On May 14, 2026, our spokesperson Sabine C. Langer from TU Braunschweig presented the paper “Toward acoustics-oriented aircraft design for highly integrated transport aircraft” at the 190th Acoustical Society of America (ASA) Meeting in the session: General Topics in Engineering Acoustics.

Her contribution showcased SynTrac research and highlighted the growing need for a paradigm shift in aviation acoustics: moving beyond conventional “noise abatement” strategies toward a fully acoustics-oriented aircraft design approach. Rather than addressing noise only after a system has been developed, the concept integrates desired acoustic characteristics from the earliest phases of aircraft design and technology assessment which reflects the core of SynTrac´s research paradigm.

A central focus of the presentation was the challenge posed by future highly integrated transport aircraft, particularly concepts featuring tighter integration between engines and airframes to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. While environmental sustainability remains a key driver in aviation research, aircraft noise is increasingly recognized as a major factor influencing passenger and crew well-being, community acceptance, and the competitiveness of future aircraft technologies.

The presentation emphasized that reliable assessments of both external and internal aircraft noise require advanced modelling and simulation frameworks capable of representing the entire “acoustic chain”, from tonal and broadband sound generation at the source, through propagation paths, to the final acoustic immission experienced by humans. Accurate modelling, reliable simulation, and perceptually informed assessment methods were identified as essential prerequisites for enabling acoustics-oriented design within future aircraft development processes.

 

On 25 April 2026, the nationwide Girls’ Day/Future Day took place once again, and the SynTrac research project was also in attendance with exciting hands-on activities at the University of Stuttgart’s Vaihingen campus.  The aim was to inspire schoolgirls to pursue careers in engineering and the natural sciences, from a SynTrac perspective particularly in the fields of aerospace.

Several hundred schoolgirls took part in this year’s Girls’ Day/Future Day and were warmly welcomed at a central welcome event on the Vaihingen Campus. Dr Ing Grazia Lamanna, Lead of Project Area C in SynTrac welcomed the girls in her role as the University of Stuttgart’s Equal Opportunities Officer, and introduced the participants to significant women from the history of science.

Using the current example of astronaut Christina Koch from the Artemis 2 mission, she made it clear what significant contributions female role models make. At the same time, she emphasised that it is not gender but ability, dedication and competence that matter most, and that the potential for extraordinary achievements lies within all girls, not just a few exceptions.

With this inspiring message, the girls then split into small groups to take part in the various workshops.

As part of the SynTrac project, ten schoolgirls from Years 5 and 6 were given an insight into the world of aviation at the Institute of Aircraft Propulsion at the University of Stuttgart. The workshop focused on the theme ‘Why do aeroplanes fly? and the future of sustainable aviation’, and gave us the opportunity not only to discuss modern aviation but also to explain SynTrac’s sustainability goals.

Together with SynTrac researchers, fundamental physical principles of flight were discussed and clearly explained. The girls were then able to put what they had learnt into practice straight away, using model aeroplanes that they launched themselves after personalizing each aircraft.

A particular highlight was the tour of a real aircraft engine, which was used to explain the structure and functioning of an aircraft propulsion system in a tangible way. In a further experiment in the laboratory, the participants simulated the flow behaviour of air using small particles in water which is a creative and visually striking method for exploring aerodynamic effects.

In addition, the schoolgirls had the opportunity to chat with female researchers from the aerospace sector and learn first-hand what inspires them about their work and how they came to pursue a career in research. They were given the important advice to be curious and always ask plenty of questions. This became the motto of the day, and the girls not only had fruitful discussions with the SynTrac team but also engaged in lively exchanges amongst themselves.

The enthusiasm was palpable among everyone involved, and many participants showed great interest in the scientific topics and asked curious questions. For the SynTrac project, Girls’ Day 2026 was a resounding success and a welcome opportunity to inspire young talent in technology and research.

From 18–20 March 2026, doctoral researchers gathered in Braunschweig for a three-day workshop combining scientific exchange, professional development, and networking opportunities. The event brought together PhD students from across the project to deepen their knowledge in aeroacoustics while strengthening connections within the research community.

A particular highlight of the workshop was the lecture series delivered by Prof. Stéphane Moreau from the Université de Sherbrooke in Canada. Prof. Moreau is one of the world’s leading aeroacousticians, with remarkable visibility, not least due to a very high number of highly distinguished publications. We were especially pleased to once again attract such a highly renowned guest to the Winter School.  His sessions covered key topics including an introduction to aircraft noise, Curle’s analogy for airfoil noise, and the role of wall-pressure fluctuations as a bridge between aeroacoustics, vibroacoustics, and aeroelasticity. These lectures provided participants with both foundational understanding and advanced insights into current research challenges in the field.

Complementing the scientific program, dedicated “Focus & Connect” sessions were held throughout the workshop. These interactive blocks created space for participants to concentrate on their own research while engaging in discussions with peers, exchanging feedback, and identifying opportunities for collaboration. The format encouraged both productivity and community-building, making it a core element of the event.

