Mr. Kaufeler is ESA’s principal Member Agency Representative to the CCSDS, and has been an active CCSDS participant since 1987. 

Recognizing the importance of data handling standards in space, Mr. Kaufeler has taken active roles throughout his career in several international organizations focused on developing space communications standards.  Within the CCSDS in particular, Mr. Kaufeler was involved in the development of Time Code Standards, Standard Information Interchange Processes and Space Link Extension Standards, before moving to the management side of the organization in 1996.

Mr. Kaufeler started his career in operational research for Honeywell Bull specializing in Information Technology.  In 1974, he joined the European Space Agency (ESA) at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC), where he designed mission control systems using various generations of software technology.  In 1992, Mr. Kaufeler was named Head of the Mission Control Systems Division. From 2001 – 2003, he served as Head of the ESOC Establishment and also since 2001, he has served as the Head of the Ground Segment Engineering Department.

Mr. Kaufeler holds an engineering degree from L'Ecole Supérieure d'Electricité (Paris).