U of A News: Cosmic Breakthrough & Baseball's Road to Omaha!
The University of Arizona (U of A) is making headlines with advancements in both astronomy and athletics. From groundbreaking research funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to the baseball team's ambitious goals for the 2026 season, U of A continues to be a hub of innovation and competition.
Sharpening the View of the Cosmos
Jacob Isbell, a postdoctoral researcher at the U of A Department of Astronomy, has received nearly $1 million from the NSF to lead the development of the Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer Visible Extension, or LIVE. This instrument will significantly enhance the Large Binocular Telescope's (LBT) visible-light imaging capabilities, allowing scientists to observe the universe with unprecedented resolution.
"I’m thrilled about what the LIVE project makes possible,” said Isbell. “LIVE is an international collaboration that will take proven techniques developed for the LBTI and extend them into the visible-light regime, opening up a new view of the universe.”
LIVE will enable researchers to image fine structures in stars and planetary systems, potentially providing insights into how stars live and die, how planets form, and whether life exists beyond Earth. This project underscores U of A's commitment to empowering early-career researchers and advancing research excellence.
Baseball Eyes Return to Omaha
Arizona baseball is setting its sights on a return trip to Omaha for the College World Series in 2026. Despite a recent pattern of postseason success occurring every four years, the team is optimistic about breaking that trend.
With the transfer portal closed and the MLB Draft concluded, Arizona is poised to return its top two starting pitchers and its Stopper of the Year. Coach Chip Hale and his staff are focusing on building on the successes of the returning players and integrating new talent into the lineup.
If the returning anchors can build on their ‘25 successes — and some newcomers can provide adequate support — the Wildcats will have a chance to win a lot of ballgames even if it takes a while to sort out the starting nine.
The U of A continues to be a dynamic institution, pushing boundaries in both scientific exploration and athletic achievement.