LUMINA TECHNOLOGIES is a research organization in the environmental sciences field specializing in acoustical science, energy, air quality, ecology and archaeological/historical analysis.  Founded in the year 1993, Lumina has conducted over 2500 individual investigations including basic scientific studies as well as site specific research.  With presence in the USA as well as the United Kingdom, the primary geographical areas of focus are Western Europe, Africa, North America and Central America.

Acoustical science programs are built upon investigations originally launched by Lumina staff originating in the 1960s in the fields of community noise impact analysis.  Scientists at Lumina participated in developing some of the first complex computer models for line source noise propagation with early applications to roadway as well as rail transport systems.  These models continue to be refined and are applied to urban planning and transportation system design.  Some applications are also directed to aircraft acoustics

Energy investigations are primarily centered on developing strategies for minimum energy use in commercial buildings.  Basic research has concentrated upon development of computer models for interior illumination of working spaces and also upon interior building air flow.  These tools have permitted the design of cost effective solutions to lighting and to thermal control to reduce energy costs either for new building design or remedial retrofit of existing structures.  Much of Lumina's work has been in the vein of establishing meaningful illumination standards which vary by activity type, in order to protect workers as well as minimize energy consumption.

Air quality investigations include basic research with air pollutant dispersal models as well as applications to microscale impact analysis in urban settings.  The research also includes studies of indoor air quality including phenomena of molecular air chemistry, mold and asbestos fibers.  The majority of atmosperic dispersal studies involve highway system impact analysis and design.  In the indoor settings there are applications of radon gas, toxic gas upward migration from soils and other specialized modeling studies.

Ecology analyses involve identification and mapping of numerous flora and fauna for habitats in different world regions.  Emphasis is placed upon understanding the ecological relationships for rare and endangered species and for endemic species with limited distribution.  Many of these programs stem from a need to identify conservation strategies for threatened species, and an understanding of the environmental conditions which have led to depleted population levels.

Archaeological/Historical programs generally address prehistory or recorded history sites of at least regional significance.  These analyses usually involve extensive archival literature searches as well as field investigations.  Fieldwork emphasizes specific mensuration and other mathematically determinable relationships.  In many programs there is also a joint effort with staff biologists to reconstruct relationships between earlier human habitation of structures with the use and access to biological resources of the past.


For futher information contact:  luminat@sonic.net