|
 NASA Exploration System Mission Directorate
Higher Education Project
in partnership with the
National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program
ESMD Internship Information Page
NASA Exploration Internships General Information
These internships provide students ESMD-relevant work experience in industry or at a NASA center. Students will be engaged in hands-on engineering projects with a strong and involved mentor. Internships are open to juniors, seniors and graduate students.
- A stipend amount and length of internship will be decided by your
local Space Grant Consorium
- Selected students will be responsible for acquiring housing arrangements and travel plans
- Must be US Citizen
- For a list of acceptable forms for proof of citizenship click here.
- All applications will be approved by your local Space Grant Consortium.
- Students should contact their local Space Grant through their university
for more information concerning open slots and available funding.
- For your local Space Grant's contact information, please check this page.
Here is a link to our
Student Information Packet. In it you will find helpful information on the different aspects of the application process. As well as help navigating through PBMA to the different sections in which you will be involved.
If you have any questions, contact:
Mandi Falconer
ReDe/Critique, JV
ESMD Space Grant Project Specialist
Mailcode: RCJV-XA-1
Kennedy Space Ctr, FL 32899
Voice: (321) 867-4439
Fax: (321) 867-8007
E-mail: Mandi.C.Falconer@nasa.gov
Applying for internships at a NASA Center
Application deadlines:
Summer 2009 Internships
Underway
Fall 2009 Internships
June 30th
For a list of the available internships, please click here.
Please check here, for the list in PDF format.
NASA internships are contingent on project funding, mentor availability and management approval.
To apply for NASA Center internships, begin by contacting your local Space Grant, then go to the following link, sign up and apply for the appropriate semester.
Note: Space Grant Consortia in Alaska, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, New Jersey, Nebraska, Oklahoma,
Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Utah are not accepting applications through this link.
If you are selected for an internship at Goddard Space Flight Center, you are required to pay $3,500 for a unified summer program that provides infrastructure, housing and other activities that will yield in an enhanced summer experience. Your Space Grant Consortium may be able to help with this expense and your mentor may be able to contribute as well. However, ultimately, payment of this fee is your responsibility. Make arrangements with Mablelene Burrell Mablelene.S.Burrell@nasa.gov before you arrive.
Applying for Internships at Industry
All applications for internship opportunities at industry are available from your local Space Grant Consortium.
Internship Opportunities at NASA Centers
To jump to a certain center please use the following links:
Ames Research Center (ARC)
Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC)
Glenn Research Center (GRC)
Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC)
Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Johnson Space Center (JSC)
Kennedy Space Center (KSC)
Langley Research Center (LaRC)
Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC)
Stennis Space Center (SSC)
|
Project # |
Timeframe Needed |
Desired Majors |
Description |
|
Ames Research Center (ARC) |
|
ARC1-01-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Computer Science |
LUNAR UTILITY ROBOTICS: The
focus of this project is to develop utility robots and procedures to
automate lunar operations. Utility robots will perform: (1) tedious,
highly repetitive, long-duration tasks that can be off-loaded from
astronauts and (2) rapid response for addressing time-critical
situations. Example tasks include: systematic site surveys, mobile
camera platform, inspection, emergency response, site preparation,
instrument deployment. This project involves software development in
C++ under Linux and Java / Eclipse. |
|
ARC1-02-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
3D COMPUTER VISION: Since
1998, the NASA Ames Intelligent Robotics Group (IRG) has been
developing stereo vision software to automatically build
high-quality 3D terrain models from orbital images in a matter of
hours (with minimal or no human intervention). The goal of this
project is to adapt this software for use with the Mars
Reconnaissance Orbiter, historic Apollo camera images, and cameras
planned for the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. This project involves
software development in C++, focused on applied computer vision and
3D modeling. |
|
ARC1-03-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
REAL-TIME STEREO VISION FOR
ROBOT NAVIGATION: The goal of this project is to take advantage of
hardware-based stereo vision (GPU and FPGA acceleration) to enable
very fast obstacle avoidance, navigation, and terrain modeling for
mobile robots. This project involves computer vision theory,
cross-platform software development (Linux and C++), and mobile
robot testing. |
|
ARC1-04-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
ROBOT SYSTEM SOFTWARE: The
NASA Ames Intelligent Robotics Group (IRG) operates mobile robots
using a rich library of robot software. IRG is currently developing
a new "service oriented" architecture to make it easier to integrate
new hardware devices and algorithms. This project involves
developing new robot software systems and requires strong
knowledge/experience in C/C++ and distributed systems. |
|
ARC1-05-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
GIGAPAN: GigaPan is a
robotic camera mount (http://gigapan.org) that enables capturing
multi-gigapixel, explorable panoramas with most off-the-shelf
digital cameras. These panoramas have many uses: scientific
exploration (especially geology), inspection (structures, vehicles,
etc.), site recon/characterization. This project will improve
GigaPan in one (or more) of the following areas: user interface,
cross-platform software, image mosaicking, and High-Dynamic Range
imaging. |
|
ARC1-08-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science |
ROBOTIC AND ASTRONAUT
ACTIVITY PLANNING PROJECT: This work will focus on supporing the
planning of activities for the Mars Science Laboratory 2009 rover
mission as well as the NASA Extreme Enviornments Mission Operations
(NEEMO) underwared astronaut training lab. This project will provide
applied experience working as part of a Human-Computer Interaction
team at NASA. The work will include data collection and analysis for
current NASA missions. Skills required to support this work include
computer science. |
|
ARC1-10-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science, Other
Other: Psychology, Physiology |
MODELING HUMAN PERFORMANCE
PHYSIOLOGY: Overall Research Goal: To develop and validate
countermeasures to mitigate risks to neurobehavioral functions and
enhance health, performance and safety of crews during extended
duration spaceflight. To develop a real-time physiological model
that will predict or classify individual and team performance. Test
applications for biofeedback, neurofeedback, and other
self-regulation measures. Skills: (preferred) 1. Some programming
experience with Visual Basic, C/C++, Matlab. 2. Some familiarity
with digital signal processing techniques, in particular human
biomedical data (e.g., ECG, EEG). 3. Some experience with neural
network based models 4. Psychophysiology |
|
ARC1-11-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science, Other
Other: Psychology, Physiology |
MONITORING AND CORRECTING
HAZARDOUS OPERATION STATES: Overall Research Goal: To develop and
validate countermeasures to mitigate risks to neurobehavioral
functions and enhance health, performance and safety of crews during
extended duration spaceflight. Objectives: 1. To study how humans
adapt in space analog environments (e.g., isolation, confinement,
and sustained operations), and to identify individual
characteristics that best predict team performance; 2. To compare
the effectiveness of selected countermeasures for mitigating
performance impairments of individuals exposed to high-stress, high
workload situations; 3. To develop non-intrusive, portable methods
for self-detection and correction of adverse changes in
physiological states, mood states, and cognitive, perceptual, and
neuromotor function; 4. To develop a real-time physiological model
that will predict or classify individual and team performance.
Skills: (preferred) 1. Some familiarity with digital signal
processing techniques, in particular human biomedical data (e.g.,
ECG, EEG). 2. MS Office, including Excel 3. Psychology, physiology |
|
ARC2-06-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
3D MULTI-ROBOT USER
INTERFACE: "Viz" is an interactive 3D user interface developed by
the NASA Ames Intelligent Robotics Group (IRG). It allows mission
operations teams to remotely control mobile robots and to study the
data collected by the robots. This project will focus on improving
Viz: adding command sequencing tools for multiple robots,
incorporating speech and dialogue, adding predictive graphics (for
time-delayed teleoperation). This project involves software
development of multi-threaded Java applications, user interface
design, and an understanding of 3D graphics. |
|
ARC2-07-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
GROUND CONTROL SOFTWARE FOR
LUNAR SURFACE OPERATION: The NASA Ames Intelligent Robotics Group
(IRG) is developing a prototype ground control system to support
lunar surface operations (e.g., science exploration) involving
humans and robots. The goal of this project is to develop software
systems including 2D/3D user interfaces, ground data servers, and
group collaboration tools. This project involves programming in C++,
Java, and/or scripting languages (Python, PERL, etc.). |
|
ARC2-09-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
RISK MANAGEMENT FOR NASA'S
NEW MANNED SPACE PROJECT: Orion and Ares will replace Space Shuttle
as the new space vehicle to get astronauts, not only into orbit and
to the Space Station, but also to the surface of the Moon within the
next few years. This project will provide applied experience working
as part of a Human-Computer Interaction team on risk assessment and
management for NASA. The work will include data collection and
analysis for current NASA missions. Skills required to support this
work include computer science. |
|
ARC4-12-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
HAPTIC
COMPUTER INTERFACES FOR SPACE APPLICATIONS: Engineering
internship to work on programming, modeling, analysis, and
calibration for computer controlled haptic interfaces. |
|
ARC4-13-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
HUMAN PERFORMANCE DURING
LAUNCH VIBRATION: Engineering internship to work on programming,
modeling, analysis, and calibration for computer controlled seat
vibration simulator. |
|
ARC5-14-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science |
ADVANCED VISUALIZATION OF
COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS DATA: Advanced data analysis and visualization
techniques for large-scale simulation data, hyper-dimensional data,
real-time simulation data streams, and hyperwall environments.
