How to Be Space Systems Analyst - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 4, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increased demand for space systems analysts has been driven by the rapid growth in the space industry. With the emergence of space exploration, satellite communications, and space-based navigation, companies are investing heavily in these technologies, requiring skilled professionals to develop and maintain them. As a result, space systems analysts have become increasingly valuable, as they are able to provide technical knowledge and expertise to ensure the successful operation of these systems.

Furthermore, their work is highly in-demand due to the need for experienced professionals who are able to evaluate, design, and implement complex space systems. In addition, they are also responsible for providing technical advice to their clients and ensuring that the latest advancements in technology are integrated into the system. As a result, space systems analysts are integral to the success of any organization working with space systems.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a Space Systems Analyst is to earn a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as physics, aerospace engineering, computer science, or mathematics. Coursework should include classes related to space systems, such as orbital mechanics, spacecraft design and control, and space mission analysis.
Gain Work Experience. Potential space systems analysts should look for internships or entry-level jobs at space-related organizations such as NASA or private aerospace companies. Working for these organizations can provide hands-on experience in the field and can help aspiring space systems analysts gain the skills necessary for the job.
Earn a Graduate Degree. Earning an advanced degree, such as a master's or PhD in a related field, can give potential space systems analysts an edge in the job market. Advanced degrees allow systems analysts to specialize in a particular area of space systems and show employers that they have the knowledge and skills necessary for the job.
Obtain Industry Certifications. Earning certifications from organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or the International Space University (ISU) can help demonstrate an analyst's expertise and dedication to the field.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations such as the National Space Society (NSS) or the American Astronautical Society (AAS) can help space systems analysts stay informed on industry trends and network with other professionals in the field.

Being a reliable and competent Systems Analyst requires a combination of technical knowledge, analytical skills, problem-solving capabilities and the ability to communicate effectively. Technical knowledge includes an understanding of the specific systems being used within the organization, such as databases, programming languages, and network systems. Analytical skills are needed to assess the current technology infrastructure, identify potential problems and develop solutions.

Problem-solving abilities allow analysts to identify solutions that meet the organization's needs while being mindful of budget constraints. Effective communication is essential in order to ensure that information is shared between the analyst and other stakeholders. By having this combination of skills and abilities, a Systems Analyst can ensure reliable and competent results.

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Job Description

Space Systems Analyst: Responsible for researching, analyzing, and developing strategies to optimize the performance of space systems and related hardware. Involves working with a variety of space system components such as satellites, launchers, propulsion systems, and ground control systems.
Spacecraft Flight Dynamics Analyst: Responsible for analyzing the motion of spacecrafts in response to external forces, determining the effects of perturbations and disturbances on spacecraft trajectories, and developing control strategies to maintain spacecrafts in their desired orbits.
Mission Operations Analyst: Responsible for planning and executing a variety of mission operations activities such as tracking, telemetry, and commanding. Also responsible for managing mission-related data and verifying the accuracy of mission products.
Spacecraft Systems Engineer: Responsible for designing, developing, testing, and integrating various space system components such as satellites, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and ground control systems. Involves working with a variety of engineering disciplines such as electrical, computer, mechanical, and aerospace engineering.
Spacecraft System Architect: Responsible for developing overall system architectures for space systems. Involves working with a variety of disciplines including hardware, software, and mission operations. Responsible for ensuring that all components work together to accomplish the desired mission objectives.
Spacecraft Mission Manager: Responsible for planning and coordinating all aspects of a spacecraft mission from concept to completion. Involves working with a variety of stakeholders such as scientists, engineers, and operations personnel. Responsible for ensuring the mission is completed on time and within budget.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of satellite technology and systems
Expertise in satellite system design
Knowledge of space mission operations
Understanding of launch systems and procedures
Analytical and problem solving skills
Ability to interpret satellite system performance data
Ability to design, analyze and modify simulations
Ability to develop and maintain technical documentation
Familiarity with telecommunication and radio frequency systems
Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python
Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a team environment

The role of a Systems Analyst in Space Systems is an important one, as the analyst is responsible for ensuring the successful operation of spacecraft systems and subsystems. To be successful in this role, the Systems Analyst must possess a variety of skills, including analytical and technical problem solving, communication, and project management. Analytical problem solving involves the ability to identify and diagnose errors and malfunctions in spacecraft systems and to develop solutions to those issues.

