Transfer and Dialogue

Collectively Creating New Perspectives

We do not conduct research in a quiet, isolated space; rather, we foster and maintain continuous engagement with people in the region. We are developing a center with international significance that is deeply embedded in Lusatia and contributes to shaping its identity. In collaboration with partners from education, business, civil society, and politics, we are advancing structural change.

Our Mission

DESY / Paul Glaser

From Saxony to the World

Structural Change Through Societal Exchange

We aim to create new regional perspectives on Lusatia, shaping its identity as a hub of science, innovation, and culture. The construction of the DZA offers unique opportunities for dialogue between science, society, art, and culture—both globally connected and locally anchored. In this way, we strive to act as a bridge between global challenges and regional actions.

Dawid Statnik, Chairman of Domowina, Federation of Lusatian Sorbs

»We Sorbs are inherently well-suited for processes of transformation due to our multilingualism. We are therefore excited about the DZA concept. What particularly convinces us is the ambition with which it aims to reach for the stars—something that can inspire all of Lusatia.«

New Learning Spaces for the Region

Supporting the Next Generation

We ignite enthusiasm for the natural sciences and technology, beginning with early education and continuing through professional training and university programs. In this way, we create lasting opportunities for young people in the region, ensuring a future supply of skilled workers.

We build on a growing network of engaged and established educational partners, working together to develop exciting educational offerings around the core themes of the DZA: fundamental research, technological development, and digitalization.

Astronomical Observatories and Planetariums

A New Chapter Begins

Two years after the successful launch of Sputnik in 1959, astronomy became a mandatory subject in general education schools in the GDR. By 1990, this initiative led to the creation of around 150 school observatories and planetariums across the country. These institutions brought enthusiasm for astronomy and space exploration into the homes of the public. With Sigmund Jähn from Saxony becoming the first German in space, the identity of the people was profoundly shaped.

Amateur and school observatories and planetariums reinforce both historical and future identities. They serve as educational, research, technological, societal, and cultural hubs. We aim to connect with Saxony’s rich history in astronomy and space exploration, and, together with the local community, write a new chapter.

Sternwarten und Planetarien in der sächsischen Lausitz

Making Change Measurable

How can the establishment of the DZA contribute to the structural change of Lusatia's economy? What impact will it have on the education landscape? How will urban and rural environments evolve, and what will this mean for the region's culture and identity?

The Department for Transformation Research at the DZA will actively monitor the establishment of the DZA in the region, using scientific methods. In doing so, it will contribute to shaping the transformational change on a solid scientific basis.

Structural Change Through Networking

From Small Engineering Firms to the Largest Chip Manufacturer in Dresden

Over 80% of companies within the DZA's industry network are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These companies are eager to bring their expertise to the DZA, specifically to address new challenges in astrophysics.

Industry partners (PDF)

Networks for Technological and Industrial Development

In recent months, the DZA has established a robust network of partners in technology development, ranging from non-university research institutions and small engineering firms to the largest semiconductor manufacturer in Dresden. Over 80% of the companies in the DZA’s industrial network are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These companies are eager to contribute their expertise to the DZA and are committed to tackling new challenges in astrophysics.