Example applications include computational fluid dynamics,
structural dynamics, N-body systems, and computational chemistry.
Skills required: computer graphics. Students will learn C++ and
OpenGL programmin in real world development. Strong math background
is very helpful. |
|
ARC5-15-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
PROGRAMMING PARADIGMS AND
TOOLS FOR SUPERCOMPUTER APPLICATIONS: Supercomputer application
development programming paradigms and tools that significantly
reduce the effort and technical challenge of converting a
mathematical model or serial application code into a correct and
efficient supercomputer app code. Internship: Study one advanced app
dev programming paradigm by implementing it in a known benchmark
(such as one of the NAS Parallel Benchmarks), or conduct a user
study/survey to identify useful functionalities for parallel
programming tools SDC: Compare app dev programming paradigms or
develop new functionalilty or implementation techniques for a
programming paradigm or tool |
|
ARC5-16-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
SUPERCOMPUTER SYSTEM
BENCHMARKING: SPerformance Analysis, and Comparative Analysis.
Characterize the performance of an application on two or more
computer architectures and explain how architectural differences
impact performance, or develop a website to store, access, and
understand performance results; SDC: Compare benchmarking approaches
or prototype new benchmarking functionalilty. |
|
ARC5-17-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
USER SERVICES:
Supercomputer user environments with more intuitive, intelligent,
and integrated interface to support supercomuting resources,
services, and simulation data. Interns are expect to perform
established user environment task or study one advanced user
environment approach. |
|
ARC5-18-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
ADVANCED SUPERCOMPUTING
ARCHITECTURE R&D: This project is to improve price-performance
and/or programmability for NASA applications. Interns are expected
to study one advanced architecture; and compare supercomputer
architectures or prototype new architecture evaluation
functionality. |
|
ARC5-19-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
ENGINEERING FOR MANAGING
THE INFRASTRUCTURE OF PHYSICAL PLANT: Design and develop engineering
solutions for providing electrical and cooling resources for a large
supcomputing facility, including significant changes to equipment,
floorspace, electric power, and air/water cooling. Interns are
expected to perform established facility tasks or study one advanced
facility management approach. |
|
ARC5-20-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
DAVANCED NETWROKING &
OPTOMIZING END-TO-END COMMUNICATIONS: Advanced networking software
tools, techniques, and technologies, for improved bandwidth,
latency, reliability, and administration of supercomputing
interconnects, LANs, and WANs. |
|
ARC5-21-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science
Other: Psychology |
DATA COLLECTION FOR
EXPLORATION MISSION TEAM WORK SIMULATION: Exploration missions will
involve distributed team collaboration and decision making,
including space crews on the ISS or lunar surface and support
personnel on earth. Interns will assist with data collection from
laboratory and remote space analogue environments. |
|
ARC5-22-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science
Other: Psychology |
DATA ANALYSIS FOR
EXPLORATION MISSION TEAM WORK SIMULATION: Exploration missions will
involve distributed team collaboration and decision making,
including space crews on the ISS or lunar surface and support
personnel on earth. Interns will assist with data analysis from
laboratory and remote space analogue environments. |
|
ARC5-23-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Computer
Science |
LAB SUPPORT FOR EXPLORATION
MISSION TEAM WORK SIMULATION: Exploration missions will involve
distributed team collaboration and decision making, including space
crews on the ISS or lunar surface and support personnel on earth.
Interns will assist with software installation, Windows and Linux
system management for PC and Laptops. |
|
ARC5-24-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
SMALL SPACECRAFT - MISSION
DESIGN: Small spacecraft show great promise for future NASA
missions. Because of their nature, these spacecraft typically have
very low margins in mass, power, and propulsion. In order to make
these systems viable, NASA needs evaluate what is possible with
innovative concepts for microspacecraft landers, rovers, and
communications relays that could be used for very low cost robotic
lunar precursor missions. This project focuses on innovative mission
concepts for specific targets. |
|
ARC5-25-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
NASA TECHNOLOGY DATABASE:
Assist researchers in the determination of technology that affect
ESMD mission using next generation of NASA Technology Database and
explore approaches for improving NASA Technology Transfer meeting
OMB Requirements Interns will help model aspects of the technology
descriptions and maturity control and collect and analyze data as
needed. |
|
ARC5-26-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR
SUPERCOMPUTING SECURITY MANAGEMENT: This project is to improve
management tools for NASA supercomputing security. Interns are
expected to study various security mangement tools and work to
enhance their capability. This will involve prototyping of security
management software services. |
|
ARC5-27-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering |
SPACECRAFT HANDLING
QUALITIES PROJECT: Assist researchers in the determination of
factors that affect handling qualities for the next generation of
NASA spacecraft and explore approaches for improving these handling
qualities. Interns will help model aspects of the spacecraft control
sytem, run experiments in the Vertical Motion Simulator, and collect
and analyze data. |
|
ARC5-28-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Biomedical
Engineering, Computer Science |
INFORMATION DISPLAY FORMATE
FOR SURFACE EXPLORATION SPACE SUITS: Alternative system
architectures and display formats will be analyzed to determine
appropriate designs for space suit information displays to be used
during planetary exploration. Analyses will be based on optical,
biomechanical, perceptual and cognitive features of the systems
displays and controls. |
|
ARC5-29-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
DATABASE DEVELOPMENT FOR
ALTAIR (LUNAR LANDER) PROJECT: This project focuses on creation and
development of a database for Altair (Lunar Lander). The work
involves designing and developing user interfaces for system design
engineers. Interns are expected to gather requirement, model
interface, and develop prototypes and get users' feedback. Flex and
Flash will be used. |
|
ARC5-30-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Physics, Computer Science |
FAULT DETECTION,
DIAGNOSTICS, AND RESPONSE FOR ARES I: This project focuses on
develop a fault detection, diagnostics and response system for the
next generation of NASA rocket. Interns will help model aspects of
the rocket monitoring, control sytem, develop experiments to be run
in the simulator, and collect and analyze data. |
|
ARC5-31-09 |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
EXPLORATION LIFE SUPPORT
SYSTEM - AIR: NASA's Exploration Life Support program is charged
with developing the advanced technologies and systems that support
humans in extends space exploration. Advanced technology development
areas required for future human missions includes: atmosphere
revitalization, water recovery, waste processing and sensors. This
project will focus on atmosphere revitalization. |
|
ARC5-32-09 |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
EXPLORATION LIFE SUPPORT
SYSTEM - WASTE MANAGEMENT: NASA's Exploration Life Support program
is charged with developing the advanced technologies and systems
that support humans in extends space exploration. Advanced
technology development areas required for future human missions
includes: atmosphere revitalization, water recovery, waste
processing and sensors. This project will focus on waste
management/resource recover. |
|
ARC5-33-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
EXPLORATION LIFE SUPPORT
SYSTEM - WATER RECOVERY: NASA's Exploration Life Support program is
charged with developing the advanced technologies and systems that
support humans in extends space exploration. Advanced technology
development areas required for future human missions includes:
atmosphere revitalization, water recovery, waste processing and
sensors. This project will focus on water recovery. |
|
ARC5-34-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
EXPLORATION LIFE SUPPORT
SYSTEM - BIOSENSORS: NASA's Exploration Life Support program is
charged with developing the advanced technologies and systems that
support humans in extends space exploration. Advanced technology
development areas required for future human missions includes:
atmosphere revitalization, water recovery, waste processing and
sensors. This project will focus on biosensors/biochemistry. |
|
ARC5-35-09 |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
CFD APPLICATIONS - GRID
GENERATION: Assist in development of CFD grid generation over
complex aerodynamic shapes in support of aeronautic and space
applications. Interns are expected to use existing software packages
to generate grids for the purpose of creating aerodynamic databases. |
|
ARC5-36-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
CFD APPLICATIONS - RESULT
ANALYSIS: Assist in development of CFD result generation over
complex aerodynamic shapes in support of aeronautic and space
applications. Interns are expected to use existing software packages
to generate solutions for a wide variety of applications for the
purpose of creating aerodynamic databases. |
|
ARC5-37-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
PHOTONIC OR ELECTRONIC HIT
INDICATOR: MMOD impact detector for Orion: Further advance a
detector to determine the extent of MMOD damage to the Orion vehicle
for its ISS and Lunar missons. This detector has a low false
positive rate, uses minimial spacecraft resources and is based on a
DoE system used to determine strikes on ballistic missile targets. |
|
ARC5-38-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied
Mathematics, Computer Science |
PROGNOSTICS FOR COMPLEX
SYSTEMS -DAMAGE PROPATATION MODELING: The Prognostics Center of
Excellence at NASA Ames Research Center is conducting research in
systems health management. This involves the early assessment of
abnormal conditions and damage as well as the estimation of
"remaining life" of a component or subsystem. The goal is to
research damage propagation mechanisms and to model damage using a
physics-based approach for select application domains (e.g., power
semiconductors, electro-mechanical actuators, composite structures,
batteries. This project has a strong experimental component in the
lab of the Prognostics Center of Excellence. |
|
ARC5-39-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied
Mathematics, Computer Science |
PROGNOSTICS FOR COMPLEX
SYSTEMS - DEMONSTRATION TESTBED: The Prognostics Center of
Excellence at NASA Ames Research Center is conducting research in
systems health management. This involves the early assessment of
abnormal conditions and damage as well as the estimation of
"remaining life" of a component or subsystem. This project is a
hands-on project. The goal is to implement damaged components into a
testbed involving a real subsystem typically found in space
application domains. The task includes data acquisition, controls,
and data analysis. |
|
ARC5-40-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied
Mathematics, Computer Science |
PROGNOSTICS FOR COMPLEX
SYSTEMS: The Prognostics Center of Excellence at NASA Ames Research
Center is conducting research in systems health management. This
involves the early assessment of abnormal conditions and damage as
well as the estimation of "remaining life" of a component or
subsystem. The project involves both an experimental phase as well
as analysis of data. The goal is to contribute to the understanding
of how systems fail and how to predict failure. Prospective
candidates should be comfortable in using algorithm prototyping
languages like matlab. |
|
Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC) |
|
DFRC1-07-09-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Astronomy,
Astrophysics |
LINEAR MOTOR LAUNCH ASSIST:
Intern will work with NASA Mentor to model and develop
dynamic-simulations for linear motor launch assist concepts. |
|
DFRC1-08-09-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
LUNAR LANDE SIMULATOR:
Intern will work with NASA Mentor to develop interactive desktop
lunar lander simulator that models the terminal phase of the lunar
landing including the "gravity turn" and landing site selection.