Technical problem solving involves the ability to understand and work with complex software and hardware systems, as well as to be able to use various engineering tools and techniques to troubleshoot issues. Communication is important for the Systems Analyst in Space Systems because they must be able to explain technical concepts to a variety of stakeholders. Finally, project management requires the ability to manage a project timeline and budget, as well as to coordinate with multiple teams to ensure deadlines are met.

All of these skills are essential for a successful Systems Analyst in Space Systems.

Space Scientist, Space Robotics Engineer, and Spacecraft Assembly Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in space systems analysis?
How do you approach and analyze a complex system?
What challenges have you faced in the past while working on space system projects?
Describe a time when you had to analyze a system quickly and accurately.
What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy and completeness of your analysis?
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the space industry?
What methods do you use to gain insights from data associated with a space system?
Explain how you plan and develop models for space system simulations.
How do you evaluate the performance of a space system?
What tools and techniques do you use to identify and solve problems related to space systems?

Common Tools in Industry

MATLAB. A mathematical computing software used to analyze data and build models. (e. g. creating mathematical models of a satellite's trajectory)
STK. A simulation analysis and mission planning software used to analyze and visualize the motion of satellites and other space objects. (e. g. analyzing satellite orbits and trajectories)
SysML. A modeling language used to graphically represent system architectures, components, and their interactions. (e. g. diagramming a complex system of satellite components)
GNSS. An acronym for Global Navigation Satellite System, which is a network of satellites used for navigation and positioning of objects in space. (e. g. tracking the location of a satellite in space)
CAD Software. Computer Aided Design software used to create 3D models and simulations of components and systems. (e. g. creating a 3D model of a satellite for design and testing)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
American Astronautical Society (AAS)
Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC)
Satellite Industry Association (SIA)
National Space Society (NSS)
International Space University (ISU)
UK Space Agency (UKSA)
European Space Agency (ESA)
International Space Science Institute (ISSI)

We also have Space Station Flight Director, Space Debris Analyst, and Space Flight Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Telemetry. Data collected and transmitted by a spacecraft, usually monitored in real-time.
Orbital Mechanics. The application of Newtonian physics to predict the motion of objects in space.
Propulsion Systems. Systems designed to generate thrust to move a spacecraft in space.
Avionics. Electronic systems used to control the functions of a spacecraft.
Ground Control. A system of personnel and facilities used to coordinate activities of a spacecraft.
Mission Planning. The process of designing a mission and selecting the appropriate resources for its successful execution.
Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC). The use of computers and other systems to monitor and control the trajectory of a spacecraft.
Rendezvous and Docking. The coordination of two spacecrafts so that they can connect in space.
Space Environment. The physical and electrical conditions in which a spacecraft operates, including atmospheric drag, radiation, thermal effects, and gravity gradients.
Spacecraft Design. The process of designing a spacecraft to meet mission requirements and maximize performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Space Systems Analyst?

A Space Systems Analyst is a professional who works in the aerospace industry to analyze and optimize the performance of space systems, such as satellites, launch vehicles, and other spacecraft.

What skills are necessary to become a Space Systems Analyst?

In order to become a successful Space Systems Analyst, one must have strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of aerospace engineering, systems engineering, and computer programming, as well as excellent communication and organizational skills.

What type of work does a Space Systems Analyst do?

The work of a Space Systems Analyst involves designing, analyzing, and optimizing space systems; creating simulations and models; providing technical support; performing system testing; and developing software and hardware solutions.

What is the average salary of a Space Systems Analyst?

The average salary of a Space Systems Analyst ranges from $80,000 to $110,000 per year.

How can I become a Space Systems Analyst?

To become a Space Systems Analyst, one must typically have a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, as well as several years of experience working in the aerospace industry. Additionally, certifications from professional organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics may be beneficial.