Master Thesis (d/f/m): Probabilistic worst-case analysis of uncertain satellite systems

Job Description:

In order to support the AOCS/GNC & Flight Dynamics department, Airbus Defence and Space is looking for a

Master Thesis (d/f/m): Probabilistic worst-case analysis of parametric uncertainties in satellite systems

You are looking for a master thesis and want to get to know the work of an engineer? Then apply now! We look forward to you supporting us in the AOCS/GNC & Flight Dynamics department as a Masterand (d/f/m)!

• Location: Immenstaad
• Start: As soon as possible
• Duration: 6 months

Thesis topic

When a satellite’s control system is switched-on for the first time in orbit, it must operate as specified. Compared to other disciplines, in space, test campaigns within the final operational environment are not feasible. To make it even more challenging, considering uncertainty within robustness analysis is crucial, since every real physical system contains uncertain parameters.

The uncertainty analysis helps to quantify the influence of the uncertain parameters. The analysis ends up in the computation of a probability integral. For nontrivial simulation models, the integral is not solvable analytically. It has to be approximated numerically. Unfortunately, both accurate and efficient numerical integration of possibly high-dimensional integrals is limited by finite computational resources.

This thesis shall investigate advanced Monte Carlo algorithms Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) for accelerating Verification and Validation of Attitude and Orbital Control Systems (AOCS), e.g., Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) [Betancourt, A Conceptual Introduction to Hamiltonian Monte Carlo, 2018, arXiv:1701.02434]. Especially for performance requirements specified with a given probability level (of confidence), the method of HMC promises superior convergence compared to conventional approaches, e.g., (Markov Chain) Monte Carlo.

Current Earth-observations missions will serve as benchmark application examples.

Your location

At the Airbus site in Friedrichshafen you will be working on innovation where others spend their holidays. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Constance while having lunch in our canteen. And after work, join one of our many corporate sports groups to go running, sailing or skiing.

Your benefits

• Attractive salary and work-life balance with an 35-hour week (flexitime).

• Mobile working after agreement with the department.

• International environment with the opportunity to network globally.

• Work with modern/diversified technologies.

• At Airbus, we see you as a valuable team member and you are not hired to brew coffee, instead you are in close contact with the interfaces and are part of our weekly team meetings.

• Opportunity to participate in the Generation Airbus Community to expand your own network.

You will learn about
Applied statistics and uncertainty quantification, spacecraft attitude dynamics, autopilot robustness analysis.

Your tasks and responsibilities

• Develop deep understanding of Monte Carlo, Markov Chain Monte Carlo, and HMC algorithms

• Preparation and implementation of reference scenario for the AOCS Acquisition and Safe Mode

• Perform uncertainty analysis, based on existing toolboxes, e.g., Stan library

• Application to benchmark scenario

• Detailed comparison and assessment of efficiency gain

• Documentation of results

 Desired skills and qualifications

• Enrolled full time master student (d/f/m) within Aerospace Engineering or Cybernetics or similar field of study

• Strong in math and statistics

• First experience in uncertainty quantification beneficial

• Very good knowledge of MATLAB / Simulink

• Python, Julia, C++, or R helpful

• Languages: fluent in English (German is an asset)

Please upload the following documents: cover letter, CV, relevant transcripts, enrollment certificate. 

Not a 100% match? No worries! Airbus supports your personal growth.

Take your career to a new level and apply online now!

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Defence and Space GmbH

Employment Type:

Final-year Thesis

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Experience Level:

Student

Job Family:

Vehicle Mission & Control

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