FBH to present space and quantum tech at ILA 2026
From June 10-14, 2026, the Berlin-based Ferdinand-Braun-Institut (FBH) will present recent developments for space and quantum technologies at ILA Berlin 2026.
Exhibits will include space-qualified diode lasers, highly integrated MIMO radar systems, high-performance RF components, and quantum technologies.
A key focus at ILA will be ultra-reliable diode lasers for use under the harsh conditions of space. FBH develops miniaturised, radiation-hard laser sources for pump laser and LiDAR applications, alongside robust packaging and integration technologies.
For compact and highly integrated laser modules, the institute relies on its established MiLas platform (pictured above). The technology combines micro-optical integration with high mechanical and thermal stability and suits applications such as optical communication, sensing, and quantum technologies in space.
Another featured exhibit is a new modular MIMO mm-wave radar system for high-resolution imaging and sensing in space applications. FBH is developing the system together with project partners based on a scalable panel architecture. The design allows radar apertures to be flexibly adapted to different mission requirements. The system operates at 95 GHz with a bandwidth of 10 GHz and supports both conventional radar tasks and imaging applications.
Each module integrates eight transmit and eight receive channels and uses multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology to create an effective aperture without moving mechanical parts. This enables high-resolution radar-based imaging with precise beam steering. FBH develops key components in-house, including DDS circuits, MMICs for frequency up- and down-conversion in InP DHBT technology, and corrugated horn antennas.
FBH will also present a newly developed Ka-band power amplifier based on microstrip technology. The amplifier targets applications in satellite communications and space-based radio-frequency systems. FBH developed the amplifier within a project for the European Space Agency (ESA). The project aimed to further improve the institute’s GaN-based 150 nm gate technology for high output power at high frequencies while increasing reliability. The amplifier is expected to deliver output powers exceeding 5 W in the Ka-band with high energy efficiency.
