Space

The number of satellites and space debris in Earth’s orbit is growing steadily. It is therefore becoming increasingly important for operators of space systems to accurately track objects in space, reliably predict their trajectories, and detect potential collisions at an early stage. To this end, Fraunhofer FHR develops radar and sensor technologies, thereby making important contributions to European and international space surveillance programs. High-performance antenna systems, innovative radar methods, and modern signal processing enable the detection of even small space objects and their precise trajectory tracking.

The resulting situational awareness of Earth’s orbit enables satellite operators and space agencies to conduct a thorough risk assessment. Operators benefit from improved orbital analyses, reliable collision warnings, and data-driven decision-making for mission planning and satellite operations. Together with space agencies and international research partners, Fraunhofer FHR develops technologies for future space surveillance systems. Leverage our expertise in radar and sensor technologies to develop new solutions for safe and sustainable space infrastructure.

In addition to detecting objects in space, the detailed analysis of satellites and space systems is becoming increasingly important. Radar-based space reconnaissance makes it possible to precisely examine the structure, motion, and technical characteristics of objects in orbit. To this end, Fraunhofer FHR is developing high-resolution radar techniques as well as innovative methods of data analysis. These technologies enable detailed radar imaging of satellites and provide valuable information about their shape, rotation, and structural properties.

Such analyses help space agencies and satellite operators better understand the state of orbital systems and make informed assessments of activities in space. Modern signal processing and data-driven methods provide new insights into dynamics in Earth orbit and support risk analysis and mission planning. Fraunhofer FHR provides measurement campaigns, analytical services, and technological development expertise for this purpose- to ensure a robust basis for decision-making in safety-critical applications.

Comprehensive space situational awareness requires high-performance sensors, intelligent data analysis, and robust system architectures. Only by combining these technologies can reliable situational pictures of space be generated and risks to satellite missions be reliably assessed. Fraunhofer FHR develops key technologies for future space situational awareness systems. These include innovative radar methods for detecting small objects, modern antenna systems, and powerful algorithms for processing large amounts of sensor data.

These technologies are complemented by simulation-based methods and automated analysis procedures that efficiently evaluate sensor data and integrate it into consistent space situational awareness (SSA) pictures. This forms the technological foundation for future European SSA infrastructures and enables significantly improved transparency regarding orbital activities. Space agencies, industrial companies, and satellite system operators benefit from new capabilities for monitoring and assessing events in space. Talk to our experts if you’d like to develop innovative technologies for space surveillance, space security, and space situational awareness.