Intern will also aid in development of simulators of earth-based
landing training vehicle, and perform flying quality comparisons to
lunar landing simulation. |
|
DFRC4-01-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
FLIGHT ABORT TEST PROGRAM |
|
DFRC4-02-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
FLIGHT ABORT TEST PROGRAM |
|
DFRC4-05-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science |
FLIGHT ABORT TEST PROGRAM:
Systems Engineering |
|
DFRC4-06-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science |
FLIGHT ABORT TEST PROGRAM:
Project Planning and Control Analyst (includes Risk Management,
Resources/Budgeting, Scheduling, Contracts and Public Affairs |
|
Glenn Research Center (GRC) |
|
GRC1-01-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechanics |
GRC AW1: Excavation,
Traction, and Material Flowability Measurements: Establish
preparation recipes for lunar-equivalent soil using triaxial shear
tests, penetration tests, and shear vane test. Use available wheel
constructions to determine traction on lunar-equivalent soils under
a matrix of operating conditions. Acquire excavator blades and
measure the horizontal and vertical forces to dig in
lunar-equivalent soil. Test validity/accuracy of traditional
granular flow equations on lunar-equivalent soil seeking to identify
the physics-based parameters that may be key to flow. All to develop
test bins and validation tools for engineering design of surface
systems. |
|
GRC1-02-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechanics |
GRC AW2: Finite Element,
Mesh Free, and Discrete Element Modeling Calculation to reproduce
simple measurements above (GRC AW1): Execute in a high performance
computing environment at GRC. From this determine what particle
parameters are needed to get responses equivalent to lunar soil.
This is a building block for future more complicated simulations.
All intended to develop modeling capacity that reduces lunar surface
field testing during surface system design and build work in the
future. |
|
GRC1-07-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Chemistry |
LUNAR DUST: Lunar dust is a
major issue for materials and equipment used on the moon. Developing
an understanding of the effect of dust on various materials used in
space suits which will be exposed to lunar dust is necessary for
up-coming missions. Baseline studies of space suit samples exposed
to dust in the Apollo program using microscopy and other chemical
analysis will be carried out based on availability. A selection of
fabrics and other materials proposed to be used in advanced surface
suits for up-coming missions will be exposed to lunar dust
simulants, analyzed and compared to previous results. |
|
GRC1-08-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Chemistry |
MONOLITH TESTING: Silica
aerogels are attractive candidates for unique thermal, optical,
catalytic, and chemical applications because of their low density
and high mesoporosity. However, their inherent fragility has
restricted their use to applications where they are not subject to
load. Crosslinking silica aerogels with polymer significantly
increases the strength of the aerogel with only a small effect on
density or porosity. In addition, at very low densities, the
aerogels crosslinked with a di-isocyanate are somewhat flexible. To
enhance this property and make the monoliths more robust, synthesis
of different formulations using more flexible linkages in the
polymer backbone is proposed. Characterization and mechanical
testing will be done on the monoliths produced and the properties
will be optimized. |
|
GRC1-09-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
SIMULATED LUNAR OPERATION:
Mechanical systems for the next generation lunar rover are developed
and tested. The Simulated Lunar OPEration (SLOPE) facility provides
a test vehicle and environment of simulated lunar surface terrain
including sloping section. Possible research topics are
terramechanics (interactions between wheels and various terrains),
drive train, and suspension. Interns will assist with design and fab
of components and/or conducting experiments to validate performance. |
|
GRC1-17-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics |
NAVIGATION FOR LUNAR AND
PLANETARY SURFACE SYSTEMS: The student will develop performance
analysis of lunar navigation systems in support of geo-locating
systems for the planetaryEVA suit. The student will use and extend
existing software tools that are part of the Space Navigation
Computational Laboratory (SNCL). The student will employ
Dilution-of-Precision (DoP), generalized DoP and full
covariance-based techniques to analyze systems employing inertial,
Earth-based and in-situ orbiting navigation resources for
radiometric measurements. |
|
GRC4-10-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
DEVELOPMENT OF CREW INJURY
PREDICTION MODELS FOR ORION: The design of Orion requires that NASA
develop a high fidelity understanding of the human body?s ability to
withstand the landing forces generated by the vehicle during
landing. Prediction of crew injuries during landing is critical to
mission success and is a major design driver for the program.
Currently the Brinkley model is used as the standard for crew injury
predictions. This model is based primarily on empirical data and
represents the human body analytically as a simple single
degree-of-freedom oscillator in the spinal, side-to-side and chest
in and out directions. The shortcoming of the Brinkley model is it
is specifically designed for ejection seat injury predictions using
a very specific seat arrangement and restraint system. The model is
unable to assess the effects resulting from alternate seat designs,
constraint systems, crew suits or helmets. Furthermore, the Brinkley
model is based on limited test data and does not utilize the latest
technology that is available from the automotive, aerospace or
biomedical communities. More recently these industries have employed
finite element technology to develop human body models to simulate
human behavior during events such as automobile crashes. These
models are able to predict full three dimensional human responses
during an event such as a crash and airbag deployment are able to
reliably predict the loading and deformations that occur within the
human body. The Exploration System Mission Directorate (ESMD) is
employing this technology for Orion and crew member injury
predictions using the following approach; 1) leverage existing human
body finite element modeling technology that has been developed for
the automotive, aerospace and biomedical communities and further
develop this modeling technology for application to Orion. 2)
Collect and develop injury criteria applicable to Orion. 3) Enhance
models to accommodate candidate seat designs, constraint systems,
crew suits and helmets. 4) Integrate human body models into Orion
landing scenarios and generate human body response. 5) Assess the
human body model and generated response to accepted injury criteria
as well as compare new human body model to currently used Brinkley
model. Final products will be validated human body finite element
models and associated injury criteria capable of modeling the crew
members, crew seats, harness, crew suit and helmet and a validated
set of injury criteria for Orion crew member injury predictions. |
|
GRC4-15-08-SU |
Summer |
Chemical
Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering |
CHEMICAL SENSORS: The
student will be involved in the characterization of fuel/gas leak
sensors and environmental chemical sensors, processing of data
associated with these sensors, and other activities associated with
the Chemical Sensors Team for CLV, CEV and ISRU. The student will be
involved in measurement of the response of a variety of different
types of gas sensors in range of temperatures and environments.
