On Saturday, March 29, the IOM hosted an exciting afternoon around the topic of space propulsion as part of the nationwide “Space Day” of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWiK). The event was a great success and attracted numerous visitors, including high school and university students and space enthusiasts.

In a fascinating lecture on the topic “Electric Propulsion for Spaceflight - From Low Earth Orbit to Deep Space Exploration”, our experts provided insights into current research projects and innovative technologies that enable space exploration. The lecture also highlighted the relevance of our research for the future of space travel and stimulated lively discussions about the ever-changing challenges and opportunities in space travel. One highlight of the event was the opportunity to see two ion engines, one of which was developed as part of a joint project with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Aerospace Innovation GmbH at IOM. In addition, measuring systems developed at IOM for characterizing electric ion engines were presented. This also provided an opportunity to talk to the scientists and learn more about how they work, which was eagerly taken up by the visitors. At the end of the event, a water rocket was launched on the open-air grounds.

We are delighted with the huge interest in our research and the positive response to our event. It was fascinating to see how many people at our location are enthusiastic about space travel. We are pleased to share our work and to raise awareness of the importance of research and innovation in space travel with the public and hope that we have been able to further promote interest in science and technology among young people.

The IOM is dedicated to the research and development of beam-based processes for the production and processing of surfaces and materials using ions, electrons, photons and plasmas, as well as their practical application. One of the IOM's core competencies lies in the development and application of surface modification technologies using inert and reactive ion beams. Building on the work of the former Institute for Isotope and Radiation Research at the same location, the IOM has been involved in the development of grid ion sources as beam tools for surface treatment since its foundation. For more than 20 years, the IOM has also been working in the field of electric propulsion. This work is carried out in the “Tools” area and is carried out both in the context of projects funded by the DLR or the European Space Agency (ESA) and in the form of direct orders from industrial partners.