Summer Interns Receive Hands-on Experience at ASF
by Steve Balistreri, ASF User Services
As winter in Alaska’s interior begins dissipating, the ASF Data Quality team starts planning for another summer of research, design and maintenance in the field. In addition, ASF recruits interns annually for specific work and training opportunities.
Drawing from the university system, the national and international science communities and the community of Alaska, ASF seeks interns who will introduce a fresh perspective to ongoing projects. “It’s a hands-on experience for those involved,” says Wade Albright, the ASF Data Quality lead.
Last year, Albright worked closely with intern Robert Strick to construct a new device for data calibration. Using ASF resources, Strick created a unique, currently operational piece of equipment—the transportable corner reflector.
A major advantage of Strick’s slimmeddown reflector design is its collapsible frame. When deployed, it can be carried in the field using a customized backpack frame.
In terms of manufacturing customized hardware, projects such as Strick’s require large-scale adaptability, given the unconventional materials and designs required for seasonally extreme Alaska fi eldwork conditions. Strick worked with Geophysical Institute machine shop staff to build his portable corner reflector.
“The tools in the machine shop are things you probably won’t see in smaller towns” says Strick, a Native Alaskan who has spent the majority of his life in the 48-square-mile village of McGrath, adjacent to the Kuskokwim River.
The combination of resources offered by ASF and the university provides a dynamic atmosphere for work experience and education. “There is a great deal of satisfaction having a hand in creating projects like these,” says Albright. “One of the best ways to learn is on the job, in a working environment.”
ASF is adding an international element to the internship program this year. In April, an engineering student, Ernst Weissbrodt, from Karlsruhr University in Germany begins working with the Data Quality group. He will support field work and assist with developing improvements for stationary corner reflectors.
“We are happy to establish ties with our European colleagues, who have a wealth of experience with SAR through the ERS and Envisat missions,” says Remote Sensing Support Center Manager, Dr. Don Atwood. “Student interns serve as the bridge in sharing technical ideas and creating new opportunities for data access.”
ASF is working to create a similar internship opportunity with the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), which plans to launch the Advanced Land Observation Satellite (ALOS) SAR mission this fall. While involving international elements in ASF’s calibration efforts, ASF hopes to strengthen ties with national programs and scientists to promote the ongoing development of SAR expertise.
To read more information about the various experiences and accomplishments of ASF interns, including papers, project outlines and journals; and to discover how to become part of the intern program, go to http://www.asf.alaska.edu/3_6_5.html. To see what corner reflectors look like and learn the role corner reflectors play in data referencing, please visit the data calibration page on the ASF Web site at http://www.asf.alaska.edu/3_6_2.html
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