This position is based at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) - Near Cologne, Germany
The Software and Artificial Intelligence Team, drives innovation in HRE projects and initiatives across diverse exploration destinations such as LEO, the Moon, Mars, and Earth analogues. The team develops and integrates advanced software and AI technologies to support flight experiments, operational tools, and simulators. By creating and executing strategic plans, we ensure alignment with ESA and HRE objectives, while exploring and using cutting-edge technologies like AI, XR (eXtended Reality), IoT (Internet of Things), and Quantum Computing to enhance mission capabilities for both flight and ground segments.
As a central hub for software innovation, the team collaborates with internal and external tech experts to highlight the crucial role of advanced software in exploration. The team is structured around four core pillars: AI, XR, IoT, and Quantum technologies, with data serving as a foundational element throughout. This comprehensive approach ensures the effective integration of state-of-the-art technologies, positioning the team at the forefront of exploration advancements.
The Team for AI and Software aims to recruit 3 candidates. An internship duration of six months is preferred.
For Topics 1 and 2, you will be working with the AI section which is part of the Team for AI and Software in the Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration. AI plays a crucial role in enabling future space missions. From mission planning, smart space station companions and chatbots to automated navigation and route planning on other planets, it will be key to integrate AI-solutions into the future exploration roadmap.
For Topic 3, you will be working with the XR-Lab which is part of the Team for AI and Software in the Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration.
For further information visit our web site: http://www.esa.int
Field(s) of activity for the internship
You can choose between the following topics:
1) Topic 1: Develop AI solutions for human spaceflight operations using Large Language Models (LLMs)
Operating space stations such as the ISS or the Lunar Gateway requires the management, updating, and creation of vast amount of documentation. Working with the various different datasets can be very time-consuming. You will support the team that works on implementing solutions based on large language models to make this data more accessible and improve astronaut-related operations in general. You may be involved in the day-to-day project activities and / or might have the chance to develop prototypes to extend functionality.
2) Topic 2: Support the identification and development of a solid data infrastructure in support of future AI solutions
To prepare the Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration (HRE) for the future use and implementation of AI-enabled solutions, it is crucial to ensure that the data required for any such activities will be available, accessible, and that there is an appropriate governance framework in place. You will work with the team to identify which data is already available and which data will need to be gathered in the future to allow for the use of innovative software and in particular AI solutions. By identifying the gap between current data management practices and requirements for future application