Our main work focus lies in the development and definition of new camera sensors, their verification and validation and in the processing of data products for novel practice-oriented applications. In addition diverse research and development is performed in close cooperation with other DLR departments, as well as pilot projects run in cooperation with international partners from industry, research institutions and universities. Those projects range from joint basic research through planning and execution of flight campaigns to data processing and analysis based on aerial or satellite images. The goals and main emphasis of our department competence is reflected in the following group structure:
Sensors
This group has two main tasks to perform: firstly the definition and selection of sensors and sensor combinations for remote sensing applications, and secondly the provision of data from different sensors and sensor combinations for experimental analysis. Our expertise concentrates on the mechanical and electrical integration of this technology in aircraft for measurement purposes.
Photogrammetry
The photogrammetric group deals on the one hand with the validation of experimental sensor configurations as well as cue combinations and the automatized derivation of spatial orientation of experimental sensor configuration. Particular importance is placed on the fusion of various data sets and the creation of geographic information.
Informatics
The informatics group deals primarily with the development of algorithms and tools to operate & activate our sensor systems and to evaluate data imagery. We support the entire process chain ranging from camera operating software through the visualization of 3D data. In addition we provide applications and services of optical systems for micro UAVs in order to aid and support solutions for accidents and major catastrophes.
Application and Geographic Information
This group’s main task is the visualization and evaluation of generated data products. The final stage of the department’s hierarchic process chain is the interpretation, method development and further GIS analyses.
Modular Airborne Camera Systems
The Modular Airborne Camera System is a DLR-developed family of highly specialized aerial cameras. It’s a result of long lasting application based research to produce cutting-edge photogrammetric products. Learn more about MACS and possible data products here.