Internship/ Thesis in Gaimersheim bei eːfs Techhub GmbH

e:fs TechHub GmbH is a strategic partner for the development of superior future technologies and software solutions in the area of mobility and beyond. We combine the highest quality and innovative strength with positive energy and collaboration at eye level.

Investigating advanced methods for spacecraft attitude control

e:fs TechHub, specifically e:space, uses the outstanding know-how and long-term experience in technology development from automotive in space applications.

The objective of this thesis is to investigate state-of-the-art methods and algorithms from the literature for safe and efficient control of a spacecraft in orbit using usual actuators such as reaction wheels. Modern algorithms such as robust or learning-based MPC (model predictive control) will be analysed and assessed. Selected algorithms will be implemented and validated using simulations and on a prototype. An ADCS (Attitude determination and control system) test bed and a satellite prototype has been already developed and used at e:fs. An important part of this work will also be the further development, testing and expansion of the existing testbed.

Tätigkeiten

• Literature survey on modern methods of advanced MPC for s/c attitude control
• Theoretical analysis and adjustment of available algorithms for the relevant scenarios as well as derivation of algorithms extensions for application on a spacecraft. The algorithms will consider realistic disturbances and unknowns in orbit
• Implementation and validation of the algorithms using a simulation
• Further development and expansion of an existing ADCS test bed and a satellite prototype
• Implementation and validation of the algorithms using on the satellite prototype
• Documentation, conclusion, and presentation of the results

Profil

• Ongoing studies in aerospace, mechatronics, electrical engineering, mathematics or computer science and an interest and enthusiasm for research-oriented development in control and space
• You also have very good skills in control theory and optimisation
• You have a well-structured and results-oriented way of working
• Your programming skills in Python and/or Matlab are very good
• Your experience with ROS and C++ as well as design and construction of mechatronic prototypes is a plus
• Your knowledge in Machine Learning and your experience with implementation of neural networks is a plus
• Very good English or German skills are a must have.