Who we are:

Lodestar is automating everything we do off-earth. The humans and robots we send to space today are expensive, risky, and inherently unscalable - this Old Space way of thinking is holding back an exciting era of New Space opportunities.

Lodestar is changing this with a series of next-gen robotic tools for the space domain, enabling a future where satellites can be routinely serviced, microgravity manufacturing is automated, and massive infrastructure can be built directly up in space. 

Currently a team of five based in London and founded by deep-tech pioneers in Hyperloop and rocketry technology, the team is venture backed by leading deep-tech investors in Europe, and advised by the former head of the European Space Agency. 

The next frontier needs infrastructure that challenges the status quo - join the team at Lodestar to build it.

What you'll work on:

Safe interfacing between physical objects in free space is a highly complex endeavour, with the future of in-space servicing and assembly requiring significant developments in this domain. Lodestar proposes a soft robotics approach to enable a spacecraft to grab irregular surfaces, without damage to the object being captured. This will be crucial for the re-location and repair of high value assets which were never designed to be interfaced with. 

The student selected for this project will lead the design, prototyping and testing of a demonstrator, ensuring the delivery of a system that absorbs shock, can conform to a variety of surfaces, all under the thermo vacuum conditions of space. Further work could involve the development of basic machine vision systems that verify the status of capture and release, feeding back into the control loop.

Opportunities for growth:

Technical - The student will have ownership over the full design to demonstration process, employing skills in CAD, design for manufacture, mechanical prototyping, electronics and materials science. 

Commercial - Cross-compatibility for this end effector will be critical. This task will involve a deep-dive into the most common interfaces and surfaces on spacecraft and satellites today, and may involve dialogues with commercial satellite operators as to desired capture and interfacing locations on spacecraft buses.

Interpersonal - You will develop communication, project, and time management skills, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in spacecraft engineering, mission design & in-space services.

If applicable and where possible, your role will involve attending relevant events, conferences & meetings alongside the company’s founding team either online or in person.

Applicant Specification:

We’re looking for a proactive student to solve real engineering problems while working closely with the founding team of an ambitious start-up in a dynamic environment. If you thrive on a steep learning curve, having ownership over your work, and aren’t afraid of failing and learning as quickly as possible, then this is the placement for you.

Academic

• Currently pursuing a degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Robotics or a related field.

  Minimum Requirements

• Experience with prototyping tools, 3D printing, and hands-on fabrication (we’re keen to learn about where you’ve applied these skills in extracurricular activities).

• General space technology and design challenge awareness.

• Proficient in CAD software for design (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360).

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

  Desirable Requirements

• Understanding of the engineering problems related to spacecraft design and the related technologies.

• Prior internship or project experience related to system design or mechanical prototyping in the aerospace or robotics industry is a plus.

• Knowledge of soft robotics and materials is beneficial.

• Any experience of working with machine vision systems.

Process details:

• 8 weeks minimum fixed term contract to be agreed with successful candidate

• In-person Induction Event to be held on 24th June 2024, and an in-person/hybrid Showcase Event to be held in Autumn 2024.

• 5 days holiday to be taken during the placement

• Find out more about SPIN and explore FAQs here.

If you think you can deliver this role then we want to hear from you, regardless of the boxes you didn’t tick.