Project Description:

Following our very successful SPIN placement last year and the year before, we are continuing research into small, yet still hazardous debris (1cm to 10cm) in Low Earth Orbit. This project is to assess the likelihood and the effect of collisions with small debris to the Astroscale docking plate which is used for Active Debris Removal We are seeking a technically minded intern to investigate multiple cases regarding this scenario.

This project will include:

• Researching and acquiring knowledge on the current understanding of the small debris population in-orbit, the risk it presents and the damage inflicted upon impact.

• Assessing the collision probability of the docking plate with small debris in various orbits using simulation.

• Determining any effects on the docking plate due to impact with micro-debris.

The intern will be provided with background information and internal training to support them with these activities, as required. This internship will include working closely with the engineering team.

Find out more about SPIN and explore FAQs here.

Applicant Specification:

• On track to complete a Bachelors or Masters degree (or equivalent) in engineering, science or mathematical discipline

• Interest/experience with the space or aerospace industry would be preferable

Minimum requirements:

• Experience in the use of a high-level programming language, ideally (or willing to learn) Python, and developing code to solve technical problems. 

• Analytical mindset and strong quantitative skills – ability to think critically and creatively, working with large datasets methodically, and drawing sensible, evidence-based conclusions

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) including relaying technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences 

• Ability to work in a team and individually 

• Self-motivated, proactive, and willing to take initiative  

• Working knowledge of MS Office tools (e.g. Excel, PowerPoint etc.). 

• Passion and enthusiasm

Desirable requirements:

• Experience in ESA MASTER software

• Experience in technical analysis of space sustainability and space debris 

• Experience in report writing 

Process details:

• 1 hour competency and skills based interview, conducted in person or online

• 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 Autumn 2024

• 5 days holiday to be taken during the placement

Who we are:

We aim to deliver cutting edge technologies that will become part of routine commercial space operations by 2030.

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space. We now have entities across Japan, UK, US, Israel and France, solving a global problem with a global team.

Across Astroscale we share a number of key values; mission and people focused, transparent, innovative and pioneering, diverse and customer focused.

This job description set outs the skills and experience we believe are needed to be able to do this job but, research also tells us women are much more likely than men to take this list of requirements as absolute and self-select out of the process. If you think you can deliver this role then we want to hear from you, regardless of the boxes you didn’t tick.