Master´s Thesis (f/m/x) - Design of a Space Architecture for Maritime Security

What to expect

At RSC³ within the Space Segment department, we are seeking a motivated master’s student to contribute to an innovative research project on maritime security from space. This work is part of a  collaboration with various DLR institutes, focusing on the development of multi-domain sensors and services to address critical maritime security challenges.

Your role will involve designing a hybrid space architecture that leverages existing satellite systems from diverse operators to deliver timely, reliable, and efficient data for maritime security applications. The architecture will assess performance metrics (e.g., revisit time, coverage, latency, and redundancy) while identifying gaps in current capabilities and proposing theoretical or conceptual improvements. 

The Space Segment department is a dynamic, interdisciplinary team with a strong focus on innovation. You will collaborate closely with senior researchers, engineers, and students working on a wide range of space-based security applications, providing an ideal environment for learning and professional growth.

Your tasks

• analyse and understand use cases and requirements for Hybrid space Architecture derived from martime security scenarios (e.g. protecting underwater cable or an off-shore windpark)
• research existing relevant satellite systems
• simulate satellite systems and derive performance parameters like system response time and coverage
• identify gaps and identify theroetical improvements to the architecture
• develop recommendations for future system evolutions

Your profile

• enrollment in a master’s program in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field with a focus on space systems, remote sensing, or satellite technologies
• experience with mission design analysis
• good knowledge of orbit mechanics and constellation design
• experience with apropriate Simulation software (e.g. STK, GMAT, Astos) as well as basic programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for automation/simulation tasks.
• very good communication skills (English and/or German)
• high level of autonomy, curiosity, and problem-solving ability

Remuneration will be paid up to pay group 05 TVöD depending on qualifications and tasks assigned.