Tilman Wimmer

About

Tilman Wimmer is a leading figure in space robotics, whose work is pivotal to the future of satellite servicing and on-orbit operations. His primary research focuses on developing and validating robotic systems for Rendezvous and Docking (RvD) simulations and in-space assembly, maintenance, and repair. Wimmer’s major contribution is the creation of the European Proximity Operations Simulator (EPOS), a groundbreaking hardware-in-the-loop testbed that uses advanced robotics to realistically simulate complex satellite maneuvers on the ground. This work, detailed in his most-cited paper (41 citations), has been instrumental in de-risking and validating critical technologies for autonomous orbital missions. He further advanced the field as a key contributor to the CAESAR robot (20 citations), a compliant, force-controlled system designed for the delicate tasks of on-orbit servicing. Through these achievements, Wimmer has provided the space community with essential tools for extending satellite lifetimes and enabling new orbital architectures, cementing his reputation as a pioneer in practical, simulation-based space robotics.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   EPOS - Using Robotics for RvD Simulation of On-Orbit Servicing Missions

   41 citations · 2010
2. 2
   EPOS−A Robotics-Based Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator for Simulating Satellite RvD Operations

   32 citations · 2010
3. 3
   CAESAR: Space Robotics Technology for Assembly, Maintenance, and Repair

   20 citations · 2018

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links