These sensor types include diodes, electrochemical cells, and
resistors. This work will include operation of a gas sensor testing
system, compiling the resulting data, and some computer programming.
The gas sensor testing system is computer controlled with the
ability to flow several gases over a wide flow range. The student
will operate this gas sensor testing system and use it to
characterize samples. Other duties in support of the chemical sensor
program will be performed as assigned. An Electrical Engineering
major is preferred with programming knowledge. |
|
GRC4-20-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
ADVANCED COMBUSTION VIA
MICROGRAVITY EXPERIMENTS (ACME): Contribute to the design of a set
of 4 experiments planned for the Combustion Integrated Rack on the
International Space Station. Working with combustion scientists,
study gas-fueled, non-premixed, laminar diffusion flames in 1D or 2D
geometries. For example, investigate the effect of an electric field
on chemiluminescent emission and flame stability. Develop and
evaluate hardware and operational concepts through ground-based
experiments in normal gravity and microgravity (via drop testing).
Test the function and reliability of instruments and other hardware
elements such as the burners and igniter. |
|
GRC4-21-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
FIRE PREVENTION IN
MICROGRAVITY: A spacecraft fire is one of major safety concerns for
manned space crafts and lunar habitats. Student internship
opportunities exist in the fire prevention area where flammability
of materials is tested in normal gravity and in microgravity using
the NASA Glenn Zero Gravity Facility. The normal gravity tests are
geared toward either understanding the relevance of NASA?s current
material flammability screening test methods or simulating the
reduced gravity environment through scaling laws. |
|
Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) |
|
GSFC1-03-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Mathematics,
Applied Mathematics |
LUNAR TERRAIN
CATEGORIZATION: Surface mission operational planning has been
identified as one area of special interest within the Scientific
Context of the Moon Exploration. Specifically, technologies that
will enable scientists to perform terrain categorization, and in
particular to detect, identify and characterize rocks, will be
studied. Once lunar data is geo-registered & mosaiced to a common
Lunar Geodetic Grid, these tools will assist scientists in
determining general regions of interest, in performing precise
targeting of specific types of samples, & in avoiding hazardous
landing sites. Regions of interest will mainly be determined by
understanding and characterizing potential lunar resources
(minerals, ice, etc.) and their spatial distribution, their
abundance, density, and distribution, relative to future missions
and in-situ instruments that will be needed to perform additional
detailed analyses. Rock identification will play an essential role
in targeting specific samples, and rock location and distribution
will be essential for selecting landing sites while avoiding
hazards. Another importance tool in selecting landing sites will be
accurately compute slopes and surface roughness parameters, from
laser altimeter or stereo data, taking into account appropriate
solar illumination models. Specifically, the work will focus on
terrain classification and SAR data hazard analysis. Classification
with methods such as shape analysis, textural analysis, mathematical
morphology, & shading analysis, as well as both unsupervised
clustering & supervised classification will be investigated and
evaluated, and SAR Data Hazard Analysis will be used to generate
hazard maps using methods such as texture and mathematical
morphology. |
|
GSFC1-05-08-SU |
Summer |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Optics, Physics, Other |
OPTICAL PARAMETRIC
OSCILLATOR (OPO): Development of an Ytterbium (Yb)-fiber laser
pumped Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO) for an atmospheric
methane measurement instrument. |
|
GSFC1-33-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Atmospheric Sciences, Geosciences,
Natural Resource Management |
INVERSE SYNTHETIC APERTURE
RADER (ISAR) FOR INTERIOR MAPPING OF ASTROID: This project has a
goal to develop hardware and software for low frequency wideband
step frequency ISAR radar. Low frequency ISAR are used to image
interior structure of an unknown target such as asteroid/comet and
other planetary bodies. ISAR consists of three basic subsystems: (1)
Base band signal generation and based ban I & Q data processing, (2)
Analog RF front end, and (3) Antenna. Using either Xilnix/Altera
FPGA board and Analog Devices' DDS chips entire base band operation
will be programmed and implemented. The analog RF front end will be
assembled from commercially available RF components. The data
acquisition and processing will be implemented through FPGA.
Development of data processing algorithm to form a 2-D image of
interior portion of a target will also be part of this project. |
|
GSFC1-34-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemistry,
Geosciences, Astrobiology |
ORGANIC COMPOUND ANALYSIS
OF MARS ANALOGUES: Gas chromatograph mass spectrometer analysis of
Mars analogues. |
|
GSFC1-35-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, Geography, Geosciences,
Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science |
LUNAR TRANSVERS MAP
CONTEST: Next year more than 3 billion dollars of new lunar data
will start to flow in a torrent. We are designing an educational
outreach effort setting up a competitive mission design by students
for the most basic types of lunar robots. |
|
GSFC1-36-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering
Other: Computer Software Engineering |
COMMUNICATIONS, STANDARDS &
TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY: The student intern will participate in the
development & integration of technologies and systems into the GSFC
Communications, Standards, & Technology Laboratory (CSTL). The CSTL
is a facility capable of testing and demonstrating complete
end-to-end mission communications scenarios from on board spacecraft
computer systems through spacecraft busses and RF communications
systems, ground station RF systems, terrestrial networking systems,
to the mission control center. The work available ranges from
software development to digital and RF hardware design. Current
activities include demonstrations and development of Lunar Surface
communications scenarios. |
|
GSFC1-39-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Engineering Physics, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Chemistry, Physics |
DUST ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
PARTICULATE (DEEP) CHAMBER: The student intern will provide support
in assembly and chamber operation for testing mechanisms and other
spacecraft components in a lunar dust environment. Chamber internal
designs will need to be accomplished for proper testing as well as
complying with safety requirements. |
|
GSFC2-02-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Other
Other: Hardware & Software |
EMBEDDED SCIENCE DATA
PROCESSING APPLICATIONS USING HIGH PERFORMANCE HYBRID PLATFORMS:
Work on a robotic path planning demonstration; R&D involving SAR and
Hyper-spectral data processing; and robust software architecture
that will help fly commercial processors reliably in a
space-radiation environment. Students need to have C and/or VHDL
experience, and combined hardware/software experience. |
|
GSFC2-06-08-SU |
Summer |
Optics,
Physics, Other
Other: Physics & Engineering |
DESIGN AND TESTING OF A
HOLOGRAPHIC FILTER: Such narrow band optical filters are important
in wavelength division multiplexed systems and very useful in
optical communication systems. |
|
GSFC4-14-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Other
Other: Computer Software Engineering |
COMMUNICATIONS, STANDARDS &
TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY: The
student intern will participate in the development & integration of
technologies and systems into the GSFC Communications, Standards, &
Technology Laboratory (CSTL). The CSTL is a facility capable of
testing and demonstrating complete end-to-end mission communications
scenarios from onboard spacecraft computer systems through
spacecraft busses and RF communications systems, ground station RF
systems, terrestrial networking systems, to the mission control
center. The work available ranges from software development to
digital and RF hardware design. |
|
GSFC4-15-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
STRUCTURAL VERIFICATION OF
THE LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE ORBITER (LRO):
The student intern will assist in the structural testing of
the LRO spacecraft. These tests may include both vibration and
acoustic tests. Pretest analysis will be performed and correlated to
the test results. |
|
GSFC4-16-08-SU |
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
DEVELOPMENT OF A
MOTOR/ACTUATOR CONTROLLER CORE FOR FLIGHT INSTRUMENT & SPACECRAFT
MECHANISMS: Development of electronic circuits that will drive and
control a precision mechanism actuator. Work will include
fabrication of an electronic circuit and testing with a space flight
actuator engineering unit to demonstrate all requirements can be
achieved. |
|
GSFC4-37-09-FA |
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
FPGA IMPLEMENTATION OF A
MOTOR/ACTUATOR CONTROLLER CORE: New flight instrument and spacecraft
mechanism control electronics increase the challenges for higher
performance and safety parameters as well as low development cost. A
promising technology that can help achieve this is
"System-On-a-Chip", or SOC, where many functions are integrated onto
a single integrated circuit. By using a single device instead of
many, printed circuit board size can be dramatically reduced, which
translates into size and mass savings. Typically, a SOC is developed
by coding and stimulating each of the functions in a hardware
description language (HDL). Integrating those functions into a
system, stimulating and synthesizing the integrated system for
implementation on a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The
ability to use these coded functions as "intellectual property
cores" (IP cores) in multiple applications can significantly reduce
development cost. However, one major obstacle to using SOC
technology for many instruments is the lack of IP cores to perform
motor and actuator control. This effort proposes to develop a
motor/actuator control core (MACC) that will allow a complete
instrument data system to be implemented on a single FPGA. This will
allow the advantages of SOC architectures to be fully leveraged
across a wide variety of upcoming instruments. |
|
GSFC4-38-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Engineering Physics,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
COMPOSITE MATERIAL LAB:
Hands on Internship - Multiple Programs: Multiple Composite
Structure Programs. |
|
Jet Propulsion lab (JPL) |
|
JPL1-01-08-SU |
Summer |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
Planetary exploration
requires greater awareness of the environment around so robotic
platforms and habitats can function effectively. In this context,
360 degree vision greatly improves situational awareness. The
internship will engage students in developing image processing
software and the integration with hardware. |
|
JPL1-03-09-SU |
Summer |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
Self-reconfigurable
architectures for reusable Space systems |
|
Johnson Space Center
(JSC) |
|
JSC1-01-08-6M |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemical
Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering,
Chemistry, Other
Other: Chem E, Chemistry/Electrochemistry, EE |
BATTERY MODULES WITH
POLYMER LITHIUM-ION CELLS: student researcher is required to assist
in the design and development of battery modules A student
researcher is required to assist in the design and development of
battery modules with polymer lithium-ion cells. The battery modules
will be tested in ambient as well as vacuum environments for
performance as well as safety. Lunar and planetary surface systems
will require that they be exposed to extreme temperatures and
testing will be performed at worst case hot and cold temperatures.
