The international “Drones & Robotics Workshop” held from June 10 to 12, 2025, at Park Innovaare in Villigen impressively demonstrated the value that intelligent machines are likely to create in the future, even in demanding environments. The international symposium was organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in cooperation with the Leibstadt nuclear power plant, Axpo, and the EPRI research institute.
Impressive live demonstrations alternated with experience reports and innovative models for the future. In a special aviary, drones demonstrated their capabilities for radiation-resistant data collection and 3D mapping in real time. Robot dogs navigated through challenging courses that simulated typical obstacles in nuclear facilities. In a specially constructed water tank, underwater robots demonstrated inspection procedures such as those used to check fuel element storage pools.
The event offered a unique platform for actively shaping the future of robotics in safety-critical infrastructures – in a well-founded, practical, and forward-looking manner. The venue at Park Innovaare highlighted the value of networking between cutting-edge research, technology-oriented companies, and implementation-oriented nuclear power plants in an international environment.
