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Astrophysicist Engineer
Applies advanced computational physics and AI-enhanced modeling to solve complex orbital mechanics, space domain awareness, and next-generation propulsion challenges for defense and exploration missions
Key Responsibilities:
- Create next-generation orbital mechanics models integrating multi-body perturbation effects, non-Keplerian trajectories, and relativistic corrections
- Utilize high-performance computing and AI-driven orbital propagators for space object tracking, debris collision avoidance, and autonomous navigation
- Conduct computational fluid dynamics simulations for plasma propulsion systems, electromagnetic sails, and ion thruster optimization
- Lead space domain awareness initiatives integrating multi-sensor fusion with AI-driven pattern recognition for real-time anomaly detection
- Build machine learning models for spacecraft maneuver detection, space weather forecasting, and ionospheric impact mitigation
- Perform hypersonic reentry trajectory modeling with high-altitude aerothermodynamics and thermal protection simulations
- Design autonomous guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for unmanned spacecraft and satellite swarm coordination
Skills & Tools:
- Advanced orbital propagation techniques (SDP4, SGP8, Gauss-Legendre integrators, Runge-Kutta methods)
- High-performance computing platforms (CUDA, OpenMP, FPGA acceleration)
- Programming languages (Python, C++, Rust, Assembly)
- AI/ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, JuliaFlux) for space applications
- Electromagnetic and plasma physics modeling
- Space weather and magnetosphere dynamics simulation
- Multi-satellite formation flying and distributed control systems
- Computational fluid dynamics for advanced propulsion systems
- Classified research experience in space-based ISR applications
- TS/SCI CI Poly security clearance required
Where This Role Has Appeared:
- Stealth Communications (Defense/Aerospace, Honolulu, HI, $400k + $500k signing bonus, July 2025)
Variants & Related Titles:
- Space Systems Engineer
- Computational Astrodynamics Engineer
- Space Domain Awareness Scientist
- Orbital Mechanics Research Engineer
- Space Defense Systems Engineer
Why This Role Is New:
Astrophysicist Engineer emerged in 2020-2024 as space became a contested military domain and nations developed anti-satellite capabilities requiring sophisticated space domain awareness. The role combines traditional astrophysics with AI/ML, cybersecurity, and advanced propulsion research in ways that didn't exist when space was primarily civilian, addressing the unique challenges of defending and operating in an increasingly militarized space environment.
Trend Insight:
As space becomes the ultimate high ground for national security and commercial competition intensifies for space resources, specialized roles combining cutting-edge physics, AI, and defense applications are commanding premium compensation to protect critical space-based infrastructure.
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