Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOFInternational Paris Air Show | June 16 to 22, 2025
Fraunhofer IOF at the International Paris Air Show 2025
Fraunhofer IOF develops modern and powerful optical components and systems, for example for satellite-based quantum communication as well as for Earth observation and planetary exploration.
At the PARIS AIR SHOW 2025 from June 16 to 22, the institute will be presenting its latest developments for aerospace applications.
We invite you to visit us at the PARIS AIR SHOW and talk to us about the expertise of Fraunhofer IOF. You will find us at the BDLI joint booth C358 of Fraunhofer AVIATION & SPACE Alliance in hall 2C.
Learn more about our Exhibit-Highlights on this page.
Our collegues are looking forward to meeting you!
Exhibitions at the Space International Paris Air Show 2025
CubEniK's mini-satellite for quantum communication in space
Under the supervision of Fraunhofer IOF, an ultra-compact payload for a satellite the size of a shoebox, a so-called “CubeSat”, was developed in the CubEniK project. The aim of the mini-satellite is to transmit a secure quantum key over a distance of 300 kilometers between two ground stations in Jena and Munich. In the future, systems for quantum key distribution (QKD) via satellite could be used in high-security modules and thus secure data sovereignty in sensitive areas such as the financial industry or government agencies.
Visualization of a CubeSat with quantum key distribution between Jena and Munich.
Midfree Telescope system
Ultra-precise freeform optics optimize optical performance and minimize the space requirements of optical systems, making them particularly relevant for space applications.
Fraunhofer IOF presents a freeform-based optical design of a three-mirror anastigmat (TMA) with two aluminum mirrors (6061-T6) and a nickel-phosphorus thick film. To align the mirrors, an additively manufactured holding structure was designed that enables precise integration. The development incorporates Fraunhofer IOF's expertise in metal mirror production, including ultra-precise diamond machining and adapted polishing and shape correction processes to reduce deviations in the near-infrared (NIR) and visual spectral range. In addition, Fraunhofer IOF takes over the coating, assembly and adjustment of the TMA optics and characterizes medium-frequency errors on the optical surfaces as part of the system optimization.
Fully integrated system demonstrator.
SBC gratings
Spectral beam combining (SBC) can further increase the power potential independently of the limited power of individual fibre lasers and stabilize the beam quality. For this purpose, laser beams of different wavelengths are directed and bundled at adapted angles onto special optical reflection gratings.
Fraunhofer IOF develops scalable diffraction gratings that are specially optimized for high laser powers and thermal loads as well as low absorption for the target wavelength range. The SBC gratings made of dielectric materials (quartz glass) are designed for the spectral range from 100 nm to 200 nm and achieve a diffraction efficiency of over 99% for polarized light and over 97% for unpolarized light with simultaneously low wavefront errors. SBC gratings are used in the security sector, for example.
SBC gratings made of dielectric materials.