DLR logo

DLR

The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) is Germany's national research center for aeronautics, space, energy, transport, and security, with approximately 10,000 employees at 30 locations across Germany.

Cologne, Germany Est. 1969 Government
Visit Website
Quick Facts
Country
Germany
Founded
1969
Type
government
Status
operational

About DLR

The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) is Germany's national research center for aeronautics, space, energy, transport, and security, with approximately 10,000 employees at 30 locations across Germany. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Cologne, DLR operates research aircraft, wind tunnels, simulation facilities, and Germany's primary satellite control center in Oberpfaffenhofen. In space, DLR manages German participation in ESA programs including Ariane rocket development, the ExoMars mission, and ISS research. The agency develops remote sensing satellites (TerraSAR-X, TanDEM-X), planetary science instruments, and reentry capsule technology. DLR also operates ESOC (European Space Operations Centre) facilities and coordinates Germany's space surveillance capabilities. The agency's annual budget is approximately €1.5 billion, funded jointly by the German federal government and its 16 states.

Categories & Capabilities

Location

Loading map...

Click and drag to explore • Double-click to zoom

Share

Suggest an Edit

Is this information outdated or incorrect? Help us improve this profile.

Submit Correction

Explore More

Discover 1,000+ space companies worldwide

Browse All Companies

Frequently asked about DLR

Quick answers to the questions readers most often search for.

When was DLR founded?
DLR was founded in 1969 in Germany.
Where is DLR headquartered?
DLR is headquartered in Cologne, Germany.
What does DLR do?
The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) is Germany's national research center for aeronautics, space, energy, transport, and security, with approximately 10,000 employees at 30 locations across Germany. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Cologne, DLR operates research aircraft, wi…
What sector does DLR operate in?
DLR operates in space-agency, research, aerospace.

Data Accuracy Notice: Information about DLR is compiled from publicly available sources including company websites, press releases, regulatory filings, and industry reports. Data is reviewed periodically but may not reflect the most recent developments.

Last updated: June 30, 2026
Company representatives may submit corrections This page does not constitute an endorsement or affiliation Learn about our data methodology