Flight Dynamics Engineer

Astroscale UK is Astroscale is seeking to employ an experienced and motivated Flight Dynamics Engineer for a position at our facility based in Harwell, UK. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and rapidly growing company making a positive contribution to the growing problem of orbital debris that endangers humankind’s use of space as an asset.

Astroscale’s Flight Dynamics group is a growing, international team of experienced, aspiring engineers. We look to bring robust, innovative concepts into the trajectory planning and optimization processes whilst developing relative orbit determination mechanisms, streamlining the operational interfaces with all information related to the spacecraft’s surroundings – including that of nearby objects.

The successful candidate will experience a range of orbital environments and scenarios as we perform not only the standard operational life-cycle but also rendezvous, docking and separation activities with passive and active clients. The role will include the design, development, testing and operations of the complete Flight Dynamics suite whilst collaborating with different systems and entities across the World.

Responsibilities 

 

• Develop the mission design of the spacecraft, from requirements derivation and Concept of Operations (ConOps) down to algorithm definitions and interface specifications.
• Perform modelling, simulation, analysis and optimization in mission design, orbital manoeuvres and orbit estimation.
• Develop Solar Radiation Pressure and drag tables based upon articulating models.
• Develop state-of-the-art Flight Dynamics telemetry monitoring and command generation tools.
• Interface with the Space Situational Awareness (SSA) providers to ensure safe passage for our orbiting craft and promote safe practice for all flight operations.
• Support real-time operations of the spacecraft including flight dynamics operations, manoeuvre planning, execution and assessment, relative orbit estimation and multi-object orbit determination.
• Support critical operations, including Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP), rendezvous, docking, separation and end-of-life.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, software engineering or relevant science discipline.
• Experience in spacecraft flight operations
• Experience in programming – Matlab and Python desirable
• Calm and organised approach to work
• Ability to multitask

 

Desirable skills

 

• Masters or Doctorate in relevant field
• Experience using Linux and scripting
• Experience in regression testing and version control
• Education or experience in Mission Analysis
• Education or experience in image processing
• Education or experience in Guidance, Navigation and Control
• Familiarity in Flight Dynamics design architecture

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Opportunity to work with a highly talented, diverse & dynamic international team with cutting edge technology
• Flexible working around core hours in a friendly and supportive environment
• Hybrid working available (dependent on individual role requirements)
• 25 days holiday (increasing yearly up to a maximum of 28 days) + 8 days Bank Holiday
• Life insurance and long-term sick pay
• Private healthcare (taxable benefit)
• Relocation allowance
• Visa sponsorship for employees considered
• New state of the art office and cleanroom facility
• Regular social events 
  

Location

Astroscale UK (Harwell) ), with potential for some travel to Astroscale Japan (Tokyo)

About Astroscale

We aim to deliver cutting edge technologies that will become part of routine commercial space operations by 2030.

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space.

Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Note to recruitment agencies: Astroscale operates a preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency approaches. Please do not forward candidate CVs or details in response to this advert, or to any Astroscale employee.