The Department of Space Launcher Systems Analysis (Systemanalyse Raumtransport; SART) at the Institute of Space Systems is responsible for the design and analysis of launcher systems. Areas of research include, not only launcher design, but also the design and analysis of propulsion systems. Due to the possibility of this integrated consideration of vehicle and propulsionwithin one department, the Space Launcher Systems Analysis (SART) has a unique position in Germany.

The range of activities extends from independent preliminary designs to the critical analysis and assessment of third-party concepts. A key objective is the identification of suitable technologies to reduce the cost of access to space. All work is carried out with the help of modern, computer-aided scientific methods. This also includes the approach of concurrent engineering in the corresponding facilitiy (CEF) at the DLR site in Bremen.

All activities focus on future rocket-powered launchers, some of them reusable. Technical support in defining the German space program for ARIANE and VEGA is a priority. New space transportation and upper stage concepts are being developed in close cooperation with industry and with DLR institutes. In the German research program ASTRA, which was completed in 2005, the Space Transport Systems Analysis department was responsible for system management for the preliminary design of a reusable booster stage (LFBB) for Ariane 5. In addition to working on continuous improvements to the simulation methods, the department accompanies the development of new technologies at the system level.

New and innovative ideas are specifically developed in the department, which consciously leave the framework of conventional thinking. This is exemplified by the visionary concept of the ultra-fast SpaceLiner passenger transport, which will in future be able to cover long intercontinental distances in less than two hours. Another particularly notable example of innovative ideas is the patented process for docking and returning reusable booster stages by a towing aircraft ('in-air-capturing').

SART is actively participating in many EC-funded projects of Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe. The department coordinated the EU project CHATT, FALCon.