Research from Lusatia for applications in space

Lusatia is thus once again demonstrating that it is developing into a centre for high technology and future research. "Our experiments are being carried out here in Cottbus, but under conditions that are otherwise only found in space," says Head of Department Prof. Dr Christoph Egbers.

From March 2026, the researchers will be investigating the movement of special liquids that are set in motion solely by electric fields. In weightlessness - for example during parabolic flights - the natural buoyancy is eliminated. What remains is a so-called dielectrophoretic force, with which the flow can be specifically controlled, switched on and off. This technology is considered promising for new cooling and heat exchanger systems in satellites, space probes and future space stations.

Tests are being carried out with two test cells specially developed at BTU, including a cylindrical and a plate-shaped geometry. They will be used in several parabolic flight campaigns between 2026 and 2028. State-of-the-art measurement technology will visualise how the fluid moves and how efficiently heat is transported.

The project not only strengthens the international visibility of BTU, but also the scientific and technological expertise of Lusatia. Students and young scientists from the region are working directly on the experiments and gaining experience in space research.

The DLR space project management organisation is providing 665,000 euros over three years for DEPIK II. In the long term, the results could be used not only in space, but also on Earth - for example for energy-efficient cooling technology in industry and Mechanical Engineering.