If Metal & Stars is installed, then the tech requires packs that don't fit into any lab, causing an error on startup.

Ah, this is a good bug report, I will install Metal & Stars and see how I can properly eliminate the science packs that don't fit

I have added some logic to blacklist the special science packs from Metal & Stars, please give the 1.0.4 release a try and let me know if anything else breaks!

I shall do so when I next play

Okay, I just checked and it appears that Linox Data Cards are also being requested
121.813 Error ModManager.cpp:1764: Technology combat-spidertron-tech: there is no lab that will accept all of the science packs this technology requires. Science packs: automation-science-pack, logistic-science-pack, military-science-pack, chemical-science-pack, production-science-pack, utility-science-pack, space-science-pack, thermodynamic-science-pack, alchemical-science, metallurgic-science-pack, agricultural-science-pack, pelagos-science-pack, electrochemical-science-pack, electromagnetic-science-pack, gas-manipulation-science-pack, promethium-science-pack, linox-item_lava-data-card, linox-item_rare-earth-data-card, iridescent-science-pack, polychromatic-science-pack, void-science-pack, esoteric-science-pack, celestial-science-pack
Out of that list I don't think any should cause a problem besides the Linox data cards, though I am not 100% certain about the Voidcraft or Iridescent Industries packs. The thermodynamic science pack from Dea Dia should be fine, too.

Okay, after disabling Linox and checking again, it appeared that Cerys's Reverse-Engineered Science Pack is also a requirement that cannot be fulfilled, since that pack can only be used in a Lab unique to Cerys.
After disabling both I was able to load in without further issues.
I also want to note that your mod currently requires the usage of some of Shattered Planet's packs, which can only be made after reaching it. You may ignore this if it was intentional, as it does not cause any issues.

Ah, yes. The mod makes use of a science pack propagation system (so all higher tiers inherit the science packs of the lower tiers, and also inherit the science packs of the prerequisite technologies).
I'm thinking of using a different system, but for now I can blacklist these science packs, just a moment

I've blacklisted the relevant science packs and technologies, have fun with your modpack!