Deeper knowledge about materials is critical to making advances in technology. ASU researchers are pursuing that knowledge at the university’s Navrotsky Eyring Center for Materials of the Universe, named for Alexandra Navrotsky, a Fulton Schools professor and an accomplished researcher in materials and related areas of science and engineering. ASU leaders, students and faculty members gathered at the new center recently to celebrate its opening and see work already underway at the facility. The photo shows Associate Research Professor Sergey Ushakov demonstrating operation of a laser machine during a tour of the facility. ASU President Michael Crow said the center’s work will contribute to a better understanding of the universe and the forces that shape it.