The scientific exploration of space in Europe is mainly driven by the ESA, which is currently focusing on the following priority topics: (1) Terrestrial and cosmic climate, (2) understanding gravity, (3) life in the universe, (4) cosmic rays and magnetism [1]. In order to advance these topics, support will be provided from theoretical research, e.g. in the field of modelling, to the realisation of space missions and the necessary technological development, to the scientific evaluation of data obtained in corresponding centres.
Space exploration and technology development are typically assigned to different application areas (e.g. earth observation, telecommunications & navigation, etc.). The German Space Agency DLR-RM sets its own priorities with specific topics (e.g. space robotics, exploration of the solar system and earth observation) [2]. The research focus of the faculty can be assigned to the topics "Space Science & Exploration" and "Microgravity Research", which are represented in the same or similar way in other space agencies (e.g. NASA, JAXA).
The faculty's space research cluster covers the topics of space physics, geophysics and space electronics with a focus on scientific research into the solar system, microgravity research and the technology of instrumentation and probes. Current research activities in the cluster range from the measurement of physical quantities and the modelling of physical processes in interplanetary space and on Earth to laboratory astrophysics, the implementation of space experiments and their data evaluation, and the implementation of electronics on space probes.