Master Thesis: Noise Monitoring from Rocket Engine Testing Intern

SSC Space provides advanced space services, including satellite communications, mission operations, engineering, and science and launch services. At Esrange Space Center in northern Sweden, we support scientific research and the development and testing of space technology. 

Would you like to combine hands-on measurements with environmental analysis in a rocket engine testing environment? We are looking for two master’s students to develop a practical methodology for monitoring noise from rocket engine tests at Esrange.

Responsibilities

Rocket engine testing is essential for developing and qualifying propulsion systems. Noise measurements and simulations have already been performed around the testing facilities at Esrange. The next step is to consolidate the existing data, compare it with theoretical predictions and strengthen the measurement approach, with a particular focus on far-field noise. 
The purpose of this thesis is to establish an in-house methodology for accurate, safe and repeatable noise measurements and use it to assess and validate existing models. 

Working together with our specialists, you will: 

• Review existing noise measurement data, test configurations, noise reduction measures and applicable environmental noise limits.
• Identify relevant noise parameters and develop a measurement plan covering measurement locations, equipment, calibration, sampling, uncertainty and data quality.
• Plan and, subject to test availability and operational approval, conduct measurements during multiple rocket engine tests.
• Process and analyze the results, assess measurement uncertainty and investigate how seasonal and operating conditions affect noise propagation.
• Compare measurements with existing data, simulations and theoretical predictions, and assess how the findings could support larger-scale testing.
• Recommend a practical approach for continued noise monitoring, documentation and evaluation at Esrange.

The work will combine a literature and standards review, discussions with specialists, measurement planning, fieldwork and data analysis. Depending on the agreed scope, you may also explore technical or operational measures to reduce noise. 
Your deliverables will include a documented measurement methodology, a measurement plan, a structured dataset and analysis, an assessment of limitations and uncertainty, and a final thesis report and presentation to SSC Space and your university. 

The measurement campaign depends on engine-test schedules, site access, safety approval, equipment availability and weather or operating conditions. The project plan will therefore include alternative activities using existing or simulated data where appropriate. The final scope and methodology will be agreed with SSC Space and your academic supervisor.

Requirements

We are looking for two motivated master’s students who enjoy combining practical technical work with theoretical analysis and have an interest in the environmental performance of rocket engine testing. 
Relevant study backgrounds include environmental engineering, sustainable technology or engineering, chemical engineering, energy engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, measurement technology, applied physics or a related field. 

We believe you: 

• Are enrolled in a relevant master’s program at a Swedish university or technical institute and are eligible to undertake a master’s thesis.
• Have a strong technical foundation and an interest in measurement methods, noise and environmental analysis.
• Are comfortable with experimental work, instrumentation and data analysis.
• Work methodically and can follow requirements in a safety-critical operational environment.
• Communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing. Swedish is an advantage.
• Collaborate well with a thesis partner while taking responsibility for your own tasks.

Benefits

We Offer You
We offer you the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to a real technical challenge and help shape how SSC Space monitors and evaluates noise from future rocket engine tests. You will learn from experienced specialists, gain insight into rocket engine testing and explore how different disciplines work together in a global space company.

Location 
The project will be carried out primarily at Esrange Space Center, near Kiruna, Sweden. Some preparatory analysis and report writing may be completed remotely by agreement. 

The planned project period is Q1–Q2 2027, starting at the beginning of the year. The detailed schedule will be agreed between the students, SSC Space and the university. 
Two students will work jointly on the project, supported by an industrial supervisor from SSC Space and an academic supervisor from their university. All on-site activities must comply with site access, safety, environmental and test-operation requirements. 
 
Next Steps 
Please submit a joint or individual application including: 

• Your CV, or both CVs if applying together.
• A short description of relevant coursework and technical experience.
• A brief motivation explaining your interest in rocket engine testing, noise measurements and environmental performance.

If applying individually, please indicate whether you already have a thesis partner. 
 
Application deadline: 2026-12-31 
Planned project period: Q1–Q2 2027 

For questions about the project, please contact Juan Garcia-Lisbona at [email protected]. Please note that this email address is for enquiries only. Applications must be submitted through our recruitment system and will not be accepted by email. 

The final scope will be refined together with the selected students and their academic supervisor to align with academic requirements, operational opportunities and the available measurement campaign.