Precision Pointing Engineer

About Aetherflux

Aetherflux is pioneering space-based solar power technology, focusing on designing satellites equipped with high-power laser systems to beam energy from space to Earth. We are building a dynamic team of engineers passionate about working at the forefront of optical, laser, and mechanical system design. Join us in revolutionizing energy delivery using cutting-edge technologies.

Overview

The Precision Pointing Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and optimization of satellite systems to achieve precise laser pointing and alignment. This role focuses on ensuring accurate positioning and stability of laser beams, which are critical for successful energy transmission from space to Earth. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including optical, mechanical, and systems engineers, to develop control algorithms, fine-tune system precision, and validate the pointing accuracy of our satellite platforms.

Responsibilities

• Pointing Control System Design: Develop and implement pointing and control algorithms to achieve high-precision laser beam steering and alignment in space environments.
• Hardware and Software Integration: Work closely with electrical, optical, and software engineers to integrate pointing control systems with satellite platforms, ensuring seamless coordination between hardware and control software.
• Precision Alignment: Design and test systems that ensure precise alignment of laser beams with ground-based receivers, taking into account environmental factors such as satellite motion, atmospheric distortion, and thermal effects.
• System Testing and Validation: Lead system-level testing and validation efforts, including lab simulations and in-orbit tests, to verify the pointing accuracy and stability of satellite laser systems.
• Performance Optimization: Conduct analysis to optimize system performance, improving beam precision and pointing accuracy while minimizing energy loss during transmission.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks related to pointing precision, such as system misalignment or external disturbances, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with optical, mechanical, and systems engineers to ensure pointing and precision systems are fully integrated and perform reliably in the space environment.
• Documentation and Reviews: Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, system models, test plans, and validation reports. Participate in internal and customer design reviews.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in control systems, pointing and tracking systems, or precision alignment technologies, ideally in aerospace or satellite applications.
• Proficiency in control system design and simulation software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink).
• Experience with high-precision mechanical systems and their integration with control electronics.
• Strong understanding of sensors, actuators, and feedback control loops used in precision pointing applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with space-based pointing systems, including laser beam steering or satellite-based communication systems.
• Experience with high-power laser systems and their application in space missions.
• Familiarity with satellite attitude control systems (ACS) and precision optics for space missions.
• Experience with environmental testing, including vibration, thermal-vacuum, and radiation testing.
• Knowledge of hardware-software integration for real-time control systems in aerospace applications.