Dr. Luis H. Quiroga-Nunez - Astrophysics Advisor & Space Science ADVISOR
An astrophysicist, researcher, and educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists through the exploration of the universe.
Dr. Luis Henry Quiroga-Núñez is a Professor of Astrophysics at the Florida Institute of Technology and Director of the Ortega Observatory in Melbourne, Florida. His international academic journey has taken him from South America to Europe and the United States, where he has built a distinguished career in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science at leading research institutions. His expertise spans stellar astrometry, Galactic stellar populations, exoplanet detection, and the study of the Milky Way using observations from both ground-based and space-based observatories. He has secured research funding from major U.S. agencies, including NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF), to advance cutting-edge astrophysical research and student training.
Throughout his career, Dr. Quiroga-Núñez has combined pioneering scientific research with a strong commitment to education, mentorship, and public outreach. His work has contributed to international collaborations that have advanced our understanding of stars, planetary systems, and the structure of our Galaxy. As a former Jansky Fellow at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, leader of the partnership between Florida Tech and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and founder of the RECA Internship Program, which provides aspiring astronomers with international research and training opportunities, he has created pathways that connect students with world-class scientific experiences. He is also an active member of leading scientific organizations, including the American Astronomical Society, the National Society of Hispanic Physicists, and the International Astronomical Union, bringing a truly global perspective to science education.
At KSCIA, Dr. Quiroga-Núñez supports the development of authentic space science experiences that connect students with the excitement of real-world scientific discovery. Through mentorship, scientific guidance, and close engagement with students and educators, he helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and the dynamic world of modern astrophysics.
His mission is to demonstrate that curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific exploration can open the door to extraordinary opportunities. By inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), he seeks to empower the next generation of innovators while contributing to humanity's ever-expanding understanding of the universe.
Dr. Luis Henry Quiroga-Núñez is a Professor of Astrophysics at the Florida Institute of Technology and Director of the Ortega Observatory in Melbourne, Florida. His international academic journey has taken him from South America to Europe and the United States, where he has built a distinguished career in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science at leading research institutions. His expertise spans stellar astrometry, Galactic stellar populations, exoplanet detection, and the study of the Milky Way using observations from both ground-based and space-based observatories. He has secured research funding from major U.S. agencies, including NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF), to advance cutting-edge astrophysical research and student training.
Throughout his career, Dr. Quiroga-Núñez has combined pioneering scientific research with a strong commitment to education, mentorship, and public outreach. His work has contributed to international collaborations that have advanced our understanding of stars, planetary systems, and the structure of our Galaxy. As a former Jansky Fellow at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, leader of the partnership between Florida Tech and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and founder of the RECA Internship Program, which provides aspiring astronomers with international research and training opportunities, he has created pathways that connect students with world-class scientific experiences. He is also an active member of leading scientific organizations, including the American Astronomical Society, the National Society of Hispanic Physicists, and the International Astronomical Union, bringing a truly global perspective to science education.
At KSCIA, Dr. Quiroga-Núñez supports the development of authentic space science experiences that connect students with the excitement of real-world scientific discovery. Through mentorship, scientific guidance, and close engagement with students and educators, he helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and the dynamic world of modern astrophysics.
His mission is to demonstrate that curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific exploration can open the door to extraordinary opportunities. By inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), he seeks to empower the next generation of innovators while contributing to humanity's ever-expanding understanding of the universe.
