Internship | PARSAX Radar for Space Monitoring

PARSAX is a modern and highly reconfigurable radar created by TU Delft. PARSAX has already been evaluated for radar applications such as atmospheric studies, and ground and sea-based targets detection. We are now aiming at testing PARSAX capabilities for space monitoring applications.

In the past years, the number of satellites that are yearly launched is growing exponentially. The space domain is becoming more crowded by the day and needs to be efficiently monitored. Radar systems are commonly used for space monitoring. Furthermore, when applied with optimal techniques, radar can also provide a wealth of information about the observed object. In this internship you will assess the PARSAX performance for satellite detection and tracking. You will investigate, for example, ideal waveforms (e.g., bandwidth and pulse repetition frequency) that can be applied to PARSAX for satellite detection. Since the current maximum instrumented range is few hundred of km, the signal-to-noise ratio of second time around pulses needs to be assessed too, because expected ranges to satellites are at least 400 km.
You will perform this assignment in the Department of Radar Technology. We are a passionate and creative group of professionals (60 people) dedicated to the specification, development and evaluation of innovative, high-performance MMICs, miniaturized and integrated RF subsystems, antennas and front-ends and signal processing algorithms. The department is at the heart of novel, game-changing radar system and signal processing concepts for the military, space and civil domains.

You are in the final stages of your bachelor’s or master’s degree in physics, electrical engineering or a similar degree and you have a track record in the field of radar technology. Furthermore, you are also familiar with basic radar theory such as the radar equation and system noise sources. Next to technical expertise we value communication skills and a results-driven attitude.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Please visit for more information the AIVD website.