“Where ideas lift off” is the phrase that welcomes visitors to the new Aerospace Engineering Laboratory at Instituto Superior Técnico, which was inaugurated on 24 September at Alameda campus. The inscription displayed in metallic letters on a dark blue wall coincided with the moment when students, professors, researchers, and representatives from TEKEVER – a member of the Técnico Partner Network – crossed the threshold of the space for the first time after the symbolic cutting of the ribbon.

Spanning an area of 200 square meters, the laboratory features specialised spaces that cover the entire aerospace development cycle, from the manufacturing and testing of components to the integration of micro-satellites. During the inauguration, some students expressed their excitement about the equipment, which would soon be part of practical experiments and advanced research.

“We aim to promote a collaborative environment and enhance the practical component of training”, says Fernando Lau, a professor at Técnico. “It is an essential resource for Aerospace Engineering training at Técnico and also boosts the extracurricular activities of the students’ organisations”.

Rogério Colaço, the president of Técnico, highlighted the importance of the new laboratory in the context of the School’s mission: “This laboratory embodies what has always guided Técnico: knowledge is know-how! But it is also a promise – to keep the School open to society, where students work alongside industry, researchers tackle real challenges and solutions reach the market”.

The institutional perspective was also reinforced by Pedro Amaral, the vice-president of Técnico for Corporate Interface, Innovation and Entrepreneurship: “This inauguration showcases the enormous strength of our alumni and our mission to provide a comprehensive experience for students. Everyone recognises the extraordinary role of Técnico and the quality we strive to deliver. There is a lot of talent and a great capacity for developing innovative and unique ideas”.

Ricardo Mendes, CEO of TEKEVER and Técnico alumnus (Computer Science and Engineering), highlighted the importance of this collaboration. “It is a pleasure to be here, after two years, and witness this project come to fruition. It not only demonstrates the School’s capability for innovation but also underscores the importance of its relationship with companies like TEKEVER, which find talent and ideas here that can transform the industry”.

“It is open to any Técnico student”, said Fernando Lau to the community. “More than a teaching support infrastructure, this laboratory is an open space for the School’s community, promoting innovation, technological development, and link with industry, which reinforces Técnico’s role as a national and international benchmark in the field of Aerospace Engineering”.

Photo gallery.