Cottbus takes off: New institute for green aviation technologies opens!

Cottbus takes off: New institute for green aviation technologies opens!

On July 1, 2025, the importance of the aviation industry in sustainable development will be highlighted again. Aunanna Rashid, an alumni of the Brandenburg Technical University (BTU) Cottbus-Senftenberg, plays a central role here. The native Bangladeshi not only studied in Germany, but is now working as a scientist at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cottbus.

Rashid specializes in the architecture and integration of propulsion systems, particularly in electrified aircraft. Her studies in energy technology at the BTU gave her valuable practical skills. During her studies she worked as a student assistant, which helped her to develop a deep understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals. Rashid notes that patience, curiosity and passion for technology are honorable qualities for aspiring engineers.

Research on low-emission drive systems

DLR recently opened a new Institute for Electrified Aviation Propulsion in Cottbus, which focuses on low-emission propulsion systems for civil aviation. Hybrid-electric and battery-electric drives are the focus of this research, which aims to achieve short- and long-term reductions in CO2 emissions. Rashid applied to DLR when she heard about the establishment of this institute in order to be able to work on the development of these pioneering technologies.

The institute was founded in June 2021 and has developed rapidly. It currently has 23 employees, but the aim is to have 35 by the end of the year. In the long term, up to 150 skilled workers are planned. Under the leadership of Commissioner Lars Enghardt, the institute offers an optimal environment for innovation in the aviation industry, especially with a view to structural change in the Lusatia region.

Sustainable aviation through innovative concepts

Another key aspect of research at DLR is the EXACT study (Exploration of Electric Aircraft Concepts and Technologies). This comprehensive study aims to develop low-emission passenger aircraft from 2040. Scientists are in the process of designing various aircraft configurations and systematically assessing their ecological and economic potential.

The study takes into account not only hybrid-electric but also hydrogen-based drive systems. A complex simulation framework that integrates insights from twenty disciplines forms the basis for detailed analyzes and examines all aspects of the aircraft's life cycle from production to recycling. The use of renewable energy sources such as hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) will also be researched.

In her daily work, Rashid participates in research and simulation tasks and supervises master's students. In the near future she will also be involved in the experimental validation of systems. Despite her commitment, she sometimes misses the active student life, shopping and being with friends in the Quasimono student club.

The developments at DLR and the research results of the EXACT study are crucial to leading the aviation industry into a sustainable future. The international community will continue to closely monitor any progress.

For more information about Rashid's experiences and the new DLR institute, read b-tu.de, electrive.net and dlr.de.