DLR's Responsive Space Cluster Competence Competence Centre (RSC³) in Trauen is a unique research facility in Germany that addresses in a holistic way the topic of Responsive Space. This exciting field of research deals with the question of how to respond faster, more flexibly and securely in space with the goal of increasing the overall resilience of critical infrastructures in space. To this end, innovative concepts and technologies are analyzed, developed and demonstrated at the RSC³.
What to expect
In responsive space applications, rapidly deployable satellites are essential to temporarily compensate for the loss of satellite assets. One approach to address this need is through pre-positioned satellites in space. These satellites could be commercially operated and lowered into elliptical VLEO (Very Low Earth Orbit) trajectories to temporarily provide enhanced resolution or performance. Due to the increased atmospheric density in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), spacecraft are subjected to significantly higher thermal loads, necessitating design adaptations to maintain operational integrity and survivability. A current mission study at DLR is focused on characterizing the atmospheric environment and aerothermodynamic interactions at these altitudes, with the objective of quantifying thermal loads across a range of orbital heights.
The objective of this thesis is to analyze the influence of these thermal loads on the satellite bus and instruments using a FEM Software, and to derive design adaptions that enable sustained operation in the lowest feasible orbital regimes.
Your tasks
* building an FEM model representing a 16U CubeSat design
* simulating the heat loads during different LEO-to-VLEO mission phases
* identifying critical temperatures for points in the thermal design
* developing passive and active measures to improve survivability in lower orbits (e.g., MLI, heat shields, radiators)
* quantifying the system-level cost of the different thermal protection measures
* identify an ideal orbital altitude by weighing the higher system mass for lower orbits against the lowered instrument mass
Your profile
* Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a technical field such as aerospace engineering, physics, electronics, mechanical engineering, or similar
* ability to work independently and in a structured manner
* experience in thermal analysis in the context of space engineering
* experience with thermal modeling using Ansys, Comsol or Esatan or a comparable FEM software
* very good language skills in German or English (ideally both)
Remuneration will be paid up to pay group 05 TVöD depending on qualifications and tasks assigned.
We look forward to getting to know you!
If you have any questions about this position ( Vacancy-ID 1808) please contact:
David Kleemann
Tel.: +49 5055 596 52