ESTER: A versatile laser platform arising from a Czech industry-research collaboration

An article published in the recent Laserlab Forum highlighted the cooperation between HiLASE Centre, Lightigo and Crytur, which resulted in the development of the one-of-a-kind air-cooled, diode-pumped ESTER laser system.

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Bridging the gap between cutting-edge laser research and practical application is a key mission of the HiLASE Centre. In line with its mission slogan, “Superlasers for the real world,” HiLASE has teamed up with two Czech companies, Crytur and Lightigo, to co-develop ESTER, a new laser system tailored for industrial and scientific use.

The collaboration began when Lightigo, a producer of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) systems, identified the need for a robust laser source that was compatible with its technology. A four-year project titled “Bromi” (Breakthrough optoelectronic materials for instrumentation, supported by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic) was conceived, bringing together Lightigo with Crytur, opto-electronic solution specialists, and the HiLASE Centre, a state-of-the-art laser research facility. Using electronics developed by Lightigo, and mechanics, optical crystals and components by Crytur, HiLASE Centre researchers were able to develop ESTER, a unique air-cooled, diode-pumped laser system delivering nanosecond pulses of up to 70 mJ at 50 or 100 Hz repetition rate. Second and third harmonics are also available, providing additional versatility.

ESTER is an advanced solid-state Nd:YAG laser system designed for applications demanding precision. It offers outstanding beam quality and linear polarisation, and is air-cooled, suitable for use in a wide range of areas, including scientific research, industrial material processing, aerospace, defence systems and medical applications. Its robust design makes it an ideal solution for LIBS spectroscopy, LiDAR, target designation, or surgical procedures.

This successful partnership demonstrates how coordinated innovation across sectors can lead to competitive, real-world solutions grounded in advanced laser development.

For more information about ESTER and other cutting-edge laser technologies, do not hesitate to get in touch with us at bdd@hilase.cz.