Energy and Electronics

A reliable and efficient power supply is a precondition for the functioning of all electronic systems on board of any spacecraft. The experts at Fraunhofer AVIATION & SPACE develop cutting-edge technologies for space that efficiently cover the power requirements of satellites.

Our expertise includes the development of highly compact and highly efficient power electronics as well as detailed electrical and thermal simulations. From circuit design on circuit boards to the implementation of high-current lines - we guarantee the highest quality and reliability.

Our expertise covers a wide range of areas, including:

Electric drives
Electronics for radar
Integrated circuits and systems
Hardware and software for small satellites
Total Ionising Dose and Single Event Effects
Coatings
Power electronics / Printed electronics
Electronics for payloads
Optical power transmission with power-by-light

In the technology field of energy and electronics, we develop highly efficient solar cells with efficiencies of up to 46 per cent and compact power electronics with efficiencies of up to 99 per cent. Our research focuses not only on energy supply, but also on the development of highly reliable satellite control systems and camera systems.

Some of our projects include:

Highly reliable, redundant PowerPC MPC823e platform, used in BIRD, TET, BIROS and Firebird
Multicore QorIQ P4080 with 8 x MPC 1.5 GHz each, used in DEOS
Highly compact and efficient inverter with SiC transistors for terrestrial applications
Highly compact, resonant, galvanically isolated DC/DC converter with GaN transistors, power of 1 kW at frequencies below 1 MHz

Our work is focused on pushing the boundaries of technology in space and maximising the reliability of electronic systems. With our many years of experience and our commitment to innovation, we are your reliable partner for space technologies of the highest quality.

Take a look at our project examples

Find out more about Fraunhofer contributions to space missions