Project Description

The power beam of a space-based solar power satellite emits a directional beam of energy at a single wavelength towards an Earth-based rectenna. The purpose of the project is to understand whether this power beam can be used to detect in-space objects and if so, what the constraints or detection limits are. What knowledge about the system needs to be known by the detector in order to work effectively – or could a detector spacecraft effectively “freeload” on such a setup? If time permits, an early high-level concept design of the system (or Pre-Phase A) could be performed.

Who we're looking for:

The project will involve mathematical computation and/or simulation, which will have to developed in an environment of choice (e.g. Octave, Scilab or Python). The applicant should be able to conduct research independently, capturing key concepts and making conclusions with lacking information having to draw sound assumptions. To perform the research the individual might contact academia and industry and will collaborate with Catapult team members – excellent communication skills are required.

Skills & experience required:

• General engineering or science background, with understanding of electromagnetic waves or radar/antenna technology.

• The ability to conduct independent research using a variety of sources

• Computer literate as a minimum with Office packages and internet search engine use

• Excellent written English

• Excellent verbal communication

Desirable skills & experience:

• Electronic or electrical engineering background

• Knowledge of programming/scripting (Octava/Matlab, Scilab or Python) may be beneficial

• Space situational awareness

Process details:

8 weeks minimum fixed term contract to be agreed with successful candidate. In-person Induction Event to be held on 19 June 2023, and an in-person/hybrid Showcase Event to be held at the 2023 UK Space Conference in Belfast between 21 November to 23 November.

5 days holiday to be taken during the placement

How we work:

We strive to create a high trust environment that enables team members to bring their whole selves to work – this helps to create the foundations of an innovation culture. Our shared values are critical to this:

• We care - for our people, our partners, and our planet

• We connect - and engage with people and ideas

• We learn - and grow, as people and as an industry

Underpinning this is our belief in great teams, our combined efforts will always deliver outcomes beyond that of any individual providing we are honest through debate, experiment and reflect, and create shared resolutions in support of our purpose. Live these values, work to our principles, take ownership to deliver, and we are certain you will thrive with us.

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.