Thorlabs Expands Photonics Portfolio with Acquisition of Nu Opto, Inc.
Newton, NJ – October 1, 2025 – Thorlabs today announced the acquisition of Nu Opto, Inc., a leading designer and manufacturer of acousto-optic components. With roots tracing back to Newport Electro-Optic Systems, the Nu Opto team brings over 35 years of expertise in delivering high-quality acousto-optic solutions. Their products combine exceptional reliability and performance to meet the needs of both high-volume OEM integration and demanding stand-alone applications, including next-generation quantum technologies.
“Acousto-optic modulators add to our comprehensive photonics portfolio,” said Dr. Peter Fendel, Chief Technology Officer of Thorlabs. “We are thrilled to welcome such an experienced team and turnkey facility, enabling us to add acousto-optic devices to our offerings and hit the ground running from day one. Our Melbourne, Florida-based team will now be able to provide U.S.-manufactured acousto-optic components for critical applications such as quantum technology and defense.”
Dr. Xin Yang, General Manager at AOC, Nu Opto’s parent company, added: “We are proud of the Nu Opto team’s accomplishments. Joining Thorlabs will provide a strong foundation for continued growth and allow us to better serve customers with enhanced resources and capabilities. We are confident that Thorlabs is the right home for the Nu Opto team.”
About AOC: Founded in 2007 in Long Island, New York, Advanced Optowave Corporation (AOC) is a highly respected global provider of diode-pumped solid-state laser solutions and systems. They are committed to pioneering advancements in laser technology and delivering customized solutions across diverse industries and research fields. Guided by their mission, Laser for Better Life, AOC offers comprehensive laser application solutions serving sectors such as consumer electronics, semiconductors, packaging, medical device manufacturing, micro-LED, the processing of superhard and transparent materials, solar energy, and more.
About Thorlabs: Thorlabs advances and supports scientific innovation through our design and manufacture of photonics technologies. Founded in 1989, the company has expanded its competencies as a vertically integrated photonics manufacturer to play a leading role in the industry across the research, life science, medical, and industrial segments. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs operates a large number of modern manufacturing facilities that encompass everything from traditional machine shops and optics production to cells for advanced assemblies to compound semiconductor fabrication and packaging.