Perform survey on polymer lithium-ion cells used in commercial,
military and space applications. Study polymer cell electrode design
configurations from different manufacturers. Survey of successful
long-term operation and perform analysis that may relate cell design
to long life. |
|
JSC1-08-08-4M |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Biochemistry,
Biophysics, Microbiology, Bacteriology, Other
Other: environmental microbiology, biogeochemistry, air
revitalization, and electron microscopy |
CYANOBACTERIA BIOREACTOR: A
new project has been started in In-situ Resource Utilization for the
moon. This project consists of a bioreactor that uses cyanobacteria
to attack and corrode lunar soil in order to extract useful products
(oxygen, iron, silicon) for use on the moon. It will use a unique
bioreactor design in which fiber optics light pipes provide light
energy to the cyanobacteria. The resulting biomass is recycled after
removal of the desired resources. This project requires knowledge of
general and molecular microbiology, general and analytical
chemistry, basic biotechnology and engineering. Student needs
experience with a Scanning Electron Microscope, and has a knowledge
of interactions between bacteria and minerals. |
|
JSC1-18-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Chemistry
Other: Undergrad or Graduate level |
IN-SITU RESOURCE
UTILIZATION: Student Intern will participate in the design of
in-situ resource utilization oxygen production pilot plants. These
plants will produce pure oxygen from lunar regolith (soil) to enable
a sustainable lunar outpost. |
|
JSC1-21-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE
FUEL CELLS: Fuel cells are likely to be key to lunar lander and
lunar outpost operations. Key to developing lightweight and reliable
fuel cell plants is the ability to manage reactants and water with
no active pumps or other components. An intern would examine the
technologies needed for passive reactant control, passive cooling,
and water removal by wicking. Prototyping of one or many of these
technologies is desirable. |
|
JSC1-22-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Computer Science |
ACTIVE RESPONSE GRAVITY
OFFLOAD SYSTEM (ARGOS): ARGOS will use electro-mechanical devices
and sensors to compensate for the difference between earth and lunar
gravity, while keeping the actuation point above the center of
gravity during translations. Of interest to NASA is a control
algorithm that will command the motors in response to the
astronaut?s movements with negligible lag time. |
|
JSC1-23-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
ITU STANDARD G.729
(CS-ACELP and G.722.2 (AMR-WB) SPEECH COMPRESSION CODECS ON FPGA
TARGET: These codecs are typically implemented on Digital Signal
Processors (DSP). Constellation wants to implement the codecs on an
FPGA so that redundant data-bus audio packet management, speech
signal extraction and compression can happen on a single chip,
minimizing mass, power and size requirements. |
|
JSC4-09-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Biomedical
Engineering, Biology, Other
Other: Grads/undergrads biology, physiology, biomedical engineering,
human factors, kinesiology |
ASTRONAUT PHYSIOLOGICAL
CHANGES: Astronauts experience alterations in multiple physiological
systems following their return to Earth due to adaptive responses
that occur during exposure to the microgravity conditions of space
flight. These changes may lead to disruption in the ability to
ambulate and perform functional tasks during the initial
reintroduction to a gravitational environment following a prolonged
transit. These disturbances may cause decrement in performance of
operational tasks immediately following landing on a planetary
surface. Therefore, the goals of this interdisciplinary project are
to: 1) Develop a set of functional tests for pre and postflight
testing of astronauts; 2) determine the effects of short and
long-duration space flight on functional performance and 3) map the
relationship between changes in functional performance and the
physiological alterations that occur as a result of exposure to
space flight. |
|
JSC4-12-08-SU |
Summer, Fall |
Engineering
Physics, Physics |
MATERIAL SCIENCE OF MANNED
SPACECRAFT RADIATION SHIELDING: This internship will involve
examining crew dose, materials dose, and avionics single event
effects (SEE) environments and how it is affected by manned
spacecraft radiation shielding. The intern will use the FLUKA
(http://www.fluka.org/ ) ionizing radiation transport code to
explore the effectiveness of various materials and materials
combinations in attenuation of galactic cosmic ray and solar cosmic
ray dose to the interior of relatively massive (compared to robotic
vehicles) manned spacecraft. The objective here is to compare
different materials in simple geometries so that materials effects
on secondary particle production and stopping power can be
determined and visualized directly with no complications from
specific spacecraft configuration effects. Validation of the FLUKA
tool against available space flight data and ground based
accelerator data is an essential part of the project. |
|
JSC4-13-08-SU |
Summer, Fall |
Engineering
Physics, Physics |
GEOMAGENTIC STORMS,
TRAVELING IONOSPHERIC DISTURBANCES (TIDs), AND SOLAR CYCLE EFFECTS
ON NEUTRAL ATMOSPHERE: The objective of this internship is to
evaluate existing (albeit cutting edge) tools used to predict the
scale of the ISS attitude control or satellite drag anomalies
expected as a result of geomagnetic storm events or as the upper
atmosphere become immediately denser during geomagnetic storms and
gradually denser as we approach the upcoming solar maximum, the
magnitude and character of which is proving more difficult to
predict than was the case for the last several solar maxima. |
|
JSC4-14-08-SU |
Summer, Fall |
Engineering
Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION
AS NANO/MICRO SATELLITE BASE: This effort is an evolution of the
sounding rocket base (Wallops, White Sands, Poker Flats etc.) idea
as suggested by the free launch services provided for micro
satellite and nano satellites by ESA on the Arianne launcher and
used extensively by Surrey Satellite customers. Specifically, the
intern will need to provide a report with the following information:
a) Feasibility - assessment of earth-to-orbit transportation
opportunities to ISS in the post Shuttle era. b) Concept -
multi-satellite carrier to attach to ISS externally and provide
controlled mechanical deployment/launch over some range of vectors
compatible with ISS safety (collision avoidance). c) Launch
opportunities for satellite carrier assembly - Progress, Soyuz,
ESA/ATV, JAXA/HTV, Commercial Carriers (COTS Program), Orion. d)
Matching the concept to the agency road maps and science
objectives/needs of, for example, the National Science Foundation,
NASA Science Mission Directorate, and the National Oceanics and
Atmospherics Administration. |
|
Kennedy Space Center
(KSC) |
|
KSC1-05-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Physics |
EROSION
OF LUNAR/MARTIAN SOIL BENEATH ROCEKT EXHAUST PLUME: Perform
experiments to improve our understanding of the physics of the
erosion of lunar/martian soil beneath a rocket exhaust plume, the
processes of cratering and scour-hole formation in the soil, the
aerodynamic forces upon the blowing particulates and larger ejecta,
their trajectories, and the damage they may cause upon impact with
spaceflight hardware. |
|
KSC1-06-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
SIMULATE THE BLOWING OF
SOIL AND/OR CRATERING BENEATH LANDERS: Developing techniques to
numerically simulate the blowing of soil and/or cratering beneath
the engines of lunar and martian landers, validating the simulations
by comparison with the Apollo landing videos, Surveyor III damage,
Mars imagery, and terrestrial experiment data, and using the
simulations in trade studies to determine how to develop landing
zones that will control the blast effects and protect both the
landing vehicle and the lunar/martian outpost |
|
KSC1-07-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Other
Other: Robotics, Mining Engineering |
DEVELOPING SURFACE SUPPORT
EQUIPMENT: Interns will be involved in developing surface support
equipment required to deploy and operate a Lunar Outpost. Examples
include spacecraft servicing on the Lunar Surface, emplacement of
Outpost assets & cargo and production & distribution of surface
consumables such as Liquid Oxygen |
|
KSC1-08-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Other
Other: Robotics, Mining Engineering |
IN-SITU UTILIZATION (ISRU)
TECHNOLOGIES: Regolith Excavation is required for Oxygen Production
and Lunar Outpost Construction. Technologies and mechatronic systems
will be developed to syupport ISRU methods and goals. |
|
KSC1-09-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Biology,
Microbiology, Bacteriology, Other
Other: Biological/Agricultural Engineering, Molecular/Microbiology |
EXPLORATION LIFE SUPPORT
PROJECT OF ESMD: Water Recovery Systems (WRS) Element by
characterization of the microbial communities in water processed and
stored for CEV; Waste Management Systems (WMS) Element by
