Master Thesis – Induced Vibration

SSC Space is a global provider of advanced space services, with expertise in areas such as satellite communications, engineering services, and rocket and balloon systems. At Esrange Space Center in northern Sweden, we launch sounding rockets that enable scientific experiments in microgravity.
Successful microgravity research requires acceleration levels inside the rocket payload to remain extremely low. However, moving components in one experiment can generate vibrations that affect other experiments onboard. This thesis aims to improve how these vibrations are measured, analyzed and predicted, helping SSC Space provide more reliable and high-quality microgravity conditions for its customers.

Responsibilities

The purpose of the thesis is to develop and validate a model that describes how vibrations propagate through a sounding rocket payload.
The work will include:

• Conducting a literature review of methods for measuring and analyzing vibrations in mechanical structures.
• Analyzing data from previous sounding rocket missions, including CAD models, mass distributions and acceleration measurements.
• Investigating how measurements from a single experiment module can be used to estimate the effect on the complete payload.
• Developing an analytical model for vibration propagation.
• Validating the model using existing vibration test equipment.
• If the schedule allows, applying the method during a future sounding rocket mission.

The thesis may explore questions such as:

• How do the orientation of the module and test equipment affect the measured acceleration levels?
• How do measurements taken at normal gravity compare with conditions in microgravity?
• How do vibrations measured on one module propagate through the complete payload?
• How can data from previous payloads be used to predict vibration behavior in new payloads?
• How does the distance from the vibration source and the damping properties of the payload structure affect the results?

Requirements

We are looking for Master’s students with a relevant academic background, for example in mechanical engineering, engineering physics, aerospace engineering or a related field.

We believe that you have:

• An interest in structural dynamics, vibrations and data analysis.
• Knowledge of analytical modelling and engineering calculations.
• The ability to work independently and approach technical problems in a structured way.
• Good written and spoken English.

Experience with CAD models, signal processing, measurement data or simulation tools is considered an advantage.

Benefits

• The opportunity to work on a real engineering challenge within the space industry.
• Access to experienced specialists, technicaldataand relevant testing equipment.
• Practical experience of how engineering, research and testing are applied in sounding rocket missions.
• Insight into both the Swedish and international space industry.
• An exciting and international workplace with an open and collaborative atmosphere.

Location
The thesis will be carried out in collaboration with the SSC Space team in Solna.

Next Step
Please submit your application, including your CV, academic transcripts and a short description of why you are interested in the thesis.
The application deadline is 2026-09-30 and the thesis is expected to begin in January 2027.
Please note that an approved pre-employment screening is required before the thesis can begin.