Summer 2027 - Flight Dynamics Internship

CesiumAstro•Huntsville, AL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

CesiumAstro is seeking a Flight Dynamics Intern for Summer 2027. The intern will support the development and operation of CesiumAstro missions through flight dynamics analysis involving space trajectories, spacecraft mission design, orbit determination, and maneuver planning. This project-based internship offers the opportunity to work on a flight dynamics assignment supporting an active program or future mission concept. The intern will work closely with CesiumAstro engineers on trajectory design and optimization, maneuver targeting, sensitivity and uncertainty analysis, and the development and validation of flight dynamics tools. Interns will present their work to peers, mentors, and CesiumAstro executive leadership, so strong communication skills are essential. The internship is compensated and located onsite at one of CesiumAstro’s facilities. Applicants must satisfy the stated U.S. government space technology export-control eligibility requirements.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, or PhD program in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
Completed coursework in orbital mechanics and additional coursework in flight dynamics, GNC, numerical methods, or related areas.
Hands-on experience using Python for engineering simulation, data analysis, and scripting.
Demonstrated motivation to build, analyze, and solve challenging technical problems through personal, work, or school projects.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, conditional resident, asylee, refugee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Coursework or project experience in trajectory optimization, spacecraft mission design, launch vehicle design, estimation, or probability and statistics.
Familiarity with mission and trajectory analysis tools such as STK, GMAT, FreeFlyer, POST, OTIS, or similar.
Experience with numerical optimization, targeting methods, sensitivity analysis, uncertainty analysis, or Monte Carlo simulation.
Familiarity with software development practices including Git, software testing, documentation, and Linux.
Experience developing or validating physics-based simulations for spacecraft, launch vehicles, or other aerospace systems.

Responsibilities

Support the development and operation of CesiumAstro missions through flight dynamics analysis.
Work on a project supporting an active program or future mission concept.
Collaborate with engineers on trajectory design and optimization, maneuver targeting, sensitivity and uncertainty analysis, and developing and validating flight dynamics tools.
Present work to peers, mentors, and CesiumAstro executive leadership.