In-Orbit Services GNC Engineer - Relative Navigation

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

We are seeking a highly skilled GNC Engineer with a strong background in relative navigation to join our team during the preliminary design phase of an innovative in-orbit services spacecraft. In this role, you will be responsible for integrating the relative navigation module into the main GNC framework, developing simplified navigation performance models, and planning/executing Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) tests to validate GNC performance. Your expertise will directly contribute to the spacecraft’s ability to autonomously rendezvous, dock, and perform precision operations in orbit.

Key Responsibilities

1. Relative Navigation Module Integration

• Integrate the relative navigation module into the main GNC framework, ensuring seamless communication and data flow between subsystems.

• Collaborate with software and systems engineers to define interfaces and protocols for relative navigation sensors (e.g., LiDAR, vision-based systems, RF).

2. Development of Simplified Navigation Performance Models

• Design and implement simplified yet accurate models to predict and analyze navigation performance under various mission scenarios.

• Develop tools and scripts (e.g., Python, C++) to simulate relative navigation performance, including error budgets and sensitivity analyses.

• Validate models against high-fidelity simulations and empirical data.

3. Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Testing

• Plan, design, and execute HIL tests to validate the GNC system’s performance, with a focus on relative navigation accuracy and robustness.

• Develop test cases and scripts to simulate dynamic in-orbit conditions, sensor noise, and fault scenarios.

• Analyze test results, identify discrepancies, and propose corrective actions to improve system reliability.

4. Collaboration and Documentation

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., avionics, propulsion, mission operations) to ensure GNC requirements are met.

• Document technical designs, test procedures, and results in clear, concise reports for internal and external stakeholders.

• Support design reviews, risk assessments, and trade studies related to relative navigation and GNC architecture.

What we would love to see from you

In the role of In-Orbit Services GNC Engineer, ideally, you will have the following:

• Education: Master’s or PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on GNC or autonomous systems.

• Technical skills: Proficiency in GNC algorithm development (e.g., Kalman filtering, sensor fusion, optimal control). Experience with relative navigation sensors (e.g., LiDAR, optical cameras, RF ranging) and their integration into GNC systems. Familiarity with HIL testing environments (e.g., dSPACE, Speedgoat, or custom setups).

• Experience: Hands-on experience in GNC system development, with a strong emphasis on relative navigation for spacecraft

• Programming Skills: Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++).

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

• Feedback: Willingness to give proactive and mindful feedback across all company levels.

• Mindset: Passion for advancing sustainability in the space industry and highly motivated to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up environment.

• Languages: Fluent in English.

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:  

• We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind 

• We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them  

• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?  

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly. 
 
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.