Physicist - Rarefied Gas

About NewOrbit Space

NewOrbit is engineering the lowest-orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight.

Our engineering teams are tackling one of the toughest challenges in the field: building satellites that can breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. This isn’t for everyone, as the conditions can be hard, and we are seeking only the highest-performing engineers who excel at solving unprecedented challenges.

However, the hard work pays off. Through our satellites, humanity will benefit from improved satellite imagery, direct-to-phone internet, and a self-cleaning orbit free from space debris.

Please note that this is not a regular 9-to-5 job. You are expected to be able to work extended hours on-site.

Your Role

You’ll be playing a key role in developing NewOrbit’s air-breathing electric propulsion system by studying the behaviour of gasses and their effect in propelling our satellite forward.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on the behavior of gasses in rarefied conditions which are found in 200 km orbit, applying kinetic theory and statistical mechanics to model gas flow and interaction with satellite surfaces.
• Develop and implement advanced computational models, such as Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) methods, to simulate the dynamics of rarefied gasses interacting with satellite components. Ideally knowledge of dsmcFoam, SPARTA or other DSMC solvers.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate theoretical models and simulations, using vacuum chambers and other specialized equipment to replicate ULEO conditions.
• Investigate gas-surface interactions within our propulsion system to enhance material selection and surface design for optimal performance.
• Analyze and model the thermal effects of rarefied gas interactions within the propulsion system, ensuring effective thermal management and preventing system degradation.

Fundamental Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with a strong focus on rarefied gas dynamics, kinetic theory, or related areas.
• Proven experience in modeling and simulating rarefied gas dynamics, particularly in aerospace or related fields. Experience with space applications or satellite technology is a significant plus.
• Proficiency in numerical simulation techniques, particularly DSMC, and experience with relevant software tools and programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C++).
• Hands-on experience with experimental setups for studying rarefied gas behavior, including the use of vacuum chambers and diagnostic tools for measuring gas flow and surface interactions.
• Strong analytical abilities, with a deep understanding of gas kinetics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics as applied to rarefied gas environments.

Why NewOrbit

Pioneering Space Technology Join NewOrbit and contribute to the development and launch of groundbreaking technology that will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.

Impact and Ownership Experience a rare level of involvement in the full lifecycle of satellite technology development, with opportunities to influence mission-critical systems.

Equity and Competitive Salary NewOrbit offers competitive salaries and company ownership stakes, rewarding dedication and hard work with a tangible stake in the company’s success.

Application Process

Our interview process consists of four stages. The initial stage involves a call with Alex, followed by two interviews with our founders, Anatolii and Ruslan. If you progress successfully through these stages, you will be invited to complete a set of technical tasks, which will be reviewed and discussed during the fourth and final interview. If feasible, we would also like to invite you to our facilities in Reading as part of the final interview. Here you will get the chance to meet the rest of our team and tour our laboratories and office spaces.