1940-2026

Peter Zimmermann was a pioneer in early THz radiometer techniques and devices. Before becoming the founder and leader of RPG Radiometer Physics, he was a Professor at Cologne University and an essential contributor to the development and deployment of THz receivers on both US and European space satellites, as well as ground-based THz observatories. His company, Radiometer Physics, was and is a supplier of state-of-the-art THz components and instruments that have made their way into both science and industrial applications around the world.

Below is a Chatgpt translation of the German obituary to the left:

Obituary

With deep sorrow, RPG Radiometer Physics GmbH bids farewell to its company founder,

Dr. Peter Zimmermann

1940 – 2026

who passed away last week.

With the passing of Dr. Peter Zimmermann, the fields of radio astronomy and remote sensing have lost an outstanding scientist and a dedicated entrepreneur.

After many years of research at the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy, pioneering projects at the Effelsberg Radio Telescope, and work at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), he founded RPG Radiometer Physics GmbH in 1991.

Under his leadership, the company developed into an internationally leading supplier of millimeter-wave components and systems.

This success was based to a great extent on his profound technical expertise, his tireless dedication, and his extraordinary resourcefulness, which enabled him to master even complex technical challenges.

We honor the life’s work of Dr. Peter Zimmermann and will continue his technological legacy with the utmost respect and in keeping with his vision.

Our deepest sympathy goes to his family.

In quiet remembrance,

Achim Walber
Managing Director

The employees of RPG Radiometer Physics GmbH, Meckenheim