Paid Mechanical engineering internship in an observatory in Antofagasta

Job Description

Our collaborator is the foremost intergovernmental astronomy organisation in Europe and the world's most productive ground-based astronomical observatory. They are carrying out an ambitious programme focused on the design, construction and operation of powerful ground-based observing facilities enabling astronomers to make important scientific discoveries.

For their Maintenance, Support and Engineering (MSE), they are looking for students to participate in the Winter Internship programme 2024. 

The MSE Department of the Observatory provides technical support to the four VLT 8-m telescopes, to the VLT Interferometer with its auxiliary telescopes and to all instruments available for scientific observations. The telescopes and instruments are complex systems that involve many advanced technologies and require a high level of engineering support.

Tasks

"Mirror Integration Tool Upgrade”

The Mirror Integration Tool is a machine used during the recoating process of the Primary mirror of a Very Large Telescope. It is original from the beginning and suffers from faulty behavior.

They intend to upgrade its hardware and control system. The MIT functions only as a simple manual command system for a hydraulic lifting device, with basic data visualization.

• Produce an alternative implementation and geometric processing for measuring the position of the M1 with respect to the M1 Cell and Mirror Handling Tool. The measurement must have an accuracy of 0.1mm in a range of 0-500[mm].
• Analyze and propose improvements to the hydraulic circuit of the MIT, as well as its control system that would allow for a safer and improved operation.
• Produce an alternative implementation and geometric processing for measuring the position of the M1 with respect to the M1 Cell and Mirror Handling Tool. The measurement must have an accuracy of 0.1mm in a range of 0-500[mm].

Requirements

• Mechanical Engineering with background in mechatronics or control systems.
• Six (6) months, start anytime between June and September 2024.
• Candidates from European and Chilean universities.
• Intermediate level English.
• Training agreement from your university.
• Strong core values of respect, integrity, accountability and commitment.
• Candidates who work well in a team with open communication. 

Conditions

• The MSE Department has a total workforce of 80 engineers and technicians distributed in 6 engineering groups, you will get the chance to work with experts in the field.
• This is a paid internship and a special allowance of USD 500 aprox/ month during the period you are performing your apprenticeship.
• Paid transportation arrangements (plane tickets). Also transportation to and from Santiago will be provided.
• Accommodation provided on site.

Availabilty and hours:The schedule will be  8 days on-site, 10 hours/ day followed by 6 days off-duty (8x6). 

Location: 120 km south of the city of Antofagasta, Chile.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS- May 3rd 2024.