Space

Space research in Germany means R&D to provide direct benefits to the public and, simultaneously, inspiration for the future. In the Helmholtz programme Space, scientists observe the system earth, its processes and changes, they explore the solar system, they research scientific connections as regards life and materials under the special conditions of space, yet they also further develop space travel, work on technical solutions for satellite communication and navigation as well as for transporters and landing devices and prepare concrete missions. All this includes collaboration with partners from industry, research institutions, universities, authorities and agencies, as well as public institutions.

Hence, the Helmholtz Space Programme is a central link between all the stakeholders and players contributing to space research. In the next couple of years, earth observation will concentrate on research and development for innovative radar, lidar and optical technologies, modern analytical processes and the development of high-quality products.

In satellite communication, the wider use of optical connections up to the creation of a satellite-based terrabits/s-transport- and distribution network are to be researched and developed. In the field of satellite navigation, the focus is on creating Galileo and developing new applications for it.

In exploring space, the next years will see the execution and preparation of missions to other celestial bodies within the solar system, with a special focus on the search for life and the question regarding habitability of planets.

In research under space conditions, the entire range of infrastructures – parabolic flights, sounding rockets and in particular the International Space Station – is being used to broaden the insights into the science of life and materials or, respectively, verify these.

To ensure economic space transport, key technologies are researched and technologies for orbital and planetary missions are developed and validated. In space robotics, both technologies for the “On-Orbit-Servicing” are prepared and robotic systems for exploration missions are designed.