Intern in the Sustainability and Exergy Analysis, Space Habitats

Our team and mission

HRE-SU (Utilisation and Enabled Science) team at ESA coordinates the Agency’s research programme in physical sciences and biology under microgravity conditions and for space exploration. Using platforms like the International Space Station, as well as Moon and Mars missions, the team supports a wide range of cutting-edge research—from Earth atmospheric studies and quantum sensors to heat transfer phenomena, soft matter, and advanced materials processing.

Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int  

Field(s) of activity for the internship

You can choose between the following topics: 

1) Topic 1: Water simulation in Moon sub-surface 

On the Moon, water (H2O) and hydroxyl groups (-OH) are not found as free liquids but exist chemically bonded within minerals in the form of hydrates and hydroxides. Certain hypotheses suggest that the lunar daytime cycle may result in hydration, dehydration, and rehydration processes on the surface, leading to periodic hydration during parts of the lunar day. This internship will investigate subsurface water dynamics within the Moon's porous materials, with a focus on permafrost stability and brine migration, utilizing the Delft Advanced Research Terra Simulator (DARTS) developed at TU Delft. Building on prior research concerning water ice sublimation, the project intends to model the combined thermal and compositional processes that influence the stability of ground ice and the potential formation and movement of brines within the regolith. By simulating both diurnal and seasonal temperature variations alongside different salt concentrations, the aim is to analyze how subsurface ice changes and how brines might migrate or persist under current lunar conditions. The results are expected to aid in in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU), inform landing site selection, and contribute to research related to the search for past or present life on the Moon.
  

2) Topic 2: Comparative Analysis of Energy Efficiency in LEO Platforms: From CubeSats to Free-Flyers and Space Rider 

This internship aims to perform a comparative energy efficiency analysis of space platforms operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), ranging from small satellites like CubeSats to more complex systems such as free-flyers and ESA’s upcoming Space Rider vehicle. The research will investigate how different mission architectures, power generation strategies (e.g., solar arrays, battery cycling), thermal environments, and duty cycles affect energy availability, conversion losses, and overall system performance. Using an exergy-based framework, the study will assess the thermodynamic efficiency and operational sustainability of each platform type, considering both steady-state and transient scenarios (e.g., eclipse phases, payload activity peaks). The goal is to identify trade-offs in platform design from an energy systems perspective and inform strategies for improving energy utilisation in future autonomous, crewed, or servicing missions in LEO.

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking

For more information, please refer to ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook

Education

You must be a university student, preferably studying at master’s level. In addition, you must be able to prove that you will be enrolled at your University for the entire duration of the internship.

Additional requirements

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another ESA Member State language is an asset.

During the interview, your motivation for applying to this role will be explored.

Knowledge and background in the following topics is an asset:

• Strong knowledge and experience of Modelling tool (Matlab, Python);
• Knowledge in fluid dynamics and thermodynamic (Energy, Exergy, Enthalpy).