After the space observatory Herschel, also known by the acronym FIRST (Far Infrared and Submillimeter Telescope), took a successful start on May 14, 2009, it will reach its final destination in approx. 1.5 million kilometers distance from Earth in July 2009 and begin its real scientific mission.
Throughout the duration of three to four year mission, studies about the origins of the galaxy in the early universe and its later evolution will be carried out.

Further investigations will be made into the origins of stars and their interaction with dust and gas-shaped, cosmic matter. HERSCHEL has the ability to see both infrared and wavelengths in the sub-millimeter range. This makes it possible to acquire observation data that was never before achievable.

Baumer manufactured the amplifier unit IF2 for the biggest infrared telescope ever sent to space. It is a central component of the high resolution spectrometer HIFI (high-resolution heterodyne spectrometer), that covers an observation frequency response of 480 to 1910 GHz within its seven bands. The IF 2 was produced under clean-room conditions in line with the most stringent requirements for the manufacturing quality (wire bond, epoxy and soldering processes). The used electronic components and structures are pursued and tested at very low-temperatures (cryogenic) close to absolute zero at 15 Kelvin (approx. -258°C). To fulfill these high requirements only especially certified components were allowed for use. All materials and production processes had to undergo an extensive qualification program to prove the application ability.

With its cutting-edge infrastructure, outstanding technologies and well-trained specialists Baumer meets the high quality demands which are required in space technology.

http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/Herschel/index.html