The event also included a workshop on research data management, with a particular focus on the tools used in SynTrac, offering participants practical, hands-on guidance on how to effectively handle, organize, share, and preserve scientific data throughout the research lifecycle. SynTrac puts a special emphasis on applying the FAIR principles, ensuring that data are Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable.

In addition, career talks gave participants the opportunity to explore different professional pathways and gain insights into career development beyond their PhD. These sessions were enriched by personal reflections from our guest Stéphane Moreau as well as SynTrac principal investigator Jan Delfs and Michael Heere who holds a junior professorship at TU Braunschweig. They all emphasized that not everything in a career path can be planned and that it is important to move forward with confidence, even in times of uncertainty. In particular, Michael Heere spoke very vividly about the challenges of balancing family and career, offering a candid perspective that resonated strongly with participants. In SynTrac we recognize the importance of engaging with these aspects during the PhD journey to facilitate the candidates to create a vision of their own future.

Beyond the academic sessions, the workshop fostered informal exchange through a social event at an Escape Room, “Hidden in Braunschweig,” followed by a group dinner, as well as optional evening activities such as a movie screening.

Overall, the workshop provided a well-rounded experience, combining high-level scientific input, practical skills training, and valuable networking opportunities for the project’s PhD community.

In March 2026, curious visitors joined the SynTrac researchers at the Institute of Thermodynamics at the University of Stuttgart: a total of 11 children, aged five to six, from Kita Steppkes came to SynTrac to learn more about airplanes and flying.

Reaching young people is a key priority as part of SynTracs outreach activities. It is therefore especially encouraging that the daycare center is visiting with a group for the third time, a sign of lasting interest and successful early engagement.

At the beginning of this visit, the children shared their own experiences with flying. Some had already traveled on an airplane and talked about it enthusiastically, while others asked many curious questions: Why can airplanes fly? How do they stay in the air?

To make sure everyone could participate and try things out themselves, the children were divided into two groups and guided through the program.

Together we talked about the human dream of flying and how research and engineering have helped turn this dream into reality. We also discussed the role research plays today in making aviation more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Of course, the visit was not just about listening but there was also plenty of hands-on activity. The children built their own gliders, decorated them with colorful designs, and then tested how well they could fly. It quickly became clear that while a glider can glide for a short distance, an airplane needs propulsion to travel long distances.

Building on this, we took a closer look at aircraft engines, the exhaust gases they produce, and the very high temperatures inside an engine. To demonstrate how researchers measure such heat, the children were able to try out a piece of research equipment themselves: a thermal imaging camera. Together, they explored what the camera can and cannot detect: Which objects appear clearly in a thermal image? Can you see through materials? And what does a person look like in a thermal image?

Finally, the children conducted their own small experiment. They decorated cups that were then sprayed with a temperature-sensitive coating of thermochromic liquid crystals. Their artwork becomes visible only when a warm drink is poured into the cup.

The visit was great fun for everyone and perhaps it sparked an early interest in science and engineering for some of the young visitors.

Following the success of last year’s outreach activity, SynTrac once again hosted the event “Wunderwelt der Tropfen” in February 2026 as part of the Try Science initiative at the University of Stuttgart. For a second year in a row, the Institute of Aerospace Thermodynamics at University of Stuttgart welcomed 11 motivated students aged 16 and above from various schools, offering them insight into the fundamental science behind innovative and sustainable aviation technologies.

The event began with an introduction to SynTrac’s research mission and objectives. Participants learned how the project tackles complex engineering challenges, particularly in advancing greener aviation concepts to reduce the environmental impact of air travel.

The scientific focus of this year’s event was again droplet dynamics, a research topic within the Research Area C of SynTrac. David Gösele from sub-project C02 introduced students to experimental and numerical methods used to investigate droplet behavior.

Understanding droplet dynamics is crucial for analyzing condensation processes in aircraft engines and the transport of excess water in exhaust gases. Within SynTrac, reducing excess water plays an important role in mitigating contrail formation. Beyond CO₂ emissions, contrails (ice clouds formed from aircraft exhaust) significantly contribute to aviation’s climate impact. Addressing their formation is therefore a dedicated research focus of the project.

In sub-projects B04 and C02, researchers investigate advanced approaches such as optimizing exhaust gas treatment and water recovery using porous media to reduce contrail formation at its source.

As in the previous edition, students toured the laboratories where the research takes place and were shown various testing facilities. Interactive discussions with doctoral researchers provided valuable insights into academic career paths, daily research work, and the broader societal relevance of engineering research.

A highlight of the event was once again the opportunity for participants to conduct their own droplet experiments, translating theoretical knowledge into practical experience and fostering curiosity through hands-on discovery. This year we further expanded on the scope of the hands-on part by introducing new engaging ways of experiencing science such as a floating droplet experiment and the use of thermal imaging as a research method.

With the second edition of “Wunderwelt der Tropfen,” SynTrac continues to strengthen its commitment to science outreach, inspiring young talent and promoting enthusiasm for STEM and sustainable aviation research.

Quench your thirst for knowledge while enjoying a relaxed drink – that’s what the Science Pub is all about. In an informal atmosphere, leading researchers serve science in a refreshingly accessible way: entertaining, understandable, and full of “aha” moments.

