AstrOOptics is a joint Centre of Innovation Competence formed by a strategic alliance of the successful Centers for Innovation Competence ultra optics in Jena and innoFSPEC in Potsdam. Exploring state-of-the-art photonic technologies for pilot applications in astrophysics and space exploration by realizing novel observation and measuring instruments, this project will use the extreme requirements of these applications as a stimulator for progress in photonic technologies. The Centre of Innovation Competence ultra optics from Jena will bring its expertise in micro- and nanostructuring, material modification with ultrashort laser pulses as well as in controlling light with nanostructured elements into the project. innoFSPEC is adding its expertise for astrophotonics and the development of instruments for astronomic measurements as well as direct access to many ground- and space-based observatories.