Neustrelitz (dpa/mv) - Scientists at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Neustrelitz can now better monitor space weather. As announced by the Schwerin Ministry of Science on Friday, a new eleven meter long tri-band antenna was put into operation in the Mecklenburg Lake District.
This means that so-called solar wind data can be received from satellites in three frequency bands. Solar winds, or solar storms, are bursts of radiation and plasma from the sun that affect space and Earth.
This affects the earth's magnetic field, which can severely disrupt technical infrastructure on earth and satellite-based systems - including mobile phone networks and surveillance systems. For this purpose, DLR should provide data that is as reliable as possible. "The DLR site in Neustrelitz stands for excellent and globally recognized research and development as well as scientific exchange," explained MV Science Minister Bettina Martin (SPD).
The highly networked, digitized world with its satellite-supported navigation and communication systems needs information and knowledge about possible fluctuations. For this purpose, an institute was set up in Neustrelitz with 80 employees.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania supported the construction with around ten million euros and added around 670,000 euros for operating costs. DLR has been operating the Neustrelitz site since 1992, where satellite data is received and processed and maritime traffic, its safety and space weather are monitored.
