Our team and mission

This position is based at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) – Noordwijk, Netherlands

Under the direct authority of the Future Missions and Architecture Department, the Future Missions and Instruments Division is responsible for preparatory activities for future missions and instruments including:

• Elaborating new mission and instrument concepts, and establishing the related technology development requirements;
• Implementing preparatory activities for all missions before Phase A;
• Conducting Phase A for all ESA missions not yet approved for implementation (i.e., including Earth Explorers but excluding Copernicus and meteorological missions);
• Participate in the implementation of Phase A for Copernicus and meteorological missions.
• Establishing in coordination with other departments, their programmatic frame (Cost at Completion, schedule, procurement, and geo-return) and handing the mission dossier (technical, programmatic, scientific) for a joint feasibility review prior to implementation;
• Implementing an extensive plan of future technologies research and development activities together with the Directorate of Technology, acting as point of contact for technology preparation for the Directorate, and for any matters related to ESA’s Discovery, Preparation and Technology Development Programme and General Support Technology Programme;

among others.

For further information visit our web site: http://www.esa.int

Field(s) of activity for the internship

Topic: Interference simulation for frequency management

Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI) is a growing concern for microwave sensors in Earth Observation space mission. One of the best approaches to minimize RFI is to define rules for the use of the electromagnetic spectrum in a way that ensures protection of those microwave sensors. Most of these rules are decided in the framework of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations. In order to define these rules, technical studies are performed that look into whether potential new spectrum users will cause interference to incumbent and future users.

As an intern, you will help develop and evaluate software tools to perform these studies. In particular, you will consider the RFIATnet software, and its usefulness and shortcomings for studying RFI to Earth Observation sensors from a variety of terrestrial applications. For example, one case study that he/she could consider is the coexistence between high-frequency active and passive sensors and potential new radars systems that may be deployed near railways and airports. You will be part of the Technology Coordination and Frequency Management Section within the Future Missions and Instrument Division.

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

You must have student status and be enrolled at university for the entire duration of the internship. You should preferably be in your final or second to last year of a university course at master’s level in a technical or scientific discipline.

Additional requirements

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

Additional Requirements:

• Active and passive microwave sensors
• Orbital mechanics
• Link budget calculations
• Good communication skills
• Good presentation skills