Nontechnical description: This research project will develop a new way to study unusual behaviors in advanced materials, called moiré materials, made from stacking ultra-thin layers. These moiré materials can create unique "quantum phases," which may lead to future breakthroughs like energy-efficient electronics or powerful quantum computers. However, scientists have not had the right tools to closely examine these tiny layered devices. The research team plans to solve this problem by developing a new kind of light-based tool using terahertz radiation —in between microwave and infrared light. This method, based on a recent breakthrough by the team in generating terahertz radiation, can be used right on the chip and can detect both the energy and structure of these quantum phases. Besides advancing science, the project also includes outreach programs to inspire students of a broad range of backgrounds in New York City to explore careers in science and technology through hands-on research and educational activities. Technical description: The formation of two-dimensional moiré interfaces has created unprecedented opportunities in the exploration of quantum phases of matter, but there is a lack of spectroscopic tools in probing moiré quantum matter, due to a mismatch in sample sizes of moiré devices (~1-10 µm) and the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation (0.1-3 mm) relevant to the low-energy excitations in these quantum phases. The proposed research aims to fill the cr