Internship | Foldable Reflectarray for small cubesat applications

About this position

How can high-gain antennas be designed for small Cubesat systems?

What will be your role?

Reflectarrays are an attractive solution for high gain antenna systems in space (Earth observation, SATCOM, etc.). High gain antennas usually are implemented by using quasi-optical systems realized by one or more curved reflectors (Parabola, Cassegrain, Gregorian, etc.). Such a type of antenna system can be challenging to realize foldably, in order to be mounted in a small cubesat much smaller than the size of the antenna. Reflectarrays mimic the curved reflector with flat panels filled with multiple passive radiating elements, allowing the realization of high-gain antenna systems, more suitable to be folded and integrated into a small cubesat platform. The main goal of this project is to study a foldable reflectarray solution in terms of radiating element and quasi-optical system, in order to minimize the losses and therefore maximize the gain. The Department of Radar Technology is a passionate and creative group of professionals (60 people) dedicated to the specification, development, and evaluation of innovative, high-performance MMICs, miniaturized and integrated RF subsystems, antennas, and front-ends. The department is at the heart of novel, game-changing radar system and signal processing concepts for the military, space, and civil domains.

What we expect from you

You are in the final stages of your degree in electrical engineering or a similar degree and have some track record in the field of applied electromagnetism and antennas. You have experience in programming in Matlab or Python, you are pragmatic and focused on making things work. Next to technical expertise, we value communication skills and a results-driven attitude.

What you'll get in return

You want an internship opportunity at the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope to get the best out of yourself. 😊 Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euros for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses, or the yearly ski trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. At TNO, we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.

"At TNO, we thrive on blending diverse perspectives to empower innovation that changes lives every day." — Alessandro Garufo, Researcher