The Institute of Atmospheric Physics

From ground to the thermosphere
View through all layers of the Earth’s atmosphere, including aurora borealis as seen from the research aircraft HALO during a flight in the Arctic.

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IPA) at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) conducts research into the physics and chemistry of the global atmosphere from the ground up to 120 kilometres altitude. It was founded on 1 July 1962 and has about 240 employees (as of April 2024).

Living science - Working at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics

Living science - Working at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics

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Living science - Working at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics

Excellence in theory and practice

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics addresses relevant questions of atmospheric research, with reference to the programmes of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Institutes: Aeronautics, Space, Transport and Energy. The institute is an international leader in many areas and is unique in its breadth. The entire spectrum of methods is covered: From sensor development to atmospheric observations at different spatial scales (local to global) and from different platforms (for example aircraft, satellites), to analysis, theory development and numerical modelling. The institute thus works on both fundamental as well as application-oriented issues. Fundamental research is of great importance, as it is often only through long-term fundamental research that certain applications can be realised. Building on this, the institute is a competent partner for society, industry and politics in all questions relating to the atmosphere. The training of young scientists in the form of doctoral, master's and bachelor's theses or internships is an important part of its work.

Main research topics

  • Dynamics of the atmosphere
  • Climate-relevant trace gases
  • Atmospheric aerosol
  • Physics of clouds
  • Atmosphere and (air) transportation
  • Middle atmosphere

These topics are studied comprehensively by six departments, which play a leading role in many projects and programmes. The international and interdisciplinary networking within the institute, with other DLR institutes and with research groups worldwide is the basis for the successful work at the institute.

Departments

Earth System Modelling for Aeronautics, Space, Transport and Energy (ESM)

The department “Earth System Modelling” investigates the movement and chemical composition of atmospheric air and the associated energy and mass fluxes with the help of numerical simulation and appropriate observation data. The department has currently three main working areas: climate modelling, process modelling, and the information technology administration.

Earth System Model Evaluation and Analysis (EVA)

The department develops innovative methods for the evaluation and analysis of Earth system models in comparison to observations with the aim of better understand and project the Earth system. The evaluation and ensemble analysis of Earth system models is crucial for model improvements and a prerequisite for reliable climate projections of the 21st century to be used as guide-lines for climate policy.

Atmospheric Trace Species (ATS)

Trace gases and aerosols play a key role in atmospheric physics and chemistry via homogeneous and heterogeneous chemical reactions, phase transitions, and interaction with radiation. The department investigates the distribution of trace species in the atmosphere and the processes involved.

Cloud Physics (WOL)

Despite their relevance for climate, some physical processes on clouds and their effects on the composition of the atmosphere and its radiation budget remain unresolved. Large uncertainties in today’s climate assessments are linked to the comprehensive characterization of clouds, their variability and their impact on the humidity and trace gas distribution of the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS).

Applied Meteorology (MET)

The department's research focuses on thunderstorms, wake vortices, noise, wind energy, gravity waves and turbulence. It is aiming at the understanding and prediction of the relevant dynamical processes in the atmospheric boundary layer and in the upper atmosphere on one hand.

Lidar (LID)

The Lidar department develops ground-based, airborne and spaceborne lidar systems and applies them for active remote sensing of key meteorological parameters and atmospheric trace gases to facilitate research in weather and climate.

Contact

Prof. Dr. Markus Rapp

Director
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Atmospheric Physics
Münchener Straße 20, 82234 Oberpfaffenhofen