A little more than 100 years ago, flying was still a dream. Today, aviation is an integral part of everyday life: we fly for business, to visit friends, or to go on holiday. After decades of technological progress and economic optimization, the aviation sector is now entering a new phase. The path forward leads from what is merely economically optimal to what is also environmentally, socially, and globally sustainable.

In the Science Pub talk, Dr. Christian Koch, lead of subproject B01: Functional integration and performance retention of propulsors — waste heat recovery, presented a range of forward-looking ideas and technologies that could shape this transformation. Through clear, accessible explanations, the presentation highlighted that aviation must be understood as a global industry and that international, interdisciplinary collaboration is key to making sustainable innovation a reality.

Organized by the Society for Natural History in Württemberg and the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, the event was moderated by Tobias Wilhelm and drew strong public interest. Numerous questions, ranging from technical details to broader reflections on the future of mobility, showed just how much this topic resonates with the audience.

This year, TU Braunschweig hosted the SynTrac Annual Meeting which took place at Hofjäger 36, an inspiring workspace that provided the perfect setting for three days of intensive presentations, lively poster sessions, and vibrant interdisciplinary exchange.

Across three consecutive sessions, the sub-projects A – Assessment, B – Integration, and C – Physical Processes presented their current results and ongoing collaborations. All attending researchers actively contributed to the discussions and offered valuable feedback. The dynamically designed poster sessions of each sub-project fostered cross-disciplinary dialogue, ranging from in-depth methodological discussions to open exchanges with colleagues and members of the Advisory Board.

In addition, project leads from each sub-project moderated joint Interactive Sessions, during which the entire team worked together on consolidating a baseline for the next project phase. The sessions focused on Insights, Challenges, and the Outlook beyond the current timeline. The intensive, cross-disciplinary discussions proved highly valuable: collective reflection and the diverse perspectives from different fields sharpened key questions and provided strategic impulses for the upcoming phase of the project.

Representatives of the Advisory Board played an essential role in taking stock of the project’s progress and refining future perspectives. Cameron Tropea, Cord Rossow, and Daniel Reckzeh raised thought-provoking, strategic questions, engaged in individual discussions with researchers, and enriched the meeting with constructive contributions throughout. In his absence, Dr. Schaber (MTU) was acknowledged for his previous input and committed involvement, as the project leadership announced a change regarding MTU’s representation on the Advisory Board.

SynTrac participated in the EASN Conference 2025, held in Madrid, Spain, with a dedicated project session chaired by the spokesperson Prof. Sabine Langer and co-spokesperson Prof. Stephan Staudacher.

The EASN (European Aeronautics Science Network) Conference is a leading international forum for aeronautics research and innovation in Europe, bringing together academic researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to share advances, discuss emerging technologies, and foster collaboration across the aerospace community.

Prof. Langer opened the session with a compelling overview of the SynTrac project, outlining the project objectives and research approach. This high-level introduction framed the varied set of presentations that followed.

The dedicated SynTrac session provided a dynamic platform to present the project’s interdisciplinary work, showcasing a diverse mix of technical presentations spanning multiple topics and disciplines. Contributions ranged from extending engine performance modelling for highly integrated transport aircraft as well as modeling the acoustic chain from source to immission, to engine–airframe integration using numerical approaches as well as off-design assessment in preliminary aircraft design using actual operational data. The presentations showcased SynTrac’s ability to link fundamental research with applied engineering challenges.

Beyond technical topics, the session includes presentation by the supporting project structures such as the Public Relations project and the integrated Research Training Group, offering insights into the project’s culture and everyday research life. By combining in-depth technical exchange with broader perspectives on collaboration and outreach, SynTrac’s session stood out from typical conference sessions and attracted a diverse audience.

Dr.-Ing. Xing Yang has taken an important step in his career and now holds a professorship at the School of Energy and Power Engineering at Xi’an Jiaotong University (China). His academic career is closely linked to the University of Stuttgart and the SynTrac research consortium: he received funding from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation for a two-year research stay. The host for this funding was Prof. Dr. Bernhard Weigand at the Institute of Aerospace Thermodynamics (ITLR) at the University of Stuttgart.

Following the Humboldt Fellowship, Dr. Xing Yang continued his research for another two years as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Stuttgart.

The topics he worked on in collaboration with the SynTrac research project had a significant impact on his scientific profile. His scientific focus is on gas turbines, heat transfer, particle deposition, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and experimental measurement methods.

In his office in China, the SynTrac model aircraft now reminds him of his successful time at the University of Stuttgart.

At the University of Stuttgart’s annual celebration last Friday, Prof. Dr-Ing Rolf Radespiel of TU Braunschweig was awarded an honorary doctorate in a solemn ceremony.

The annual event brings together members of the university and invited guests from science, business, politics, and society for a diverse program in which the Rector reviews the challenges and accomplishments of the academic year, honors are conferred, and a keynote address reflects the theme of the current Science Year.

Photo credit: University of Stuttgart/Uli Regenscheit