In collaboration with INFN section of Ferrara and IASF-INAF (now OAS-INAF ) of Bologna, Frontera led the development of the first Laue lens prototype to focus high energy X-rays. The mounting technique of such lens is the subject of an Italian Space Agency (ASI)-University of Ferrara patent. The development of Laue lenses for astrophysical applications is continuing and a new concept of Laue lens is the key instrument of a mission concept, ASTENA, proposed for the ESA long-term program “Voyage 2050".