Space Transportation
Our research and development activities in the field of space transport aim to improve existing launch vehicles while paving the way for novel systems of the future. This enables us to remain competitive in the international markets for both private and commercial launch providers. This ensures the German national government, the European Union (EU) and the European Space Agency (ESA) maintain independent, scientifically and economically viable access to space into the future.
Key contributions are the investigation and development of new technologies and operating scenarios, with a particular focus on reusable launch systems throughout their full product lifecycle.
Major fields of research
- Materials research: ceramic materials, lightweight structures, new and innovative manufacturing methods
- Propulsion systems and propellants: solid/hybrid propulsion, new (green) liquid propellant alternatives
- Aerothermodynamics: attitude control, thermal management during atmospheric re-entry
- Numerical simulation: simulation-based design verification, use of Artificial Intelligence, integration of new and extended IT infrastructure and methodologies
- Design, operation and management of test facilities: validation of simulation results using experimental data