From Spectroscopy to Space Missions: Heyrovský Institute Opens Its Door 2026 Conference

On 22 September 2026, the Heyrovský Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences hosted the fifth edition of its scientific conference Heyrovský Institute Opens Its Door at the Heyrovský Institute in Prague. This year’s event was dedicated to Space Chemistry and Technology and brought together participants from academia and the industrial sector, including partner organisations collaborating with the Institute on space-related research and technological development.

In his opening remarks, Martin Hof, Director of the Heyrovský Institute, emphasized that the aim of the conference is to create and strengthen links between scientific research and industrial practice. He noted that the event has become a platform for presenting current scientific directions at the Institute, while also opening space for discussion on applications, technology transfer and future cooperation.

Space Chemistry from Fundamental Questions to Future Missions

The scientific programme reflected the growing importance of space research at the Institute. Bernd Abel, ERA Chair and Head of the Department of Space Chemistry and Technology at the Heyrovský Institute and Professor of Chemical Engineering at Leipzig University, presented technologies for Earth and space exploration and their connection to the search for life beyond Earth. His lecture linked physical chemistry, advanced analytical methods, high-resolution mass spectrometry and laboratory simulations of extraterrestrial environments.

The industrial perspective was represented by Petr Suchánek, CEO Space at ESC Aerospace, who focused on how scientific ideas and technological concepts are transformed into systems capable of operating in space. The programme also included a lecture by Petr Kubelík, Deputy Head of the Department of Spectroscopy at the Heyrovský Institute, who presented space-related research at the Institute, including spectroscopy for planetary environments, studies of laser-induced plasmas under simulated extraterrestrial conditions and analytical concepts relevant to future planetary missions.

Networking for Future Space Technologies

The conference also provided an important networking platform for researchers, industrial partners and representatives of organisations involved in space-related activities. Informal discussions focused on possible future cooperation, technology development and the role of scientific institutions in the rapidly growing space sector. By bringing together academic and industrial perspectives, Heyrovský Institute Opens Its Door 2026 highlighted the scientific potential of space chemistry and technology as well as its relevance for innovation, exploration and future mission-oriented technologies.