As is tradition at the HiLASE Centre, we once again opened our doors to the public to celebrate the International Day of Light. Visitors had the opportunity to peek inside our experimental halls, attend a brand-new lecture, or even create their own hologram.
In a talk titled Once Upon a Photon, HiLASIAN Lucie Ferstová introduced the fundamental physics of light and explored the many ways photonic technologies are present in our everyday lives. Her colleague Filip Čáp then guided visitors through the Laser Shock Peening experimental halls, where light is used to strengthen materials.
In the Centre’s lobby, science enthusiasts big and small had plenty to enjoy with a range of interactive exhibits and activities—some returning favourites and some exciting new additions:
- A space-themed station, where participants learned about HiLASE’s journey beyond Earth and competed for themed prizes;
- A light lab featuring holograms, an infinity cube, and a new exhibit illustrating how the different components of visible light interact;
- A laser safety station, where visitors could try on protective laser goggles and measure the output of their laser pointers;
- Face painting with space and light-inspired designs.
Last but not least, the LSP hall tours were accompanied by a display of treated material samples and a model of the BIVOJ laser, which is used in this technology.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this year’s Day of Light—we look forward to seeing you again at Researchers’ Night on Friday, 26 September 2025!
