Archangel Lightworks is a laser communications company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future.  Joining us as Lasercom Control Systems Engineer Intern, you will have the opportunity to work on advanced control algorithm development in a fast-paced, supportive startup environment. 

You will be working with a fun, experienced, and forward-thinking team to deliver transformative free-space laser communications solutions to help solve some of Earth’s most critical problems, from economic inclusion to climate change. But that’s not all! We work extensively with aerospace primes, space agencies and specialist research partners which will provide you with exposure to cutting-edge technologies and exciting challenges. You will be an integral part of a growing team which has already won international prizes and awards including having completed the Catalyst Accelerator which is backed by the US Air Force, Space Force and Microsoft. 

Project Description: Advanced Control Algorithm Development For Satellite Laser Ground Stations

• The project is centred around satellite laser communication (lasercom), a burgeoning technology in the space sector known for its significant advancements in bandwidth, security, and spectrum efficiency compared to traditional radio technology. A pivotal aspect of this technology is accurate pointing, acquisition, and tracking, which are fundamental for the next generation of optical communication terminals. 

  The focus of this project is to develop high-performance satellite orbital models and integrate these with Optical Ground Station (OGS) control systems. This integration is crucial for establishing robust optical links. The project aims to create a simulation environment and a baseline algorithm that enhances the orbit/position knowledge of optical communication terminals. The development process will primarily utilize MATLAB/Simulink and may incorporate third-party tools and packages, such as NASA’s General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT). 

  The project will progress through the following stages: 

  • Requirements Definition and Scoping: Collaborating with supervisors and team members to comprehend the problem, its relevance to OGS operations, and the algorithm's scope. This stage involves defining key performance indicators for the algorithm. 

  • Architectural Definition and Design: Establishing the architecture for the simulation and algorithm, alongside drafting a detailed implementation plan. 

  • Implementation and Simulation: Executing the chosen approach and simulating its efficacy. 

  • Reporting and Results Presentation: Documenting the design and development process, addressing any issues or observations, and evaluating performance. This phase concludes with presenting findings and recommendations to the broader team. 

  The project's specific focus may be tailored to the selected applicant's profile, possibly concentrating on a particular aspect of the challenge.

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Minimum requirements:

• Currently enrolled in or a recent graduate (within the last two years) of a Bachelor's or Master's program in Control Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a closely related field.

• Fundamental Knowledge: Basic understanding of control systems, orbital mechanics, and data analysis.

• Technical Proficiency: Introductory level experience with MATLAB and Simulink or similar computational tools.

  Desirable requirements:

• Advanced Coursework: Completed coursework or projects in control systems engineering, Satellite GNC, orbital dynamics.

• Practical Experience: Previous internship, research, or project experience in satellite technology, optical communications, or control system design.

• Software Skills: Advanced proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink, with additional experience in using simulation software like NASA’s GMAT or similar tools.

• Python experience would be advantageous.

• Demonstrated academic excellence or participation in relevant extracurricular activities, workshops, or competitions related to aerospace or communication technologies.

Process details:

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

• £24,000 annual salary pro-rated to the duration of the internship

• 25 days of annual leave pro-rated to the duration of the internship plus bank holidays