic launches $5.1M expansion to boost optics innovation in Rochester
Apr 24, 2025

EvolvOptic launches $5.1M expansion to boost optics innovation in Rochester

EvolvOptic is embarking on a $5.1 million project to expand its local operation and add up to 40 new jobs over the next five years. 

Luminate NY is now accepting applications for its sixth cohort.
Mar 27, 2025

10 companies selected for the next round of Luminate NY OPI Accelerator in Rochester 

Ten companies will be headed to Rochester for round eight of the Luminate NY accelerator program, investment fund and competition.  

Luminate NY Spotlight: LIDROTEC Reduces High Waste in the Microchip Manufacturing Process
Aug 23, 2022

Luminate NY Spotlight: LIDROTEC Reduces High Waste in the Microchip Manufacturing Process

LIDROTEC provides wafer dicing laser machines that use ultrashort laser pulses in a liquid environment to cut semiconductors.

Oct 13, 2021

Optical transceiver firm receives nine patents

Rochester’s Precision Optical Transceivers Inc., a leading provider of optical transceivers and related active/passive optical components, has acquired nine patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in the areas […]