XR Lab - VR Spacewalk Simulator

The European Space Agency's (ESA) Software and Artificial Intelligence Team, part of the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration, is at the forefront of innovation in space exploration. Based at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) near Cologne, Germany, the team leverages cutting-edge technologies, including AI, XR, IoT, and Quantum Computing, to enhance mission capabilities across destinations like the ISS, Lunar Gateway, and future Mars missions.

This internship is within the XR Lab, which focuses on revolutionizing space exploration through virtual and augmented reality. XR technologies are pivotal in astronaut training, mission planning, and operational tools for the ISS and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Improve and support the development of VREVA, a VR training tool for spacewalks.
• Analyze existing tools and ongoing projects in the XR Lab.
• Assist in migrating VREVA to Unreal Engine 5.x.
• Develop features such as:
  • Instructor representation.
  • Multiplayer functionality for two-person EVAs.
  • Station exterior interactivity.
  • Environmental modeling (orbital paths, sun/moon positioning).
  • Interactive EVA tools and robotic arm-based astronaut locomotion.
  • Scripting EVA procedures.
• Collaborate closely with the XR Lab team to refine and advance the project.

Requirements

• Enrolled in a Master's degree program, preferably in the final or penultimate year, with enrollment maintained throughout the internship.
• Proven experience with Unreal Engine 5 (Blueprints, Materials, UMG, and lighting techniques).
• Experience developing interactive applications in VR/game development.
• General knowledge of 3D modeling, rendering, and game development processes.
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine performance optimization.
• Knowledge of multi-user programming in Unreal Engine 5.

Bonus Points For

• Experience with 3D animations.
• Familiarity with the git/git-lfs version control system.
• Proficiency in an ESA member state language in addition to English or French.

Behavioural Competencies

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

Internship Details

• Location: Cologne, Germany.
• Duration: Six months preferred.
• Application Deadline: 30 November 2024, 23:59 CET/CEST.

Take this opportunity to contribute to advancing space exploration while gaining hands-on experience in the cutting-edge XR domain.