Tescan history

From Tesla to Tescan

Tescan was born in Brno, Czech Republic, where a legacy of electron optics was already part of the city’s DNA. Founded by former engineers from the Tesla factories (one of the world’s first leading electron microscope hubs), the mission was simple but ambitious. Build world-class imaging systems that were easier to use and more accessible to the researchers who needed them most. 

Early innovations like PROXIMA (our integrated optical navigation system) and the VEGA variable pressure SEM set a tone we have kept ever since - practical, intuitive, and driven by real research needs. 
At the same time, Orsay Physics was doing something similar in France. Since 1989, they had been pushing the boundaries of focused ion beam (FIB) technology, developing custom solutions for microelectronics and materials science. Like Tescan, they believed tools should fit the people using them and they knew real innovation happens at the intersection of science and usability.

The gate to east

Tescan is stepping into the Chinese market and establishing Tescan China.

The Merger  

After two decades on parallel paths, Tescan and Orsay came together to form Tescan Orsay Holding. This was more than a merger; it was a meeting of minds. . Tescan brought SEM systems known for their flexibility and ease of use, while Orsay contributed FIB expertise and precision engineering. Together, this team could offer integrated platforms across SEM, FIB-SEM, and microanalysis, united by a shared philosophy: make the complex feel simple.

Growing the Toolkit  

As our capabilities expanded, so did our team. The acquisition of XRE brought micro-CT to our portfolio, establishing Tescan micro-CT in Ghent. The integration of AppFive, now Tescan Tempe, added advanced system control and software innovation. These were also more than acquisitions, creating partnerships built on complementary strengths. Each one made our solutions broader, stronger, and better aligned with the needs of modern research.

During the same period, we expanded our global footprint by establishing Tescan Germany and Tescan Brazil, strengthening our presence in Europe and South America. 

A New Chapter for Growth and Innovation 

In 2022, Tescan achieved two major milestones that shaped its future direction. The launch of Tescan TENSOR™, the first 4D-STEM system developed from the ground up for a new level of performance and user experience, reinforced the company’s reputation for innovation in advanced analytical instrumentation. Later that year, global investment firm Carlyle agreed to acquire a majority stake in Tescan, signaling strong confidence in the company’s technology, global position, and long-term growth potential. Together, these milestones marked an important step in Tescan’s evolution, combining breakthrough innovation with strategic backing for further expansion.

Simplifying Structure, Expanding Focus

In 2023, Tescan simplified its corporate structure by merging Tescan Orsay Holding, Tescan Brno, and two dormant entities into Tescan Group. The move followed earlier shareholder changes and supported more efficient operations, closer alignment across the group, and long-term sustainable growth.
 
The year also marked continued progress in technology and market focus. Tescan introduced a new generation of Tescan CLARA™ 2, designed to improve automation, usability, and time to data for demanding workflows in materials science and battery research. At the same time, Tescan increased its focus on advanced packaging and batteries as important application areas for future growth. 

Tescan TENSOR™ received an R&D 100 Award in the Analytical/Test category, marking Tescan’s second consecutive R&D 100 recognition after Tescan UniTOM® HR.

Driving Innovation in Microscopy Workflows

In 2024, Tescan continued to expand its capabilities in advanced microscopy and workflow integration. The company introduced Tescan AMBER™ 2 and Tescan AMBER X™ 2, broadening its next-generation FIB-SEM portfolio for demanding materials science and semiconductor applications. Tescan also launched TEM AutoPrep Pro software, introduced ion beam integration, and expanded its portfolio with Aura™ Gentle, supporting more controlled and reliable sample preparation workflows. In the same year, Tescan strengthened its international presence with Tescan Korea, marking another step in the company’s global growth. 

Expanding Our Global Reach

In 2025, Tescan achieved several important milestones that strengthened our technology portfolio and global market presence. The acquisition of EXpressLO LLC enhanced our specimen preparation and handling capabilities, especially in advanced FIB lift-out, cryogenic applications, and environmentally sensitive workflows. We also expanded our semiconductor solutions portfolio with the introduction of Tescan FemtoChisel™, a next-generation femtosecond laser platform delivering faster, more precise, and more reproducible sample preparation. Complementing these developments, we unveiled a new brand identity that reflects Tescan’s continued evolution and ambition as a global innovator in scientific instrumentation.

At the same time, our growth in the Asia-Pacific region accelerated through the acquisition of Tescan Korea and DML, longtime collaborators with a strong presence in the Korean semiconductor and academic sectors. Their integration brought more than 500 installed systems and decades of market experience under one roof, further solidifying our leadership in the region. That momentum continued with the launch of new subsidiaries in Taiwan and Singapore, bringing us closer to customers, strengthening long-term partnerships, and supporting the next generation of research and innovation across Asia.