Townes Institute for Science and Technology Experimentation Facility
The Townes Institute for Science, Technology, and Experimentation Facility (TISTEF) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is a one-of-a-kind, UCF-managed Space Force asset located 33 miles east of the main campus, within the secure boundaries of Kennedy Space Center (KSC).
TISTEF plays a critical role in UCF’s Department of War (DoW) and military research portfolio by providing a unique subtropical maritime facility for advanced experimentation. Its research spans hyperspectral imaging from rockets and satellites, precision laser illumination and ranging, atmospheric characterization, optical communication technologies, drone interaction, power beaming, laser weapons and combat system integration, artificial intelligence, and adaptive optics.
Nationally Recognized Laser Test Facility
Since assuming operations in 2014, UCF has propelled TISTEF into a nationally recognized platform for Directed Energy (DE) applications. It is currently the only U.S. university operating a fully approved laser test range authorized by:
- Space Force Delta 45
- U.S. Air Force
- NASA
- FAA
- Laser Clearing House (LCH)
TISTEF Capabilities & Facilities
TISTEF is capable of conducting laser propagation testing over land, water, and into space—making UCF a recognized leader in the directed energy testing community.
- 1 km terrestrial laser range, with planned extensions to 3 km and 5 km
- 13 km 1 degree slant path to the roof of NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB)
- 1–10 km maritime overwater ranges
- Fully equipped indoor laser laboratories, with:
- Direct access to outdoor ranges
- Coude path projector for complex experiments
- Airspace deconfliction and clearance capabilities for terrestrial and space-targeted laser propagation
- JLDSS onsite to provide large windows of opportunity
- Custom satellite tracking via TLE databases and mount configurations
- Mobile labs, towers, vehicles, and diagnostic platforms
- Support for High Energy Laser (HEL) testing at the Launch and Landing Facility (LLF)
- Capability to host external mobile laser systems and test platforms
- Full machine shop with 5-ton overhead crane for on-site support and repairs
- Onsite subject matter experts in directed energy and optical sensing technologies
About UCF
As one of the countries largest universities, the University of Central Florida is a recognized leader in military and defense-focused research. UCF’s strategic partnerships with the DoW and other agencies fuel innovative research and the development of next-generation technologies to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.