Featured topics

Here, DLR presents a wide range of topics in a generally understandable, clear and factual manner; topics that are relevant to society, the economy and politics, both on a national and international level. The Featured topics section presents facts and research topics comprehensively and through various multimedia formats, and illustrates the significance of current projects and missions in their respective contexts.

Driving innovation in research, technology and practical applications

Small satellites – compact all-rounders in space

They are lightweight, flexible, quickly deployable – and they are fundamentally changing spaceflight: small satellites are far more than miniature versions of their large orbital counterparts.

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Re-entry and landing technologies

Reusable space transport

In the history of space travel to date, rockets have traditionally been one-way products. The first step towards making space travel systems reusable was NASA's Space Shuttle programme. The shuttle had wings and did not need to reignite its engines when entering the atmosphere or landing.

How DLR deals with space debris

Space debris

Space debris, or space junk, refers to all human-made objects in space that no longer serve any purpose, such as decommissioned satellites, rocket bodies or small components of these such as paint and varnish particles, screws, nuts and other small parts. The amount of space debris has increased significantly over the decades because of the space activities of various nations.

Earlier detection, better response

Fighting wildfires with cutting-edge technology

Wildfires pose a serious threat to nature, the economy and society worldwide. They destroy forests, endanger public safety, threaten biodiversity and cause immense ecological and economic damage.

Towards sustainable aviation

Climate-compatible aviation

The objective has now been set in Germany and Europe, with the aim of achieving climate compatibility in the economy and society. This is set out in the European Commission's Clean Industrial Deal, which reconciles decarbonisation with EU competitiveness.

At the edge of the possible

Quantum technologies

Where classical technologies reach their limits, quantum technologies open up new possibilities for research, industry and business. New sensors, simulators, communication networks and computers with previously unattainable performance are made possible through the harnessing of quantum mechanical effects.

Test Bed Lower Saxony for automated and connected mobility

Automated and networked vehicles contribute towards relieving traffic congestion, reducing the number of accidents and increasing comfort levels during road journeys. The energy efficiency of road transport can also be improved in this way, while negative environmental impacts can be mitigated. The test field was put into operation in January 2020.

From design to the safe integration in the airspace

Uncrewed Aircraft Systems

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are already being applied in various ways – supplying poorly connected areas with medicines, providing disaster relief, in agricultural applications and supporting the transport of manufacturing parts between industrial sites.

Technologies for the energy transition

Wind energy research

Wind power is already the second most important energy source in Germany. It makes the largest contribution to electricity generation from renewable resources.