For lifetime achievement in optical metrology with astronomical instrumentation innovations, technology commercialization, and career-long mentorship, guidance, and team-building in the precision optics and astronomy communities
James Burge in the lab at Arizona Optical Metrology
In the world of precision optics, few names are as recognizable as that of James Burge. His contributions to optical metrology technologies and large-scale mirror fabrication represent only a fraction of an enormous collection of accomplishments that have shaped modern optical engineering and astronomy. Currently the president of Arizona Optical Metrology (AOM) and professor emeritus at the University of Arizona’s Wyant College of Optical Sciences, Burge’s technical know-how and curiosity for all things metrology have permeated his career. The technical capabilities he and his teams have developed are deep and diverse, ranging from enabling some of the largest telescope projects on Earth, to building a metrology company to commercialize the capabilities developed during his academic career.