In our Summer Edition of Circle Optics 360° Pulse Magazine, we spotlight Pegasus—our groundbreaking panoramic imaging system delivering real-time situational awareness across a 220° horizontal field of regard. This issue is a multidimensional showcase of the innovation, talent, and strategic vision propelling Circle Optics forward in 2025. From thought leadership on immersive technology and the future of VR by CEO Zak (Zakariya) Niazi , to insights on operational agility from COO Ian Gauger, and exclusive conversations with autonomy and optics pioneers like Michael Robbins ( AUVSI — Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International) Dr. Roarke Horstmeyer ( Ramona Optics), and John Bowron- PhD in Physics- Optics Consulting this publication captures the people and principles behind our technology. Whether you’re an investor, policymaker, engineer, or enthusiast, this edition offers a rare window into the convergence of optical engineering, AI, and public policy shaping the future of aerospace and defense innovation.
Panoramic Photography:In this special edition of 360 Pulse, we spotlight Pegasus—our groundbreaking panoramic imaging system delivering real-time situational awareness across a 220° horizontal field of regard. This issue is a multidimensional showcase of the innovation, talent, and strategic vision propelling Circle Optics forward in 2025. From thought leadership on immersive technology and the future of VR by CEO Zak Niazi, to insights on operational agility from COO Ian Gauger, and exclusive conversations with autonomy and optics pioneers like Michael Robbins (AUVSI), Dr. Roarke Horstmeyer (Ramona Optics), and Dr. John Bowron, this publication captures the people and principles behind our technology. Whether you’re an investor, policymaker, engineer, or enthusiast, this edition offers a rare window into the convergence of optical engineering, AI, and public policy shaping the future of aerospace and defense innovation.
This gap between real and virtual stems from the limitations of display technology. With a true light field display, the angle of light coming from each point in the scene is precisely controlled, just as it is in the real world. Instead of projecting two static views, a light field display would emit a spectrum of rays at different angles, giving each eye (and each focal depth) the correct perspective. You’d be able to look around objects, change your plane of focus, and experience the kind of natural parallax you get by simply leaning left or right in real life. That extra layer of realism can mean the difference between “I’m looking at a simulation” versus “I’m actually in the simulation.”
Operational agility is essential for startup success. By leveraging technology, we enhance efficiency, foster adaptability, and enable scalable growth. At Circle Optics, we embrace continuous learning and experimentation. Just as we are including our broader community in testing Hydra III and advancing our technology roadmap, I encourage everyone to explore new tools and systems that can further strengthen our operational agility. Our human capital roadmap is as important as our technology roadmap.
As we grow, our team remains our greatest asset. We are actively hiring specialized talent to accelerate time to market, and evaluate candidates across three key core values: Know-how, Synergy and Innovation.This year marked a pivotal chapter for Circle Optics. With continued operational agility, we can look forward to sustained success.
“Operational agility isn’t just about speed—it’s about alignment, clarity, and the courage to pivot when it matters most,” Jennifer Sertl, VP of Marketing
Michael Robbins is the President & CEO of AUVSI, the world’s largest association dedicated to advancing uncrewed systems, autonomy, and robotics across defense, civil, and commercial domains. A seasoned leader in government affairs and public policy, Michael has been instrumental in advocating for critical regulatory updates such as BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations. With decades of experience across Capitol Hill, trade associations, and as a Navy Reservist, his leadership bridges national defense, aviation safety, and emerging technology. He has successfully launched strategic initiatives like the Trusted Cyber Program and Green UAS to accelerate industry innovation. Robbins is passionate about aligning policy with the pace of technology to maintain and build U.S. leadership in autonomy and aerospace.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Robbins shares his leadership philosophy, discusses the urgency of BVLOS reform, and outlines the industry’s responsibility to build trust through security, readiness, and cross-sector collaboration.
Advocacy in Action:Bridging Innovation with PolicY
At Circle Optics, we believe that groundbreaking technology and forward-thinking policy must work together to drive progress. Our recent trip to Washington, D.C., reinforced this belief as we engaged with key policymakers and industry leaders to discuss the future of aviation, UAS integration, and national security. These conversations highlighted the importance of strategic advocacy in ensuring that American innovation continues to lead the way in defense and aerospace.
One of the key highlights of our visit was meeting with Representative Joe Morelle, who has long been a champion for Rochester-based technology companies and a strong advocate for economic development in Upstate New York. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Morelle plays a critical role in determining federal funding priorities, making his leadership essential for advancing defense innovation and fostering industry growth.
Following our discussion, Founder and CEO Zak Niazi reflected on the alignment between national security goals and Circle Optics’ mission, commenting, “It was fantastic meeting with Congressman Morelle and other Representatives. It is clear that there is a unified vision in Congress to keep our troops and national airspace safer, and at Circle we are committed to building technologies that do just that.”
Circle Optics’ pioneering work in high-fidelity imaging systems is directly relevant to UAS operations, battlefield awareness, and national defense initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to developing technologies that enhance situational awareness and mission effectiveness.
To support this mission, Circle Optics has partnered with VENTURE Government Strategies , a leading firm specializing in federal advocacy and strategic navigation of complex appropriations processes.
“We are honored to be working with Hamilton Bloom, Partner at Venture Government Strategies, whose prior leadership roles include serving as Republican Subcommittee Staff Director for the Senate Appropriations Committee and supporting major legislative efforts, including the CARES Act. With his expertise and commitment, Circle Optics is well-positioned to advance policy conversations that accelerate innovation and national defense.” Hamilton Bloom, Venture Government Strategies
“The landscape of government contracting is evolving with an increased emphasis on innovation, a heavy reliance on technology, and a continued focus on streamlining processes. Companies should prepare for evolving compliance issues, be digitally savvy, and maintain agility and adaptability. Adaptations don’t need to be extensive but should be timely and responsive to the constant changes in the field.” Ashley Chung, Director of Business Development, SBIR Advisors Inc.
“MCFL APEX has been providing guidance to Circle Optics since 2023 in their innovation efforts, as they address the needs of the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Working with Zak Niazi and Ian Gauger, they do understand that protecting the warfighter is critical and incorporate that into their mission. Their wide field-of-view imaging capabilities have the potential to significantly advance defense components, support large prime contractors, and drive innovation across the commercial sector. Anna Vulaj Fitzsimmons ,Program Director, Monroe County Finger Lakes APEX Accelerator
