German Aerospace Center

Moving into the future

What useful information can satellites give us for monitoring the environment and disaster management? What can we discover about the origins and development of the universe? How can we generate power in a way that is both efficient and environmentally friendly? What concepts and technologies can we use to make land, sea and air travel compatible with the environment? These are just some of the questions that scientists at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cologne are trying to answer. DLR pools federal and state funding and resources for research and development in the fields of air and space travel, transport and selected energy sectors. As Germany’s national space agency, DLR is responsible for realizing the German government’s space agenda.

Research and development at DLR focuses on crucial technologies for the 21^st century. Its role encompassing everything from defining suitable sensors to data reception and use, the DLR space research programme contributes significantly to the ongoing development of European satellite launcher systems and itself conducts earth observation of the Earth using satellites. Other important challenges for the future include the development of quieter, low-emission aircraft that still offer high performance and of new propulsion and combustion technologies, and maximizing the use and efficiency of solar energy. The center is at the vanguard of R&D work in new key technologies such as adaptronics, mechatronics and intelligent materials, and advances the use of simulation processes and the further development of software and data management.

With state-of-the-art testing facilities and research aircraft at its disposal, DLR is able to act as a driving force in joint European efforts to tackle these challenges.

Technological basis for economic competitiveness

DLR is helping to build and maintain a technological basis that will keep Germany competitive at an international level. It works in close cooperation with industry, allowing the results of its research to be transferred into practical applications quickly; its partnerships with innovative medium-sized businesses are particularly important.

DLR has 8,000 employees in 16 locations, including Cologne (head office), Berlin, Bremen, Braunschweig, Göttingen, Lampoldshausen, Oberpfaffenhofen and Stuttgart. DLR is involved in several international testing sites and has liaison offices in Brussels, Paris and Washington.

German Aerospace Center (DLR)