Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology FITDigital twins, XR, and collaborative technologies for space exploration
Space Research at Fraunhofer FIT
Fraunhofer FIT activities in human-centered technologies for space exploration
The space exploration sector is undergoing rapid democratization, with over 10,000 space technology companies now active globally and the space economy projected to surpass €1 trillion in value. Fraunhofer FIT plays an active role in this evolution, exploring and applying information technology to improve cost-efficiency and performance across a range of domains, including space system development, training and public outreach activities.
In practice we utilize human-centered design to develop digital twins, XR simulations, and various collaborative systems. Through these technologies, we explore how future space missions and infrastructures can be designed, tested, and experienced more effectively — ranging from lunar analogue environments and immersive simulations to remote collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange.
We work in close collaboration with the European Space Agency, having already conducted several user studies with astronauts, including zero-gravity flights and a test deployment of an XR application aboard the International Space Station. Together with our collaborators from the MIT Media Lab, we also help organize the annual SpaceCHI conference, which promotes research on human-computer interaction for space exploration.
This page provides an overview of selected projects, events, research activities, and partnerships related to our work in the space domain. Further updates will be added over time.
Research focus
Our work in the space domain focuses on the development and study of digital methods for research, engineering, testing, and collaboration in challenging environments.
Core topics
- Digital twins for complex environments and systems
- XR technologies for simulation, training, and review
- Remote collaboration across institutions and disciplines
- Human-centered interaction design for extreme operational contexts
- Immersive environments for lunar analogue studies and mission preparation
These activities build on earlier work in virtual prototyping, immersive design, and space-related HCI.
Links
Networks and partnerships
Fraunhofer FIT’s activities are embedded in a broader ecosystem of applied research and collaboration in aviation and space. In this context, we contribute as a guest member of the Fraunhofer Aviation & Space alliance.
Our work is shaped by collaboration with partners from research, industry, and the public sector, including the European Space Agency, the MIT Media Lab, and project-specific collaborators across Europe.