IREPA LASER shares its laser technology expertise with the International Space University
On 18 March 2026, IREPA LASER spoke at the International Space University (ISU) in Strasbourg, giving a lecture entitled: ‘Manufacturing space components using laser technologies – the entire life cycle’.
The session brought together around fifteen specialist students and several lecturers, offering a rich exchange on the practical integration of laser technologies and additive manufacturing in the space sector.
Practical laser applications in space
The talk covered the entire life cycle of a space component:
- Design and modelling
- Laser-based metal additive manufacturing
- Qualification and industrial testing
Concrete examples from projects carried out by IREPA LASER demonstrated the maturity of laser processes in demanding applications, highlighting the company's ability to meet the needs of the modern space industry.
Focus on the European ENLIGHTEN-ED project
Particular attention was given to the European ENLIGHTEN-ED project, in which IREPA LASER is a stakeholder. This programme aims to:
- Develop reusable rocket engines
- Combine additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence and innovative low-cost technologies
- Promote performance, competitiveness and sustainability in European space programmes
The ENLIGHTEN-ED project is funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe programme (grant agreement no. 101135156) and perfectly illustrates how laser technologies fit into the space programmes of the future.
An immersive tour of IREPA LASER's facilities
The lecture was followed by a tour of the facilities, allowing students to discover IREPA LASER's equipment and R&D environments. This immersion provided a hands-on educational complement, linking theoretical teaching with industrial practice.
Sharing expertise and training the next generation
This day fully reflects IREPA LASER's mission: passing on laser know-how, sharing industrial experience and building bridges between research, training and the space industry.
Many thanks to the ISU for hosting us and to the students for their commitment and the richness of the discussions.
Relive the ISU lecture with the students
Discover the highlights of our talk at the International Space University and hear from the participating students in our YouTube video.
>> Find out more about the ENLIGHTEN‑ED project, its objectives and innovations
