Job profile 7 of 8 · Example: IWF, Graz
Instrument software: sensors from Graz fly to Jupiter
The Space Research Institute (IWF) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences builds magnetometers and on-board computers for space missions27. It is the only institute in Austria that develops and builds space-qualified instruments on a large scale28.
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01 · Research
What is researched here: a quantum sensor for the magnetic field
The IWF studies the physics of the solar system and the diversity of exoplanets. Around 100 people from 20 nations work on more than 20 missions led by ESA, NASA and the space agencies of Japan, China and South Korea28.
Together with TU Graz, the IWF developed MAGSCA, a quantum sensor. It measures the strength of the magnetic field using laser light and rubidium atoms in a glass cell, via the so-called Zeeman effect29.
02 · End product
The end product: a sensor on its way to Jupiter
JUICE launched on 14 April 2023. About 4 weeks later MAGSCA started working and sent its first measurement signal from 5 million kilometres away. The probe needs about 8 years to reach Jupiter29.
The IWF then interprets the data itself: measuring, analysing and explaining the physics are in one hand there28.
03 · Daily work
What the work looks like: 4 tasks from the lab to Jupiter
- Develop and build instruments: so that they work in space28.
- Program on-board computers: the electronics that control the instrument27.
- Commission in space: switch the instrument on after launch and check it29.
- Interpret data: analyse the measurements scientifically and explain the physics28.
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04 · Your path
Your way in: 4 steps
HTL, computer science
Hardware-related programming counts: in STS1, HTLs can build their own circuit boards modelled on the satellite's module57.
Bachelor
At TU Graz, “Information and Computer Engineering” gives direct admission to the matching master's36.
Master
Space Sciences and Earth from Space, focus on satellite systems, taught together with the IWF36.
Entry
Research with a PhD, possibly co-funded by ESA2, or as an ESA Graduate Trainee1.
05 · Who is hiring?
More employers for instruments and on-board electronics
- TU Graz: built the MAGSCA sensor with the IWF29.
- Seibersdorf Labor: tests electronics for radiation hardness and simulates space radiation28.
- Joanneum Research: applied research and technology, including for space27.