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The Space Operations and Astronaut Training institution

The Space Operations and Astronaut Training institution is the central institution for spaceflight operations in Germany with locations in Cologne, Oberpfaffenhofen, Weilheim and Berlin. This responsibility includes satellite missions for Earth observation, science and communication missions as well as for the exploration of the solar system and human spaceflight missions. Furthermore, astronauts are trained, space experiments are prepared and sounding rockets are developed and launched from sites around the world. Eventually, DLR works on new technologies, such as on-orbit-servicing in order to master even the most difficult space projects of the future.

In close cooperation with other DLR institutes and together with public and industrial partners, DLR Space Operations plays a major role for spaceflight in Europe. Here, groundbreaking space projects are realised and new ideas for spaceflight of tomorrow are developed. As a versatile interface between technology development, operations and utilisation, DLR Space Operations serves as an important venue for everyone involved in spaceflight and the general public. This is where groundbreaking projects are realised and new ideas for shaping the future of space flight are developed.

Areas covered

German Space Operations Center (GSOC) and Mobile Rocket Base (MORABA) at Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich
ZDBS (Zentralstation des Deutschen Bodensystems) in Weilheim, Bavaria
MUSC (Microgravity User Support Center), the EAC (European Astronaut Center) and the LCC (Lander Control Center) in Cologne

Operational tasks

Since 1969 the German Space Operations Center (GSOC) has been successfully operating space flight missions. During more than 60 missions with different applications DLR demonstrated its competence in operating spacecraft of all kinds. At spacecraft operations, the upmost security and quality requirements exist. DLR Space Operations is certified as ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 45001 compliant.