73657: Master Student applied physics or similar (f/m/x) -…

Area of research:

Diplom & Master

Free-Space optical communication is an enabling technology, which due to its compactness and power efficiency allows for high-bandwidth connections on even the smallest orbital platforms such as CubeSATs whereas its scalability make terabit per second links with larger payloads practical. In contrast to classical communications, quantum key distribution (QKD) are only possible with optical wavelengths. Light absorption in optical fibres limits the practical reach of such connections to approx. 200 km. Combined with free-space optical communication technology quantum links can be realized over large geographical spans.

The Optical Communication Systems Group at the Institute of Communications and Navigation has been developing an optical communication payload for small satellites, CubeSats, atmospheric platforms, etc.  For ensuring operability in a space environment, the communication terminals must be tested and characterised. In the lab this is done with an optical setup (optical ground support equipment, OGSE) which simulates the deployment environment of the terminal.  In the scope of this project, an OGSE system is to be developed, which will be used for optical adjustments and characterisation of tracking performance of various laser communication terminals.

Therefore, the following main tasks will be:

• assembly of optical systems
• preparation of test setups
• evaluation of measurement data

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation.