Intern in the Optics Section

Internship Opportunity in the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality

Location: European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) - Noordwijk, Netherlands

Our Team and Mission

The Mechanical Department is responsible for:

• Automation and robotics
• Life and physical sciences instrumentation
• Life support, optics, opto-electronics
• Structures, mechanisms, materials
• Thermal control, propulsion, and aero-thermodynamics
• Verification of space vehicles systems and subsystems

The position is offered in the Optics Section providing functional support to ESA projects and carrying out technology research (R&D) in optics for space applications. The Optics Section develops novel optical systems like:

• Spectro-radiometric imaging instruments (UV to infrared)
• Interferometers and relevant optical ground equipment

The section is responsible for a wide range of technologies addressing optical components and processes, including:

• Polarisers, gratings, coatings, and polishing methodologies
• Metrology of optical components
• Development of technologies for the next generation of X-ray space telescopes

Field(s) of Activity for the Internship

1) Topic 1: Modelling of Optical Instruments

Hyperspectral optical imaging systems offer unique sensing capabilities for satellite-based earth observation. These missions enable assessments of vegetation health, monitoring of greenhouse gases, and improvement of climate models. Accurate simulation of their operation in space, using customized end-to-end mission performance simulators, is critical despite challenges in simulating the complex image acquisition chain.

During the internship, you will study hyperspectral imaging systems for remote sensing, focusing on optical performance modelling. Initially, review and develop an understanding of models like ray tracing or Fourier optics for performance predictions. The goal is to assess the impact of model limitations based on a real instrument example. You'll develop and apply numerical simulation and analysis tools using software such as Matlab, Python, and Zemax OpticStudio. Finally, explore concepts to overcome modelling constraints and improve simulation accuracy.

Your work will support enhancing end-to-end optical performance simulations of earth observation instruments. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and contribute your unique perspective. By the end of the internship, gain experience in the operation of hyperspectral imagers for space-based remote sensing and theoretical analysis.

2) Topic 2: Integration of an Optical Test Set-up

The final phase of developing optical instrumentation for space involves integration, alignment, and testing. Testing uses dedicated optical set-ups to measure performance parameters like imaging quality, spectral response, and radiometric sensitivity.

Study various configurations for optical testing and characterization. You will design and implement an optical testing element – a collimator – that simulates an optical source at infinity for testing Earth observing instruments. Implement the set-up in the Optics Lab, explore alignment methods, and perform alignment using tools like theodolites or laser trackers. Verify performance with commercial test equipment.

Behavioural Competencies

• Result Orientation
• Operational Efficiency
• Fostering Cooperation
• Relationship Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Forward Thinking

Education

You must be a university student, preferably in your final or second-to-last year of a Master’s level course, and remain enrolled at your university for the internship's entire duration.

Additional Requirements

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. Knowledge of one of these languages is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.

Other Information

ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

At the Agency, we value diversity and welcome people with disabilities. We strive to accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing necessary workplace support. The Human Resources Department can provide recruitment process assistance. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at contact.human.resources@esa.int.

Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Nationals from Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Slovenia as Associate Member States, or Canada as a Cooperating State, can apply as well as from Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus as European Cooperating States (ECS).