Intern in the GNC and AOCS Division

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Position Title: Intern in the GNC and AOCS Division
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 30 November 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, technology development, and scientific research. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration and research.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is based at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands, specifically within the GNC, AOCS, and Pointing Division. The intern will engage in various projects related to Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) and Attitude and Orbit Control Systems (AOCS). The role involves supporting conceptual design studies for future missions, technology development for space missions, and laboratory work to evaluate and prototype GNC/AOCS sensors and actuators. The intern will gain hands-on experience in simulations and testing, contributing to the development of advanced control and estimation techniques for interplanetary missions and re-entry scenarios. This internship promises a comprehensive learning experience, allowing the intern to understand the intricacies of GNC and AOCS systems from design to practical application.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for supporting various projects within the GNC and AOCS Division, including:

• Conducting conceptual design studies for future GNC/AOCS missions, particularly in Concurrent Design Facilities (CDF).
• Performing GNC/AOCS design, system analysis, and modeling for current and future missions.
• Defining technology development requirements for space missions and ESA technology programs.
• Engaging in mission-enabling R&D activities for AOCS and Pointing Systems, including high accuracy pointing and competitive building blocks.
• Evaluating and prototyping GNC/AOCS sensors and actuators, as well as new GNC techniques.
• Assisting in the integration of hardware onto test facilities, running tests, and producing test reports.
• Utilizing the GODOT software for orbit determination and navigation performance analysis for various missions.
• Studying autonomous robust control systems for re-entry flight and assisting in the development of guidance and control solutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another Member State language is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have a background in Estimation and Control techniques, as well as experience with programming languages such as Matlab, Simulink, C++, or Python.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master's degree in a relevant field such as aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline. The candidate should be in their final or second-to-last year of study, ensuring they have the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the internship.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with knowledge or practical experience in GNC and AOCS systems, as well as familiarity with simulation and testing environments, will be at an advantage. Experience with programming and software tools relevant to the field will also be beneficial.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English or French, with a good command of one being essential. Knowledge of additional languages from ESA member states is considered advantageous and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position, and candidates must be nationals of one of the ESA member states or associated countries. The internship offers a unique opportunity to work in a prestigious organization dedicated to space exploration. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The internship will provide valuable insights into the workings of GNC and AOCS systems, preparing candidates for future careers in aerospace and related fields.