In 1984 the German Aerospace Research Establishment - Deutsche Forschungsanstalt fOr Luft-und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR) -Initiated a series of seminars related to fundamental prob- lems In fluid mechanics, flight mechanics, guidance and control, materials and structures, non-nuclear energetics, communication technology, and remote sensing. The main purpose of the seminars Is to bring modern Ideas and techniques In these fields to the attention of DLR scientists and engineers in order to stimulate internal activities as well as International cooperation. To this end, prominent speakers are Invited to Join In a series of lectures and discussions on topics of mutual Interest. After the preceding seminars 1984 Nonlinear Dynamics In Transcritical Flows 1985 Uncertainty and Control 1986 Artificial Intelligence and Man-Machine-Systems 1987 Parallel Computing in Science and Engineering 1988 Hydrocarbon Oxidation a sixth seminar on HOptimlzation: Methods and Applications, Possibilities and LimitatlonsH Is being conducted In 1989. Optimization takes place wherever a choice among alternatives exists: in daily life, In eco- nomics, In politics, in nature and also in engineering. The availability of powerful computers makes It possible to solve complex optimization problems efficiently, and to react flexibly to changes of reqUirements. The seminar addresses the potential of a systematic, computer-aided approach to optimiza- tion problems. The presentations Include fundamental principles and practical applications to aerospace structures as well as evolution techniques and biotechnological optimization processes.