Frank Ravizza
About Frank Ravizza
Frank Ravizza is an optical engineer with extensive experience in designing high-performance telescopes and managing space missions. He has worked at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory since 2004, leading R&D efforts in optical technology and supporting astrophysical research.
Work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Frank Ravizza has worked at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as an Optical Engineer since 2004. In this role, he serves as a product development leader for LLNL's space-telescope portfolio. He manages the complete life-cycle of projects, from mission concept development to flight operations. His responsibilities include providing research and development leadership as Principal Investigator for multi-discipline engineering teams, focusing on innovative space telescope technology.
Education and Expertise
Frank Ravizza holds a Master of Science degree in Optical Science and Engineering from the University of Arizona. He also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Optical Science and Engineering from the University of California, Davis. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his expertise in optical engineering, particularly in the design and development of optical instruments for space applications.
Background
Frank Ravizza has extensive practical experience as Lead Optical Engineer for various flight payloads, contributing to multiple space missions. His work involves investigating mission concepts for constellations of Electro-Optical and Infrared sensors, utilizing scalable and modular optical telescopes. This background has equipped him with the skills necessary to address complex challenges in the field of optical engineering.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Frank Ravizza has directed research and development efforts in space-based free-space optical communication, resulting in patent applications. He assists astrophysicists and astronomers by designing optical instruments for small satellite mission concepts. His contributions include projects related to gravitational microlensing surveys and exoplanet spectroscopy proposals for NASA's Astrophysics Explorers Program.