Space. Precision Optics for Use in Space.

At our location in Berlin, we develop and produce optic modules for Laser Communication Terminals (LCT) that are decisive in driving the "optical fiber revolution" in space.

The LCT transmits large volumes of data (1.8 Gbit/s) between satellites in low-earth orbit (LEO) and in geostationary orbit (GEO). This means that satellite data can be provided very quickly for evaluation on the Earth (details here in Data Highway in Space). This technology also is foremost in the area of energy efficiency and security (insensitive to noise, tap-proof).

Our contribution

• Customer-specific design and development of high-performance systems
• Wide-spread use of industrial development tools for competitive product design
• Efficient technologies and state-of-the-art processes for the highest system performance
• Experience dealing with the demanding standards and provisions with regards to the European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS) for minimal risk in development and assembly
• Production of precision mirrors for extraordinary specific applications (High-Performance Mirror for Space Applications)
• Complete product implementation, from concept to volume production including qualification and module verification

The primary task of modern satellites is to provide civilian Earth monitoring to research environmental impacts on the Earth. Our contribution to this area consists of ultra-precise prisms made from various materials (with precision greater than λ/5) for environmental satellites in EnMAP (Environmental Mapping and Analysis Program).

EnMAP is a satellite program that records hyperspectral image data of the Earth’s surface. The spectrometer covers the wavelength range from 420 nm to 2450 nm with ca. 230 spectral channels for the visible and infrared spectral range. The project is supported by German Aerospace Center (DLR) with funds from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi).

Our contribution

• Product-specific technologies and production processes for the most demanding optic components
• Design and implementation of complex devices to produce and assemble ambitious products
• Superfinishing and highly precise measurement technology for small and light-weight components all the way to large optics (2 m diameter/length) with unique surface precision
• Application of and compliance with industrial standards in quality management and project implementation as well as production-oriented tools for high efficiency
• Competitive use of modern control processes in order to predictably provide complex products on time

With our know-how of anodic bonding of SiSiC and glass, we possess special manufacturing expertise when manufacturing space mirrors of many different dimensions and contours.

With these ultra-precise mirrors (High-Performance Mirror for Space Applications) that must master both extremely harsh environmental effects as well as extraordinary efficiency during their many years in space, we provide value when realizing complex optical systems such as laser communication systems in space.

In order to meet the highest demands for the greatest possible durability of our products, we are constantly expanding our technological know-how in the area of joining (e.g. anodic bonding of SiSiC and glass) or coating (e.g. PVD of glass on SiC).

Parameters that can be achieved using our technologies

• Low surface dimensions of < 30 kg/m² via targeted (also closed) light-weight optics for the optimal relationship between dimensions to size
• High thermal and mechanical stiffness via the use of suitable materials like SiC, SiSiC or comparable substances
• Low roughness (< 1 nm RMS) via application of a conventionally polished glass layer
• Highest surface flatness via fine correction processes
• Low influence of scattered light due to high optical surface quality

Viewing the stars has not only been of great importance since the astronomical pioneers Galileo Galilei or Johannes Kepler. With earthbound optical systems and high-end components that meet the requirements for use in astronomical applications, we support many space monitoring projects.

What we offer in the area of astronomical applications

• OEM development of complex optical systems, above all high-end telescopes or adaptive optics
• The development and implementation of specifically adapted optic technologies for manufacturing and qualification
• The efficient and risk-minimized execution of complex projects using our proven manufacturing technologies for products used in astronomical applications
• The use of state-of-the-art processes and methods for the best optical performance, maximum image quality and highest cleanliness quality (min. ISO 5)
• Certified processes and experience dealing with common industrial standards and provisions for product lines used in astronomical applications

For a successful performance in space, it is absolutely necessary to use the correct and qualified equipment when adjusting, measuring and inspecting on the ground. We are your excellent partner in this regard and have already provided the decisive OGSE (optical ground support equipment) for many key applications and important space programs.

Important technical parameters that we can offer

• The creation of very large optical components (up to 2 m in diameter or edge length)
• Process various glass and glass ceramic materials
• Fine processing of surfaces to small nanometer PV, depending on specifications
• The use of high-performance testing systems for absolute qualification
• Regular reconciliation with the Physikalisch Technischen Bundesanstalt (PTB) and internal testing standards
• Sub-second correction for beam guidance tests and calibration
• The use of our industrial processing and testing abilities even for special products in small quantities
• Complete and standard-compliant documentation of customer-specific requirements

Our components have been used successfully in the following space programs: