ERASMUS and OBW
Once again this year, students from all over the world have found their way to the IRS to get to know the research landscape of space engineering and the University of Stuttgart as part of student exchange programs. We would like to highlight ERASMUS and the Ontario/Baden Württemberg program (OBW) in particular. The students were involved in a wide range of sustainability-related research.
The OBW is a research exchange exclusively designed for nominated undergraduate or graduate students from one of ten research universities located in the province of Ontario, Canada or from one of nine research universities in Baden-Württemberg. In a 4-month project, a student had the chance to engage in the field of sustainability in spaceflight and learn more about current research at IRS in the fields of life cycle assessment for launchers and space vehicles, upper stage recovery, aerodynamic satellite manoeuvres as well as planetary sunshade for climate change mitigation.
“Although my background from my home university stemmed from Mechanical Engineering, I found the instructional format of the space projects I partook in were direct enough that I was able to follow without great difficulty. […] [The experience] left me with a vast capacity of knowledge among different undertakings not only at the IRS, but in the space sector. “
”Having been granted the opportunity to be a student in this exchange program, I believe this program offers a good approach to gaining valuable insights into the culture and environment of the host country. Firsthand experience of German academic systems and daily life broadened my perspective and enriched my learning, equipping me with skills in a globalized world. In terms of fostering collaboration with research projects between Ontario and Baden Württemberg, I encourage this program to create more integration with joint initiatives between this partnership. […]. Overall, there were many resources provided to me as an international student through the assistance of the advisors at the University of Stuttgart. This allowed for a smooth transition in terms of campus lifestyle and housing, making my adjustment manageable. I am grateful to have participated in such a program and I have learned a lot that I will apply to my future endeavours.“ G.W.M.A.
We were also supported in our research by ERASMUS students from France, who joined the research team on the water electrolysis engine for ROMEO.
“It has been the occasion to discuss with many actors in the field of space, starting with my internship supervisors. This internship greatly enhanced my knowledge and skills in a field I particularly affectionate. Finally, helping to clarify my future work aspirations. The environment of the internship, in open-space within a university fostered independent work while facilitating teamwork and maintaining open lines of communication with my supervisors for guidance and clarifications.”
“During the time of my internship, I significantly expanded my programming capabilities. While improving pre-existing skills in Python, I also acquired solid knowledge in Excel’s VBA […]. This dual focus allowed me to enhance data manipulation and analysis abilities across multiple platform.” A.G.