Get to know us.

Space travel.
Inspiring.
Europe.

Visual Tour

We’re the DLR Space Applications Institute mbH – the DLR GfR for short. From our control center in Operpfaffenhofen near Munich, we monitor the operation of Galileo – the European global satellite navigation, timing, and positioning system.

Galileo is the only satellite navigation system of its kind under civil control – and it’s the most precise, too. On behalf of the European Commission, we head up all the tasks that ensure the secure and error-free operation of the mission. Something over 1.4 billion smartphone users rely upon each and every day.

Our services cover everything you’ll need for a successful satellite mission – from the very first idea to way beyond the launch. Both in orbit and on Earth.

Commercial space travel

Whether mission planning, configuration management or safe operations throughout all mission phases. We’ll support you every step of the way.

Solutions for ground infrastructure

Ready-to-use antennae systems, surveillance and control system solutions and the service that comes with them – all around the clock. We offer tailored solutions to fit your specific needs.

Two ground control stations, 26 satellites, 24-hour service and 99.9% availability. And all of it can only be made possible thanks to our strong, dedicated team. For over a decade now, it’s been the passionate driving force behind our projects.

Satellites don’t take breaks. To ensure the smooth operation of the mission, it takes all hands on deck in the most varied areas – from the over 25 colleagues in our IT department to our over 60 engineers and scientists. Around the clock, they make sure that the message from mission control is never “Oberpfaffenhofen, we have a problem!”

A further 30 technicians complement the team with their specialization in the installation and operation of all the necessary ground infrastructure – from the smallest servers all the way to the 30-meter DLR satellite dish in Weilheim, which we use for the Galileo Signal Monitoring Facility (SMF).

We’re all driven by our shared passion for the work we get to do each day. For your benefit.

With an unwavering focus on the future and both feet on the ground: our two managing directors, Walter Päffgen and Simon Plum.

Walter Päffgen
Chief Executive Officer of DLR GfR

Simon Plum
Chief Executive Officer of the Galileo-Program

Discovering new horizons – together

We’re one of Europe’s most unique employers. We keep our focus on the future – always – and stand out through our continuous innovation and passion for what we do. And for our team, we’re always on the lookout for bright minds with pioneering spirits. The most important requirement? That they be inspired. Because you can only inspire others when you’re truly convinced of your capabilities.