Define the ADCS architecture — CMG pyramid configuration, sensor suite selection, pointing modes (nadir+yaw steer, LVLH fixed, 3-axis sun tracking)

Develop GNC algorithms — attitude determination, CMG steering law (including singularity avoidance), momentum management, desaturation strategy

Own the pointing budget — pointing accuracy, stability, jitter, and smear allocation across the sensor and actuator chain

Define the simulation strategy — determine how the spacecraft design, simulation, and digital twin tool and Vast’s flight-validated 6DOF physics sim (GTsim) work together, what fidelity is needed for upfront system design vs flight readiness

Build and validate the 6DOF simulation environment

Define CMG performance requirements — momentum capacity, gimbal rate, gimbal limits, pyramid angle — feeding the electronics lead for box design

Define sensor performance requirements — star tracker, IMU, sun sensor, magnetometer, GNSS receiver accuracy and noise specs (feeding the procurement lead for vendor selection)

Support CMG Rev 1 bring-up with closed-loop testing

Define and commission the HITL (hardware-in-the-loop) lab — flight processor, spoofed I/O, real-time simulation

Magnetic field modeling for torque rod sizing

Run Monte Carlo analysis campaigns to demonstrate pointing performance and flight readiness

Assess flexible body dynamics — structural mode coupling with large solar arrays and cantilevered payloads, define appendage first-mode frequency requirements for structures

Senior GNC Engineer

Responsibilities

Qualification

Required

Preferred

Benefits

Company

Vast

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