Intern GNC

About Rocket Factory Augsburg

At Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), we have one clear goal: to create low-cost, flexible, and reliable access to space. We specialize in building small launch vehicles designed to deploy satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond. Together with you, we aim to revolutionize space services and help improve life on Earth. Sounds interesting? Then join our journey and become part of the team driving the New Space movement in Europe.

About the Team

Our international and agile team is searching for a motivated Intern in Flight Dynamics & GNC for Reusable Launch Vehicles. You enjoy working in a dedicated, dynamic and international environment that aims for high-performance engineering solutions in aerospace technology? Are you excited by the prospect of developing algorithms and testing flight software on real hardware to guide a first stage from re-entry to a precision landing? Join our team and help shape the future of spaceflight. 

Your Tasks

• Develop multi-body mathematical models for entry, descent and landing dynamics and design autonomous guidance algorithms for real-time trajectory optimization that ensures precision landing within operational limits 

• Develop optimal control allocation strategies across TVC, RCS and aerodynamic control surfaces, managing highly non-linear aerodynamic regimes and cross-axis coupling during flight 

• Design and build HIL test infrastructure to validate software on real flight avionics and conduct trade studies to select optimal landing sensor architectures and testing environments 

• Perform FMEA, run extensive Monte Carlo simulations with failure injection and implement health-checks to trigger safe diversion trajectories away from the landing site if vehicle systems are compromised 

• Architect ground systems and interfaces to support landing operations 

Your Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in Bachelor or Master studies in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related discipline 

• Demonstrated experience in numerical simulation, optimization or control algorithms (proven through academic projects, student competitions or prior industry experience) 

• Background in mathematical modelling in Matlab and Simulink 

• Experience working with Python, C/C++, Git 

• Independent, hands-on mindset with a structured and methodical approach to problem-solving