Graduate Astrodynamics & Trajectory Optimization Intern

The Aerospace Corporation; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 44,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care

401(k) Plan

Relocation assistance

Education assistance

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a highly capable intern for the Emerging Missions Flight Dynamics Department, working on flight mechanics, orbital dynamics, and trajectory optimization problems. You will collaborate with civil, defense, and commercial customers to deliver deep technical solutions.

Applicants should be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program with strong coursework in orbital mechanics and programming in Python/C++/MATLAB.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree in aeronautical/astronautical engineering, physics or applied mathematics, or related disciplines is strongly desired.
• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and return to degree program after completion of internship.
• Undergraduate degree completed by internship start date.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply advanced techniques for solving flight mechanics and astrodynamics problems.
• Perform trajectory simulation and multi-objective optimization of constellations, spacecraft, missiles, and reentry vehicles.
• Analyze multi-objective combinatorial optimization / sequential decision-making problems (e.g., TSP, Facility Location, MDPs).
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team and academic partners on ongoing research.
• Apply standard techniques to carry out prescribed scientific/engineering tasks.
• Work on full-life-cycle projects from inception through launch.

Skills

Interdisciplinary teamwork

Written and verbal communication

Analytical problem solving

Education

Master’s or PhD in aeronautical/astronautical engineering, physics or applied mathematics

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a highly capable intern for the Emerging Missions Flight Dynamics Department, working on flight mechanics, orbital dynamics, and trajectory optimization problems. You will collaborate with civil, defense, and commercial customers to deliver deep technical solutions.

Applicants should be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program with strong coursework in orbital mechanics and programming in Python/C++/MATLAB.