I do research into laser communications for aerospace

I became interested in optical communications during my studies. At DLR, I now work with this exciting technology and promote its use for aviation and space applications; this includes theoretical studies, laboratory experiments and large-scale measurement campaigns with aircraft- and satellite-borne systems. Project management is also an important aspect of this work. Recently, I conducted an experiment during which digital data was transferred to the ground from a fighter aircraft travelling at 850 kilometres per hour!

I enjoy my job…

… because it is an ideal combination of theory and practice. I develop measuring equipment, create laboratory experiments, analyse the resulting data and write technical publications. As a researcher I have a lot of freedom, but also great responsibility for what I do.