characterization of the microbial communities in solid waste solid
waste compacting, storage and safing development for CEV; Habitation
Element by developing efficient, high quality lighting systems for
CEV, LSAM, and surface systems, including the use of LED and direct
solar light capture systems with acceptable spectrum for human
vision; Air Revtalization Element (ARS) by testing (COTS) polymer
adsorbents for filtering trace contaminants found in cabin air; and
developing a hypobaric test capability for assessing environmental
and chemical sensors / detectors for CEV and Lunar landing
applications. |
|
KSC2-01-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Other
Other: Simulation/Digital Media |
DATA PRESENTATION &
VISUALIZATION: Advancing technologies that support Data Presentation
& Visualization which is part of ESMD; KSC Lead Center for this
initiative |
|
KSC2-02-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Other
Other: Simulation |
SIMULATION INTEGRATION:
Improved discrete event simulation integration |
|
KSC2-03-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer
Engineering, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechanics, Computer Science, Other
Other: Simulation, Human Factors, Anthropology, Phsychology, Graphic
Arts |
SIMULATION TOOLS: Evaluate
and improve the usability and human factors of simulation tools |
|
KSC2-04-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Other
Other: Simulation/Education |
ESMD DISTRIBUTED OBSERVER
NETORK (DON): Innovative uses of ESMD's Distributed Observer Network
for education & other NASA purposes (KSC POC to interface w/Snr Pjt
Team) |
|
KSC2-17-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial, Manufacturing
Engineering, Computer Science |
SIMULATION TOOLS:
Development of a simulation tool to assist planning, scheduling and
integrating the KSC ground processing tasks involved in preparing
the ISS Orbital Replacement Units and payloads that will be launched
on Visiting Vehicles. These vehicles include Japan's HTV, to be
launched from Tanegashima, Japan; ESA's ATV to be launched from
Kourou, French Guiana; CEV/Orion to be launched from KSC; and
commercial vehicles to be launched from a TBD site. Appropriate for
-- Industral Engineering or Computer Science/Engineering.
Specialized Skills Required -- Experience with simulation tools
beneficial but not required. |
|
KSC2-18-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
LIFE CYCLE COSTS FOR
AUTOMATING SPACECRAFT PROCESSING FUNCTIONS: For this project, a
model/tool to be used in forecasting lifecycle costs for different
systems/operations will be developed. This may include cost/benefit
analysis for automating certain spacecraft processing functions such
as fueling and pressurization, versus performing these functions
manually. Appropriate for ? any engineering discipline. Specialized
Skills Required ? Industrial Engineering field of specialization
helpful but not required |
|
KSC2-19-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering |
ELECTRONIC WORK CONTROL AND
WORK AUTHORIZATION APPLICABILITY AT KSC: This project will involve a
survey of KSC operations and an assessment of the applicability of
electronic work control (Work Authorization Documents) systems in
use in the aerospace industry and especially at KSC for a
recommendation of a system or type of system. Appropriate for ? any
engineering discipline. Specialized Skills Required ? Industrial
Engineering field of specialization helpful but not required |
|
KSC2-20-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering |
INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION
(ISS) STRATEGIC OUTREACH TO GEN Y: Capitalizing on the global
characteristic of the ISS, this project will develop communication
strategies and tools for disseminating information about ISS
milestones, accomplishments, and missions to the Gen Y audience in
order to help them assume their role as active participants and
stakeholders in NASA's goals. See "NASA Gen Y PowerPoint
presentation" available on various public web sites for example
reference information. Appropriate for ? any engineering discipline
Communication skills needed |
|
KSC2-21-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering |
SPACE STATION PROCESSING
FACILITY OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE COST EVALUATION: This project
will compare the Operations and Maintenance costs of the Space
Station Processing Facility (SSPF) to the O&M costs of a similar
building in industry. The intern will analyze other models of
operation and opportunities for improvement to facilitate continued
usage of the SSPF asset for Constellation. |
|
KSC2-22-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering |
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
STRATEGY EVALUATION FOR THE TRANSITION FROM ISS TO SPACECRAFT
PROCESSING: This project will involve an analysis of current
knowledge management practices within International Space Station
(ISS) flight system processing. Benchmarking and analysis of other
best practices will be conducted. Proposal of a strategy for
transitioning from current infrastructure to a recommended future
state will be developed. |
|
KSC2-23-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering |
INITIAL LOGISTICS
SUPPORTABILITY IN A LUNAR ENVIRONMENT: During this project, the
intern will determine initial composition of spares based on lunar
concept of operations, optimize packaging configuration, and
identify maintenance scenarios based on potential failure modes and
tools required. Industrial Engineering with logistics operations
knowledge preferred |
|
KSC2-25-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Engineering Physics, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, Nuclear
Engineering |
TELEMETRY SCREENING FOR
VARIOUS VEHICLES: This project will involve using the IRIS software
package utilized by the Launch Services Program to design telemetry
screens for the various vehicles and their ground systems used by
NASA when launching unmanned payloads. These telemetry screens will
provide vital measurements to systems engineers in an organized
manner for both ground testing and launch activities and may also
provide calculations and graphical representations of incoming data
measurements. The creation of these screens will require the student
to develop basic knowledge of ground testing and operation of
multiple launch vehicle systems. |
|
KSC2-26-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering |
During this project, the
intern will assist the Launch Command and Control Systems (LCS)
Hardware Group in Hardware Configuration Item (HWCI) electromagnetic
interference (EMC) testing. This effort inclues the development of
susceptibility failure criteria and related requirements for all
applicable LCS HWCI's. |
|
Langley Research Center
(LRC) |
|
LRC1-01-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer
Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Other
Other: Any major with strong programming background |
Algorithm Development for
Robotics Applications Using LABVIEW: This project involves the
development of algorithms relating to autonomous mobility and
navigation based on stereo, omni-directional, and thermal imagers.
The intern should be interested in robotic systems and well-versed
in computer programming. |
|
LRC1-03-08-SU |
Summer |
Other
Other: Communications; Media Production; Instructional Design |
Distance Learning Modules
for Tribal Schools: Participants will work with NASA Digital
Learning staff to design and test distance learning modules intended
for delivery via videoconferencing to Tribal schools. Specific
desirable skills will support digital media production, research
activities, and technical/media writing. Proficiency with
PowerPoint, Photo Shop; and/or video editing software is
recommended. Content for modules will be associated with lunar and
planetary surface systems, propulsion, and spacecraft. |
|
LRC1-04-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Civil
Environmental, Health Engineering, Electrical, Electronic, Computer
Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Physics, Computer Science, Other
Other: Any major with strong programming background |
DESIGN AND INTEGRATION OF A
ROBOTIC PLATFORM FOR SCIENCE INSTRUMENT TESTING: This project
involves the development of software to support the operation of a
robotic platform with application to the testing and deployment of
science instruments. The tasks to be implemented include: image
registration, behavioral robotic intelligence, and user interfaces
for robot guidance and supervision. Ideal candidates for
participation will be familiar with kinematics, machine pattern
recognition, computer programming, and guidance and control. |
|
LRC1-17-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Engineering
Physics, Optics, Physics, Atmospheric Sciences |
LASER REMOTE SENSING:
Development of Mid-IR Laser-Based Differential Absorption Lidar
(DIAL) for Water Vapor Detection: Student will be involved in
developing the capability (modeling and simulation) of sensing water
vapor on Mars and in other planetary atmospheres using lidars.
