Meteorology
Team WissensSpuren and LIM
The Leipzig Institute for Meteorology (LIM) is one of the largest atmospheric science institutes in Germany and a recognized center for meteorological research and education.
History
Meteorological research in Leipzig can be traced back over five centuries to the first meteorological textbook, Decalogium by Virgil Wellendarffer. In 1826, Leipzig produced the world’s first weather map. The Geophysical Institute, founded in 1913, was the first scientific institution in Germany dedicated to researching the physics of the atmosphere. The Leipzig Institute for Meteorology continues this tradition and is now a recognized center for meteorological research and education.
Education and Research
The research at the Institute utilizes both global climate and weather models, as well as various observational data, to study processes that govern the development of weather and climate across the entire atmosphere. A key goal is to better understand the impacts of climate change, with a particular focus on the Arctic. To achieve this, data from specialized observations, such as satellite-based, aircraft-mounted, and ground-based remote sensing, are analyzed—much of which is gathered through international measurement campaigns.
Meteorology education follows the principle of research-based professional orientation. The Bachelor’s program provides the mathematical and physical foundations of atmospheric sciences, which are applicable to a wide range of meteorological issues. The English-language, research-oriented Master’s program builds on the institute’s current research, equipping students with the skills needed for independent research in atmospheric sciences.
Outreach
The Institute is an integral part of the Children’s University at the University of Leipzig and offers its own blog for children, “Mia’s Climate Diary.” Additionally, the institute plays a prominent role in the Long Night of Sciences, offering real-time weather data from the measurement field in front of the building and the institute tower. This information is displayed both on the institute’s website, and displayed on a screen in the building.