March 27, 2025 | Quantum technologies – made by DLR
DLR at Hannover Messe 2025
BECCAL experiment (Bose-Einstein Condensate and Cold Atom Laboratory)
BECCAL will enable experiments with ultracold atoms and Bose-Einstein condensates to be carried out on board the International Space Station ISS. It will pave the way for fundamental research and the development of future quantum sensors based on matter-wave interferometry.
DLR is designing new systems and developing components for satellite-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). This involves transmitting quantum states from low Earth orbit to the ground. The aim is to develop and demonstrate technologies for globally tamper-proof communication.
Demonstrator for more efficient air conditioning in fuel cell vehicles
Many hydrogen applications rely on compressed hydrogen. The energy used to compress the hydrogen is often not reused. DLR is therefore developing a technology to harness this energy – for example, using heat pumps or cooling systems – and thereby increase the overall efficiency of the process.
At Hannover Messe 2025, the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) will showcase cutting-edge technologies, innovations and successful transfer projects (Hall 2, Stand A48). Under the banner 'At the edge of the possible – quantum technologies made by DLR' and in celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, the spotlight will be on DLR projects and missions that demonstrate how quantum technologies are opening up new horizons in research, industry and the economy. Exhibits will highlight, for example, the development of pioneering quantum sensors and satellite-based quantum encryption for secure communication. Additional topics include work on compact laser-optical clocks for satellite navigation systems and miniaturised, space-qualified quantum memories for a satellite-based quantum network.
At Hannover Messe 2025, DLR will showcase developments, projects and missions that strengthen and future-proof our industry, economy and public sector. As Germany’s research and development organisation, we are accompanying and supporting industry and the economy in times of global challenge. Together with our partners, we are working to secure an independent leading position for Germany and Europe, and to link economic success with sustainable development," emphasises Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chair of the DLR Executive Board. "Quantum technologies are at the heart of this year's DLR presence: over the coming decades, they will be a technological gamechanger. Through our interdisciplinary research and the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative, we are building a unique ecosystem to ensure Germany's success in quantum science and applications.
DLR will also be presenting its work at the stands of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) (Hall 2, Stand A18 and Hall 8, Stand D26). DLR projects in the fields of hydrogen and fuel cells will be on show at the 'Hydrogen + Fuel Cells EUROPE' exhibition (Hall 13, Stand B36).
All information on exhibits, events and talks by DLR experts can be found on the dedicated Hannover Messe web page.
Understanding quantum – live podcasts and stage show
In collaboration with DLR, podcaster and presenter Daniel Finger will present exciting topics from the wide-ranging world of DLR. On 1 April 2025, he will record two new episodes of the podcast series 'From Earth to Space' live at the DLR stand (Hall 2, Stand A48). Visitors are invited to stop by and listen as DLR researchers share insights into ongoing projects, explain their work and place it in context – all revolving around the quantum topic. Live recordings from Hannover Messe will be available for playback on many podcast platforms after the event.
Quantum – what is it, actually? On Space Day at Hannover Messe, 2 April 2025, DLR will explore this question during a live stage show on the Tech Transfer Conference Stage (Hall 2, Stand B02), starting at 9:45 a.m. In short presentations, interviews and panel discussions, DLR experts and German ESA astronaut Gerhard Thiele will give an overview of how quantum technologies are already proving useful – for instance, in high-tech sensors, tamper-proof communication, ultra-precise navigation, spaceflight and new types of computers with previously unimaginable capabilities.
Quantum technologies – harnessing potential, securing a leading position
DLR is researching and developing quantum technologies at more than a dozen institutes across Germany, drawing on its unique expertise in the fields of aeronautics, space, energy, transport and security. DLR's goal is to harness quantum-mechanical phenomena, develop real-world technologies, identify users and support commercialisation. A wide range of exhibits will explain and illustrate this scientific work.
DLR's Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI) will also be there at the main DLR stand. This initiative is creating a strong quantum computing ecosystem, accelerating technology transfer between industry and research, supporting cooperation and creating an attractive environment for skilled professionals. In around 80 projects, DLR is working with start-ups and industry to develop quantum computers, essential technologies and practical applications – bringing quantum computing into practical use.
Start-up for the heat transition, aerogels as novel materials, and AI in rail infrastructure
The DLR spin-off 'heatbrAIn' will also be at Hannover Messe. This young company shows how artificial intelligence and geodata analysis can provide a data foundation to simplify municipal heat planning. Feasibility studies and transformation plans can also be created more quickly and effectively using the start-up’s expertise. In addition, DLR will present its research into aerogels: extremely light and porous carbon-based materials with a unique nanostructure. They are suitable for many applications where conventional materials reach their limits – for example, they could make battery systems more efficient and durable. From its transport research, DLR will also show how artificial intelligence can be used to reliably detect cracks in railway sleepers at an early stage – contributing to more reliable rail infrastructure in the future.
Managed Automated Driving, sensitive robotics and data ecosystems for mobility and Industry 4.0
Managed Automated Driving (MAD) makes comprehensive use of digital infrastructure for automated driving. This includes sensors on streetlights or buildings, for instance, which help detect pedestrians and cyclists more effectively. This facilitates the introduction of automated driving in complex urban environments. At the stand of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) (Hall 2, Stand A18), DLR will provide insights into its research in this area. The DLR spin-off Versatile Robotics will also be at this stand. With its specialised control software, it gives robots a sense of touch, making their movements more precise, stable and safe – especially important when humans and machines work together closely and efficiently.
At the BMWK's 'Plattform Industrie 4.0' stand (Hall 8, Stand D26), DLR will showcase the advanced decentralised data integration system BASE-X. This system seamlessly connects existing data and service infrastructures with other open data ecosystems. It greatly facilitates the efficient exchange and shared use of data, while reducing dependency on large private cloud providers. DLR will also present the learning and knowledge platform Transfer-X. An interactive game will illustrate the advantages of a shared data ecosystem. Transfer-X is aimed primarily at SMEs in the automotive and data space sectors.
'Hydrogen + Fuel Cells EUROPE' exhibition
Another DLR stand at the 'Hydrogen + Fuel Cells EUROPE' exhibition area (Hall 12, Stand B36) will showcase current projects from DLR energy research on the topic of hydrogen. The focus will be on components for hydrogen infrastructure as well as for fuel cells and electrolysers.
Jobs at DLR – Shaping the world of tomorrow
Develop technologies and shape the future: at its main stand, DLR’s personnel marketing team will provide information on jobs and career opportunities. Visitors can browse current job openings and get information on training opportunities at school and university levels. Becoming a co-founder of a DLR start-up team is also a way into the world of technology. DLR is currently looking for support in areas such as technical management, business development and marketing and sales.
