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Masterthesis (f/m/x) - Investigating Space Debris Visualization for Mission Control and Planning
Job Description
Req ID:  5119
Place of work:  Braunschweig
Starting date:  As soon as possible
Career level:  Student research project and final thesis
Type of employment:  Part time, Full-time
Duration of contract:  up to 6 months

Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector - Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)

Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V.; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 12,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!

Short Description of Institute/Facility -  Please insert text

The Research Project 

In recent years, several comprehensive catalogues for relational space debris information have been developed and put into operation. These databases contain millions of entries, providing vital metadata such as orbital parameters, object size, and satellite origin and many more. For the design and execution of future satellite missions, this information is indispensable for identifying and maintaining safe orbits. However, the sheer volume of data presents a significant challenge: simple 3D renderings of planned trajectories amidst a cloud of debris do not provide sufficient actionable insights for mission planners

 

The Research Questions 

This thesis investigates how to transform raw orbital data of the spacecraft and debris into meaningful visualizations that directly inform end-users when and where a mission profile might become critical. A key focus is the representation of uncertainty - specifically the risk of secondary debris generation from potential collisions. The research should explore whether volume-based visualization on spatial density offers a more intuitive understanding of high-risk zones compared to individual trajectory plotting. Furthermore, the study identifies the interaction patterns, such as spatio-temporal filtering and linked 2D-3D views, required for effective orbital exploration.

 

Your Qualification 

  • You are studying in Computer Science, Mathematics, Data Science, or similar courses
  • You own good knowledge in programming, preferably in C++
  • Furthermore, you have interest in high-quality software development
  • Ideally you also have basic knowledge of computer graphics and know the topic of visual analytics
  • And you are a team player with creativity, independence and personal responsibility

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.

We look forward to getting to know you!

 

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 5119) please contact:

 

Prof. Dr. Andreas Gerndt 
Tel.: +49 531 295 2782 
Apply now