  We analyze how a star network topology shapes the dynamics of coupled
CO\textsubscript{2} lasers with an intracavity electro-optic modulator that
exhibit bistability. Such a network supports spreading and stationary
activation patterns. In particular, we observe an activation spreading where
the activated periphery turns on the center element, an activated center which
drifts the periphery into the active region and an activation of the whole
system from the passive into the active region. Pinned activation, namely
activation localized only in the center or the peripheral elements is also
found. Similar dynamical behavior has been observed recently in complex
networks of coupled bistable chemical reactions. The current work aims at
revealing those phenomena in laser arrays, giving emphasis on the essential
role of the coupling structure in fashioning the overall dynamics.

Chaotic Dynamics;Optics