The official kick-off meeting of the ATLAS project (led by coordinator Lukáš Masopust) took place at the HiLASE Centre on the 13th of February 2025. The event marked the beginning of a bold new initiative to develop laser-based solutions for improving space traffic management, addressing space debris, or promoting a circular space economy.
The event brought together a network of experts and stakeholders who delved into the project’s scientific agenda and discussed its strategic implementation.
One of the esteemed guests in attendance was Massimiliano Vasile, who will lead a newly formed research group within the HiLASE Centre as part of the ATLAS project. Under his guidance, this innovative team will focus on advancing space-borne laser applications, enhancing the Centre’s scientific excellence and boosting its national and international visibility. This new group will play a crucial role in positioning Czechia at the forefront of space laser technology.
The programme also featured a talk by Agne Dobranskyte-Niskota, REA project officer who will be overseeing ATLAS. In her presentation, she outlined her role and spoke of project lifecycle, reporting, financial aspects, communication and more.
With ATLAS, the HiLASE Centre is taking a significant step forward in shaping the future of space sustainability and innovation across three key areas:
- sustainability from space, by utilizing Earth Observation for climate and green energy solutions;
- sustainability in space, by addressing space traffic and debris;
- sustainability of the space sector, by establishing a circular space economy through in-situ resource use, manufacturing, and recycling, reducing reliance on Earth-based resources.
“At HiLASE, we have always dared to push the boundaries of laser technology, and now we are taking a bold step beyond Mother Earth,” comments HiLASE Centre Head Tomáš Mocek. “With ATLAS, we are venturing into space, harnessing the power of Czech lasers to make space exploration, settlement, and sustainability a reality. The future belongs to those who dream big and have the courage to turn those dreams into action – and that is exactly what we, HiLASIANS, are doing. Onward to Space!“
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