(There could be some test experiments provided students have
requisite training in using lasers that include laser safety
training and eye exams.) |
|
LRC1-18-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Engineering
Physics, Optics, Physics, Atmospheric Sciences |
LASER REMOTE SENSING:
Design, Modeling, and Performance Simulation of Lidar Systems for
Sensing Trace Gases: Lidars for sensing water vapor, ice, and
several atmospheric trace gases are being investigated. Student will
develop computer models for evaluating the merits of several lidar
techniques for optimum system development. (There could be some test
experiments provided students have requisite training in using
lasers that includes laser safety training and eye exams.) |
|
LRC1-19-09-SU |
Summer |
Computer
Science, Other |
DEVELOPMENT OF SPACE
EXPLORATION INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE: Development of Space Exploration
Interactive Software: The primary objective of this project is to
develop interactive online software to compare space exploration
with other exploration efforts throughout history. The
modules/options would include transportation, survival in harsh
environments, human needs, desirable locations for settlements (and
why), the importance of water in exploration, and other topics
unique to all exploration efforts. The software would provide a
repository of images of maps that NASA has developed in planning for
future missions. |
|
LRC2-10-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Other
Other: Structural Analysis |
INTEGRATED DIAGNOSTIC AND
PROGNOSTIC AEROSERVOELASTIC METHODS FOR ADAPTIVE CONTROL SYSTEM: The
purpose of this project is to develop integrated diagnostic and
prognostic aeroservoelastic methods to generate static and dynamic
load constraints due to structural damage and upset conditions for
adaptive control system. The focus will be on the following: damage
characterization and residual strength; rapid modeling and analysis
methods; dynamic impact simulation; and probabilistic methods. |
|
LRC4-06-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
ANALYSIS OF DYNAMIC
STABILITY EXPERIMENTAL DATA IN SUPPORT OF PROJECT ORION AND
PLANETARY ENTRY CAPSULES: Dynamic stability data from various
sources will be compared to better understand the strengths and
weaknesses of different test techniques and facilities. This
analysis will help identify the best facility to obtain data for
different blunt body configurations and applications. The
comparisons will also be used to quantify uncertainties on the
measured aerodynamic coefficients and the sources of error in each
facility. |
|
LRC4-08-08-SU |
Summer |
Materials,
Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Chemistry, Physics |
NANOMATERIALS
CHARACTERIZATION FOR AEROSPACE APPLICATIONS: Characterization and
imaging of carbon nanotube networks in materials using Atomic Force
Microscopy (AFM) |
|
LRC4-09-08-SU |
Summer |
Materials,
Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics,
Chemistry, Physics |
RESONANT DIFFERENCE
FREQUENCY ATOMIC FORCE ULTRASONIC MICROSCOPY (RDF-AFUM): The
RDF-AFUM technique employs an ultrasonic wave launched from the
bottom of a sample, while the cantilever of an atomic force
microscope, driven at a frequency differing from the ultrasonic
frequency by one of the contact resonance frequencies of the
cantilever, engages the to surface of the sample. The associated
signals are used to create images of nano-scale near-surface and
subsurface features. |
|
LRC4-16-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Engineering Physics,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS BRANCH:
Assessment of Uncertainty Quantification and Modern Design of
Experiments (MDOE) for Impact Dynamics Applications: This work is
important in the context of the Orion Landing System development
application and has potential for future spacecraft and lunar-lander
work. This work integrates two specialized areas - impact dynamics
and uncertainty quantification (using probabilistic analysis).
Impact dynamics is based on an understanding of the nonlinear,
transient-dynamic behavior of structures. The quantification and
propagation of a number of uncertainties will require the knowledge
of probabilistic analysis. MDOE can be used to minimize or control
some uncertainties. A graduate student would be best suited for this
work. The student's effort will be in the application of
probabilistic analysis for uncertainty quantification to an impact
dynamics problem. In order to most effectively work on the project,
the student should have knowledge in either nonlinear,
transient-dynamic structures or probabilistic analysis. In addition,
experience with finite-element modeling and signal processing would
be helpful. |
|
LRC4-20-09-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Engineering Physics,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics |
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS:
Development of an ARES I Aerodynamic Database: The ARES I database
will be derived from separate wind tunnel, CFD, and engineering code
datasets. The work involves the integration of these separate items
into a single database with routines being developed in MATLAB. |
|
Marshall Space Flight
Center (MSFC) |
|
MSFC1-02-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
EDUCATIONAL TEST BED FOR
SURFACE MOBILITY STUDIES: The objective of this project is to
develop and implement a testbed that may be used at a college or
university for further research and technology development in
surface mobility systems. During the summer the students will
utilize commercial off-the shelf components e.g., radio controlled
cars, computer to RC interface boxes, X-box controllers, PC
computers and network cameras to develop a demonstration of
automated way-point navigation. The network camera will be
positioned over the area traversed by the RC car and image
processing algorithms will be developed to determine the car's
position and orientation that will be used in the closed loop
control system. This position data will be used in place of GPS data
and will allow the development of a small scale surface mobility
simulator than can be implemented indoors. This system may be
replicated back at the grantee's home institution and provide a
low-cost test bed for further development in surface mobility
related areas." |
|
MSFC1-03-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
RADIATION EFFECTS ON
ELECTRONIS MODELING: Develop advanced models of the natural
radiation environment to diagnose and predict the effects of Single
Event Effects (SEEs) on modern electronic architectures. |
|
MSFC1-04-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Computer Science |
RECONFIGURABLE COMPUTERS:
Provide reconfigurable computing capability, resulting in reduction
of flight spares and risk reduction for limited circuit lifetimes. |
|
MSFC1-05-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
TESTING AND DEVELOPING
MATERIALS FOR SPACE EXPLORATION: Impact testing using a variety of
projectiles simulating micrometeoroids, orbital and launch debris,
and weather encounters (rain/hail) for testing and developing
materials to ensure safer space exploration |
|
MSFC1-09-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
LAB SUPPORT:
Microwave/Millimeter Wave Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Lab
support |
|
MSFC1-10-08-AY |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics,
Computer Science |
UNIVERSAL MODULAR COMPUTING
RESOURCES: Development of technology and demonstrations in advanced
RC applications to universal modular computing resources for future
Space Flight infrastructure. Work currently underway combines
various schemes of software and hardware interaction to demonstrate
physical and functional RC concepts. The ultimate product is a
flight-qualified universal computing resource for use throughout
future vehicle and surface systems. |
|
MSFC1-11-08-SU |
Summer |
Physics |
PREDICTING SPACE RADIATION
EXPOSURE: With longer duration and distance space flights becoming
necessary, the ability to predict and simulate space radiation
exposure due to galactic cosmic rays (GCR) is crucial. These
predictions are commonly used in space weather simulations as well
as in radiation exposure and protection studies for microelectronics
and astronauts. This study focuses on four of the most widely used
GCR models where they will be benchmarked and validated against a
database consisting of both light and heavy-ion GCR data. This work
will provide a foundation for updating the Cosmic Ray Effects on
MicroElectronics (CREME) 1996 model, an effort that is currently
underway by the Cosmic Ray group at MSFC. |
|
MSFC1-15-08-SU |
Summer |
Astronomy,
Astrophysics, Physics |
SPACE RADIATION: Modeling
the space radiation environment |
|
MSFC1-17-08-SU |
Summer |
Chemical
Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry,
Physics, Geosciences, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics
Other: Mining Eng, Extractive Metallurgy, Geo Eng |
REGOLITH SIMULANT
DEVELOPMENT: MSFC is developing a method to create lunar regolith
simulants that will match the properties of the lunar surface. This
process involves understanding the lunar components and how to
quantify and reproduce them, and how they mix together on the Moon.
Knowledge of mining, milling, mineralogy, geology, image analysis,
statistics, physics, engineering, chemistry and many other skills
all have significant roles in the overall project. Areas of activity
are constantly evolving as progress is made by the dynamic team
reaching across the United States and internationally |
|
MSFC1-19-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering, Physics |
FISSION SURFACE POWER
COMPONENT TESTING AND DEVELOPMENT: Involves analysis, design and
testing of technologies for possible use in a fission reactor to
power a lunar base. Involves thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid
flow, mechanical design, and hands-on laboratory operations. Current
technologies include liquid metal pumps, flowmeters and heat
exchangers, thermal fuel rod simulators, liquid metal corrosion and
natural convection flow. |
|
MSFC1-20-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering, Physics |
RADIOISOTOPE POWER
SIMULATOR DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING: Involves analysis design and
testing of thermal simulators of the General Purpose Heat Source
module, a Plutonium radioisotope source used in NASA mission.
Involves heat transfer, mechanical design and hands-on laboratory
operations. |
|
MSFC1-36-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering, Physics |
FISSION SURFACE POWER:
Fission systems could potentially provide abundant power anywhere on
the surface of the moon or Mars. The intern would perform
experimental work related to the design and development of fission
surface power (FSP) systems for potential use on the moon or Mars.
