Photonics as a key technology for space travel and earth exploration
Photonics is essential for our understanding of the universe and enables precise measurements, laser-based communication and comprehensive earth observation.
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Numerous exhibitors at Laser World of Photonics supply key technologies for space travel. Image: Messe München
It provides key technologies for space missions and climate research - topics that will also be the focus of Laser World of Photonics 2025.
Laser technologies have been playing a role since the first moon landing in 1969, for example by using laser reflectors to measure the distance between the Earth and the moon. Today, photonic systems enable the position of satellites and space debris to be determined with millimeter precision, topographical measurements of other celestial bodies and powerful optical communication systems.
Laser systems such as those from Cedrat Technologies recently contributed to the record transmission of laser signals over 460 million kilometers. ESA projects also rely on photonic technologies, for example to supplement terrestrial networks. Components such as laser amplifiers, diodes or multiplexing processes ensure fast, reliable data connections - with high data rates, low latency and low energy consumption.
In the field of earth observation, LIDAR and spectroscopic methods enable the precise analysis of CO₂ and methane concentrations. Fraunhofer Institutes, the Laser Zentrum Hannover and other exhibitors are continuously developing optical components and measuring systems for satellite missions such as MERLIN and Copernicus.
These and other topics await you at Laser World of Photonics from June 24 to 27, 2025 in Munich.
