Job Description:

Lunar landing is a classic control problem where a lander must navigate and land safely on the surface while minimizing fuel consumption and ensuring stability. This project aims to develop a reinforcement learning (RL) model using OpenAI Gym's LunarLander-v2 environment to simulate and optimize lunar landings. The project will involve a literature survey on RL algorithms, implementation in Python, and performance evaluation of various approaches.

During this internship, a successful candidate will:

• Develop a reinforcement learning agent capable of autonomously landing a lunar module.

• Explore different RL algorithms, such as Deep Q-Networks (DQN), Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO), and Advantage Actor-Critic (A2C).

• Compare the performance of these algorithms based on landing accuracy, fuel efficiency, and training time.

• Implement and test the solution using OpenAI Gym's LunarLander-v2 environment.

• Provide insights into the effectiveness of RL for real-world autonomous landing scenarios.

The successful applicant should have the following qualities and abilities:

Academic:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program in Aerospace, Space or Machine learning or other relevant discipline

Minimum requirements:

• Python programming language skills

• Passionate about Astroscale’s mission to make space safe, sustainability and secure.   

• Enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree 

• Available full-time during the summer  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite 

• Good interpersonal, organisational, and written/verbal communication skills including to both technical and non-technical audiences 

• Demonstrated ability to collect, evaluate and synthesize multiple sources of information, e.g. articles and research papers 

• Analytical mindset and strong quantitative skills – ability to think critically and creatively

• Ability to appreciate both technical and commercial drivers to assess feasibility.

Desirable requirements:

• Relevant previous internships or project experience 

Process details:

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

• 5 days holiday to be taken during the placement

Working at Astroscale:

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.

Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.