Work at MSFC is focused on testing related to the reactor and
shield. Work could include completing experiments related to pump
performance, heat exchanger performance, shield performance,
integrated system performance, thermal simulator development, or
other topics. Work may also be done in collaboration with other NASA
centers (e.g. GRC). |
|
MSFC1-46-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Chemical
Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechanics, Chemistry, Physics, Geosciences, Other |
IN-SITU FABRICATION &
REPAIR/IN-SITU RESOURCE UTILIZATION/DUST MANAGEMENT PROJECT: Student
would assist NASA project team in developing and advancing
technologies required for returning to the Moon, establishing a
lunar outpost and eventually exploring Mars and beyond. Multiple
research and technology areas are under investigation which could
enable self-sufficiency on the Moon by learning to utilize in situ
lunar resources. Technologies the team is maturing include methods
for extracting oxygen and metals from the lunar regolith,
rapid-prototyping/fabrication, non-destructive evaluation (NDE), and
repair. In addition, opportunities exist for student participation
in developing and characterizing lunar simulants, including dust
simulants, which closely replicate the lunar regolith. |
|
MSFC3-14-08-SU |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
OFF-DESIGN ANALYSIS OF
LIQUID ROCKET ENGINES: To further develop P-STAR, the first order
modeling tool, by providing the capability to perform off-design
analysis of liquid rocket engines, while improving performance,
weight and cost predictions |
|
MSFC3-34-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
DESIGNING/MODELING/TESTING
PLASMA DEVICES: Designing/modeling/testing various plasma devices,
like space thrusters and pulsed plasma micrometeorite guns. Tasks
include design/fabrication/use of plasma experiments and
diagnostics, circuit design and analysis, data analysis, performance
modeling. |
|
MSFC3-35-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
Designing and testing
various flow components for use in a simulated nuclear reactor with
application towards lunar and deep space power production. Specific
work in design/build/test of liquid metal pumps and flow sensors
that are compatible with the NaK (sodium-potassium eutectic) heat
transfer fluid. |
|
MSFC3-38-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Industrial, Manufacturing
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
TURBOMACHINERY:
Manufacturing methods/alternatives to produce small impellers (~2
Kpsi). Improving surface finish for rapid prototype manufacturing,
particularly for small parts |
|
MSFC3-39-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Industrial, Manufacturing
Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechanics |
PROPULSION SYSTEMS: The
work consists of development, design, and testing of valves, valve
actuators, lines (tubing assemblies), ducts (piping and
flex-joints), and fluid systems, for liquid propellant rocket
engines and vehicle main propulsion systems. Some fundamental tasks
performed in the design and development process include conceptual
design, fluid flow analysis, fluid mechanics, stress analysis,
material selection, manufacturing technique selection, computer
aided design (CAD) modeling, engineering drawing (drafting)
preparation, test plan development, test procedure development, and
testing. The intern will work with a mentor or senior engineer on a
component design, development, and/or test task relating to the Ares
Vehicle Program. |
|
MSFC3-42-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
PROGRAMMING A DIGITAL
SIGNAL PROCESSOR: Development of general purpose electric solenoid
valve controller with advanced diagnostic capabilities. Involves
programming a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with C++ language to
create an "intelligent" controller which electrically senses the
state of closure of the valve using a reference resonator loop and a
real-time FFT algorithm. Also involves some simulation with "SPICE"
circuit emulation software. |
|
MSFC4-01-08-SU |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Electrical, Electronic,
Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Computer
Science |
ROBOTIC TESTING: Support
the development and testing of robotic test platforms that are being
modified. |
|
MSFC4-08-08-SU |
Summer |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
FLIGHT HARDWARE FABRICATION
& TESTING: The intern will study and understand project
requirements, develop concepts, do detailed design using 3D CAD
modeling, use analysis tools to optimize components, do drawings to
document the design, produce rapid prototypes of parts, and support
flight hardware fabrication and testing. |
|
MSFC4-18-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering,
Chemical Engineering, Civil Environmental, Health Engineering,
Electrical, Electronic, Computer Engineering, Industrial,
Manufacturing Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Nuclear Engineering, Other |
LAUNCH VEHICLE LIFE CYCLE:
Build a process which integrates both quantitative and qualitative
safety, reliability and quality engineering in the life cycle of a
launch vehicle (Ares I) |
|
MSFC4-41-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Materials, Metallurgical
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics |
TESTING AND DEVELOPMENT OF
MICROMETEORITE GUN: Involves high voltage pulsed power, plasma,
hypervelocity measurements, high speed imaging and diagnostics
development for a facility for the study of micrometeorite impact.
Specific areas of interest include the hypervelocity impact of small
particles (10-150 um) with multi-layer cryogenic insulation samples
at velocities of 20 km/sec. Diagnostics are needed for accurate size
and speed measurements of these small hypervelocity particles. |
|
MSFC4-47-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Other
Other: Applied Physics |
DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION
OF STRUCTORAL/THERMAL ANALTYSIS AND DESIGN SOFTWARE TOOLS:
Applications to spaceflight hardware and conceptual systems.
Includes further development of NASA X-TOOLSS (eXploration Toolset
for Optimization Of Launch and Space Systems) software. Also applies
to: Lunar and Planetary Surface Systems |
|
MSFC4-48-08-AN |
Spring, Summer,
Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics,
Other
Other: Applied Physics |
THERMAL AND STRUCTURAL
ANALYSIS: Opportunities include heat transfer, stress, fracture,
fatigue, structural dynamics/loads, and vibroacoustics. Applications
to spaceflight hardware and future lunar surface systems. Also
applies to: Lunar and Planetary Surface Systems |
|
Stennis Space Center
(SSC) |
|
SSC3-03-09-AN |
Summer |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
RFID INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION
DATA DEVICE: Design an RFID device to be placed on instrumentation
and a read/write device so that a QA technician can easily check to
see what the re-calibration date is, can set the new date and can
interface this data with a computer system automatically. |
|
SSC3-04-09-AN |
Spring, Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering |
STRAIN GAGE BONDING
INTEGRITY MEASUREMENT DEVICE: Design an intelligent Integrated
System Health Management (ISHM) detector for strain gages which will
use capacitive coupling techniques and computer intelligence to
determine whether the gage is still properly bonded to the subject
material. It is difficult to determine whether an anomaly is caused
by an actual adverse event or simply by the strain gage losing
integrity. This must be done in real time. |
|
SSC3-05-09-AN |
Spring, Fall |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
CHARACTERIZATION OF STRAIN
LEVELS IN U-SHAPED CONVOLUTES ON CRYOGENIC EXPANSION JOINTS:
Collecting and analyzing strain readings from U-shaped convolutes
for clarifying instrumentation techniques in support of rocket
propulsion testing. The strain characterization will also be
compared to an ANSYS finite element model to further substantiate
the results. |
|
SSC3-06-09-AN |
Spring |
Electrical,
Electronic, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics |
HARDWRE-IN-THE-LOOP
PROPULSION TEST SYSTEMS ANALYTIC MODELING: The goal of this project
is to develop and validate the technology and processes for pre-test
validation of facility readiness relative to hardware response,
planned test sequence execution and system detection and response to
off-nominal performance situations. SSC analytic models of test
facility propellant systems will be integrated with test facility
hardware control systems and hardware to provide test like
environments that enable test facility operational checkout and
readiness verification. This project requires a combination of ME
and EE disciplines and includes both systems development with regard
to system architecture development and integration as well as
thermo/fluid systems modeling and analysis, focusing on faster than
real-time execution that enables real time assessment of test
operations. |
|
SSC3-07-09-AN |
Spring, Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
ENGINE TEST ALTITUDE
SIMULATION TEST STAND DEVELOPMENT: SSC has initiated construction of
an engine test altitude test stand to support NASA's Ares 1 and Ares
V upperstage, J-2X engine development. A sundry of unique technology
and engineering design and analysis investigations/trades are
needed. 1) Design investigations of pressure-fed chemical steam
generator system (4800 lb/sec,500 psi steam ejector system),
including structural loads analysis, temporal transient performance
investigations, system robustness/margin requirement definition &
assessment, propellant supply sizing validation, etc.. |
|
SSC3-08-09-AN |
Spring, Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
ENGINE TEST ALTITUDE
SIMULATION TEST STAND DEVELOPMENT: SSC has initiated construction of
an engine test altitude test stand to support NASA's Ares 1 and Ares
V upperstage, J-2X engine development. A sundry of unique technology
and engineering design and analysis investigations/trades are
needed. 2) Analytic model development and related investigations of
altitude simulation diffuser performance |
|
SSC3-09-09-AN |
Spring, Fall |
Aerospace,
Aeronautical, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,
Mechanics |
ENGINE TEST ALTITUDE
SIMULATION TEST STAND DEVELOPMENT: SSC has initiated construction of
an engine test altitude test stand to support NASA's Ares 1 and Ares
V upperstage, J-2X engine development. A sundry of unique technology
and engineering design and analysis investigations/trades are
needed. 3) A sundry of fluid flow and heat transfer technical issues |
|
|
