CSU's $150 Million Atlas Laser Facility Targeted to Open in 2026–27

Colorado State University is nearing completion of a $150 million Advanced Technology Lasers for Applications and Science (ATLAS) Facility that will position Fort Collins as a national hub for high-intensity laser research. The facility, built through a public-private partnership with German energy company Marvel Fusion, is targeted to begin operations around 2026–27.

The project positions Fort Collins and Northern Colorado as an emerging national hub for high-intensity laser science, advanced manufacturing, and fusion energy research—drawing researchers and federal investment to the region.

According to CSU's 2025 Impact Report, ATLAS is a roughly 71,000-square-foot complex designed to house at least three multi-petawatt lasers that can deliver up to 7 petawatts of power to a focal spot the width of a human hair.

ATLAS will complement CSU's existing Advanced Beam Laboratory on the Foothills Campus, focusing on inertial fusion energy, medical imaging, and national-security diagnostics. The facility is intended to accelerate workforce development in fusion and advanced manufacturing through hands-on training and research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.

CSU Chancellor Tony Frank said the project reflects the university's long-standing role in state development as Colorado marks 150 years of statehood. "This year, as we highlight achievements and document successes, we are also reflecting on that partnership, which still guides our work preparing students to serve as citizens, leaders and problem solvers," Frank said.

Federal research bolsters the project. The Department of Energy's LaserNetUS program and a separate DOE-funded inertial fusion science hub at CSU, with initial support of $16 million, complement the $150 million ATLAS partnership.

CSU and construction outlets have cited ATLAS as targeted for completion in 2026, while recruiting materials indicate the facility will open in 2027.