The LOUPE instrument aims to measure the flux and polarization of sunlight that is reflected by the Earth. This data will serve as benchmark data for future exoplanet observations. LOUPE is designed as payload for a lunar lander and requires a compact, robust, and space-qualified hyperspectral sensor that would also allow many other applications, in e.g. Earth-observation, agriculture, and biomedical imaging. The aim of the project for which a 2-year postdoc will be hired at TU Delft is to develop a radically new approach to spectropolarimetric using micropatterning technology, i.e. to impose spectral and polarization filters on individual pixels of  an imaging detector, in close collaboration with astronomers and instrument scientists at Leiden Observatory and Cosine B.V.. Cosine will contribute a Hyperscout instrument that will be modified to fit the new spectropolarimetric sensor.

The postdoc will be tasked with:

1. Establishing an optimization algorithm for the micropatterned filter design for specific cases, including the associated compressive sensing algorithms.

2. Exploring all the polarization modulation channels (spatial, angular, spectral), and determine limitations to the polarimetric accuracy.

3. Identifying key technologies, and develop a prototype.

4. Delivering a full design for at least one satellite / lunar lander instrument concept.

Applicants are expected to have a PhD in one of the following areas: physics, astrophysics, applied mathematics, or a closely related area. A strong background in optics and numerical methods is essential. Applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English.

Dienstverband voor bepaalde tijd: 2-years.

 TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, ans a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An international Childeren's Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary an benefits are in accordance with the Collective labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 

The faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is one of the world's largest faculties devoted entirely to aerospace engineering. In the Netherlands it is the only research and education institute directly related to the aerospace engineering sector. It covers the whole spectrum of aerospace engineering subjects. In aeronautics, the faculty covers subjects ranging from aerodynamics and flight propulsion to structures and materials and from control and simulation to air transport and operations. In astronautics, topics include astrodynamics, space missions and space systems engineering. The faculty has around 2,700 BSc and MSc students, 225 PhD candidates and 27 professors supported by scientific staff.
The faculty's mission is to be the best Aerospace Engineering faculty in the world, inspiring and educating students through modern education techniques and enabling staff to perform ambitious research of the highest quality for the future of aerospace. The working atmosphere at the faculty is friendly, open-minded and dedicated.

The Astrodynamics and Space Missions (A&S) section is dedicated to the modelling and analysis of satellite orbits, planetary missions and their many (exo)planetary applications. For more information, please visit www.as.lr.tudelft.nl.   

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ae/