On 12 and 13 November 2025, the HiLASE Centre hosted the third edition of the ROBUSTA conference, which this year showcased the strong connection between laser technologies, modern industry, automation and emerging space applications. The event offered a pleasant and inspiring atmosphere, high participation and a programme filled with topics ranging from industrial manufacturing processes to laser technologies for orbital missions.
This year’s edition also naturally aligned with two European projects in which HiLASE is involved:
• LASER-PRO, focused on joint research and innovation strategies for advancing the laser industry, training the next generation of researchers, engineers and entrepreneurs, and supporting start-ups, spin offs and SMEs in adopting laser innovations.
• ATLAS, dedicated to laser and optical technologies for Earth Observation and space applications, supporting three pillars of space sustainability:
– from space – EO and climate monitoring,
– in space – space traffic management and active debris removal,
– for the space sector – circular economy enabled by in situ manufacturing and recycling.
A programme connecting production lines, optical labs and low Earth orbit
The first day opened with welcome remarks by Martina Řeháková and Jan Brajer, followed by:
- HiLASE Space Activity | HiLASE – Massimiliano Vasile
- Laser momentum transfer for propelling objects at LEO | HiLASE – Martin Divoký
These talks naturally introduced the theme of lasers for future space missions.
The programme continued with a set of presentations bridging industry and applied research:
- Industrial Fiber Lasers for Defense Applications | IPG – Haro Fritsche
- Lasers for Machining | MIT – Martin Moser
- LIBS | Lightigo – Pavel Pořízka/Martin Papula
- Simulations for CubeSat Design and Integration | HiLASE – Tomáš Tichý
- TVAC Compressor Systems | Streicher – Pavel Kubovec
- Positioning Systems | Hikade Technologies – David Chalupa
- From Pixel to Spectrum: Hyperspectral Cameras for a Detailed View of the World and the Universe | HiLASE – Karolina Macúchová
The afternoon block featured:
- Call Plan and ESA Priorities for the Upcoming Period | ESA – Emiliano Cordelli
These contributions linked laser, optical and satellite technologies with the broader context of Earth Observation and future ESA missions.
Panel Discussion – Advance Technology for Laser Applications in Space | HiLASE – Jan Vanda
The panel discussion opened an important conversation about the rapidly growing role of laser technologies in future space missions. The discussion highlighted how lasers are becoming critical tools both for satellite operations and for next-generation space systems. Topics ranged from laser momentum transfer whether by photon pressure or ablation, optical communication systems, remote laser beam powering, and other technologies key to the long-term sustainability of the space sector. Participants discussed the development of laser sources for space applications, in particular the requirements for cooling, maintenance, and operation, and the possible future development of attractive areas such as laser propulsion or laser 3D printing in space. Panelists agreed that these technologies are essential for the successful development of space activities, especially for future bases on the Moon and Mars, and that the ATLAS project of the HiLASE center, focused on the sustainability of the space sector, is essential in this effort.
The day ended at 19:00 with the Networking Dinner – Restaurant Podolka.
The second day opened with:
- Announcement of the Most Beautiful Coffee Plant Winner | HiLASE – Martina Řeháková
Followed by a diverse sequence of space and industrial presentations:
- Wireless Energy Infrastructures on the Moon | Celestia Energy – Matyáš Dvořák
- Optical Communication for Space | Crytur – Antonín Fajstavr
- Space Projects at the TOPTEC Centre | TOPTEC – Radek Melich
- Client-Tailored Laser Systems | SQS Vláknová optika – Zdeněk Zach
- COMSOL Multiphysics: Wave Optics & Ray Optics Simulations | HUMUSOFT – Matouš Lorenc
- The Future of Laser Cooling | SMC – Tomáš Drazdík
- Robots in the Service of Cleaning Lasers | Narran – Ondřej Schreiber
- Particle Tracking Camera: Particle identification and time-of-flight measurement | Advacam – Pavel Spíšek
Interesting was also the presentation by SQS Vláknová technika, which introduced a range of advanced solutions including 2D matrix fiber arrays, V-groove assemblies, hermetic fiber feedthroughs for vacuum and high-pressure environments, optical fiber bundles, high-power laser transmission cables, precision fiber optic patch cords, high-power laser diode drivers and custom precision mechanical components made of metals and glass.
Round Table – Industrial Applications of Fiber Lasers
The event concluded with the Round Table – Industrial Applications of Fiber Lasers, led by Roman Švábek (IPG Photonics).
The discussion addressed:
- stability, reliability and long-term laser performance,
- modular system requirements,
- laser safety in industrial environments,
- collaboration between research centres and companies in testing and development,
- the shortage of qualified laser technology specialists.
Event partners
The third edition of ROBUSTA was made possible thanks to the support of the main partners: IPG Photonics (Czech Republic) s.r.o. and MIT s.r.o.
Participants could also enjoy excellent specialty coffee at Crytur Café by CRYTUR, spol. s r.o.
We also thank all innovative companies who presented their technologies at partner booths – Argotech, Crytur, CzechInvest, IPG, JD Dvořák, Lightigo, MIT, Narran, SMC, STANDA, Streicher.
ROBUSTA 2025 confirmed that when lasers, industry, laser applications and space meet, a landscape full of innovation, new ideas and collaboration emerges.
Thank you to all participants, speakers and partners for two inspiring days.
We look forward to seeing you next year.
ROBUSTA 2026 will take place on 11–12 November in Dolní Břežany.
