About the role#
Overview Energy is building infrastructure to redirect solar energy from orbit to terrestrial projects. As an Optics Intern, you will work on the ground beacon system that serves as the pointing reference for our satellites. You will work hands-on with the emitter and observational telescope to ensure the system is aligned and characterized. You will also develop a field alignment procedure to correct shifts that occur during transport to the test site. This work is a funded deliverable for a Department of War energy program.
What you'll do#
- Align the beacon laser and verify pointing outside the emitter aperture.
- Characterize laser output, including power, beam profile, divergence, and pointing stability.
- Co-align the beacon laser with the observational telescope to verify boresight.
- Design a repeatable field alignment procedure to correct misalignment caused by transport and installation.
- Write clear instructions for the alignment procedure so non-optics operators can execute it, then validate the process hands-on.
- Maintain detailed records of alignment and characterization to support engineering decisions.
What you'll need#
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program in optics, optical engineering, physics, or a related field.
- Coursework or lab experience with optical alignment, including mounts, mirrors, lenses, and beam paths.
- Careful documentation habits.
- Willingness to complete laser safety training and follow protocol.
- Experience with beam profilers, power meters, autocollimators, or shear plates is preferred.
- Familiarity with telescope operation or astronomical instrumentation.
- Experience with optical design software like Zemax OpticStudio, Quadoa, or Code V.
- Experience writing test or alignment procedures for others to follow.
- Interest in defense, space, or energy applications.
Location & details#
- This is a paid, part-time, on-site internship located in Ashburn, Virginia.
- The term runs from September 2026 through March 2027.
- Commitment is approximately 10 hours per week.
- This position is subject to ITAR regulations. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual.
About Overview Energy
Overview Energy operates in the space research and technology sector. The company develops satellites designed to capture sunlight in orbit and transmit it to the power grid on Earth. It maintains a focus on providing a continuous solar energy resource. Founded in 2022, the organization is based in Ashburn, Virginia, and employs between 11 and 50 people.
How to get in at Overview Energy
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