Department of Active Optical Systems

In addition to the operation of the ground stations, the effect of laser radiation on space debris materials and the corresponding momentum transfer is evaluated in simulations in order to use these laser-based processes to increase safety in orbit in the future. An extremely compact and therefore transportable ground station for locating co-operative satellites (i.e. equipped with retroreflectors) is also available as a Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) system. The aim of tracking objects in airspace is to detect, locate and defend against small unmanned aircraft (UAS, Unmanned Aircraft System). A mobile, trailer-based research platform is available for this purpose. The AOS department also has expertise in the qualification of optical components that are used under space conditions, such as corner cube reflectors (CCRs). In accordance with ISO standards, dielectric laser optics are subjected to standardised laser stress tests in a clean room and investigations into laser-induced contamination are carried out.