Masterthesis (f/m/x) - Investigating Visualization Techniques for Public Space Object Catalogs

The DLR Institute of Software Technology sees software as a catalyst for research and innovation. The institute's staff, currently numbering around 200, make a significant contribution to advancements in the fields of aviation, space, energy, transportation, and security through the development of state-of-the-art software solutions and innovative research.

Our areas of competence include reliable and safety-critical software systems, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and quantum computing, human-system interaction and visualisation, software and systems engineering as well as digital platforms and digital twins.

What to expect

In recent years, several comprehensive catalogues for relational space object data have been developed and put into public operation. These databases contain millions of entries, providing metadata such as orbital parameters, object size, and origin and many more. However, the sheer volume of data presents a significant challenge: simple 3D renderings of planned trajectories amidst a cloud of other objects do not provide an easily usable and readable overview of the setting. We want to provide improved visualizations of such data in CosmoScout VR, an open source visualization tool for data in the context of the solar system.

Your tasks

This thesis investigates how to transform raw orbital data of spacecraft and other objects into meaningful visualizations that directly inform end-users when and where trajectories may overlap. A key focus is the representation of uncertainty. The research should explore whether volume-based visualization on spatial density offers a more intuitive understanding of crowded zones compared to individual trajectory plotting. Furthermore, the study identifies the interaction patterns, such as spatio-temporal filtering and linked 2D-3D views, required for effective orbital exploration.

Your profile

• You are studying in Computer Science, Mathematics, Data Science, or similar courses.
• You own good knowledge in programming, preferably in C++.
• Furthermore, you have interest in high-quality software development.
• And you are a team player with creativity, independence and personal responsibility.

 We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 5119) please contact:

Jonathan Fritsch