DR. WERNER GROSS The sensor chip that detects CO2 sources with the help of infrared technology is a little bit larger than a One Euro Coin. "The sensor is integrated into a satellite that is continuously orbiting the earth. The satellite scans the earth's surface by means of infrared technology. Thermal movements can be easily detected because the satellite is reacting sensitively to heat sources. The data add up to images that are suitable for scientific climate research," explains Dr. Werner Gross from AIM in Heilbronn. The satellite not only identifies forest fires at an early point, but also rising water temperatures or environmental pollution via the emissions of CO2. Robust technology for space In space, sensitive technology has to withstand minus 270°C of cold weather and one hundred degrees of heat as well as further environmental influences such as space radiation. "This is the reason why the sensors are encased with a kind of thermos flask." "This protection shields extreme heat and avoids that humidity has a negative effect on the instrument's functions," knows the expert. Climate protection from space. Satellites reliably measure temperatures of surfaces to land, sea or ice. Delivering top technology by means of testing In order to make sure that the infrared detector works reliably, conditions are simulated in the laboratory and technology is extensively tested. Dr. Werner Gross reports: "Heavy vibration and shock loads occur when traveling to space. The rocket carrying the satellite into space accelerates to approximately 40,000 km/h. In the laboratory, for example, a "shaker" is used for the simulation of the rocket launch. Potential for an environmentally friendly future Reliable data are indispensable to the observation and classification of climate changes. AIM, a subsidiary of Diehl Defence and Rheinmetall Electronics, is working on orders from Germany as well as for European, Korean and Japanese satellite missions. Space-qualified infrared technology by AIM is a key component for current and future satellite missions in the field of earth observation. Diehl Defence combines the Diehl Group’s activities in defence and security. Diehl companies are important partners of the German and international armed forces. Learn more about Diehl Defence Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG © 2021 Data Protection Imprint and legal notice CONSENT We would like to use Google Analytics to optimise the design of our website. Through this, Google collects data which is aggregated and made available to us as a statistical overview. By clicking "Agree", you consent to tracking by Google Analytics. This consent is voluntary and can be revoked at any time. If you click "Decline", no tracking will take place. For more information, please see our privacy policy. Data Protection Legal ACCEPT DECLINE