Oliver Pineda Suárez
Robotics PhD Candidate at EPFL | Space Technologies Engineer | Automation, Digital Twins, and Data Solutions for Astronomy and Space
Doctoral Assistant at EPFL Astrobots
Activity
Loading activity...
Career: 12
Doctoral Assistant
EPFL Astrobots
Jul 2025 - Present
Doctoral Assistant
EPFL Astrobots
• Conduct performance testing and data analysis of swarms of micro-SCARA robotic fiber-positioners (RFPs) for Stage V spectroscopic surveys, contributing to the development of the European Southern Observatory (ESO)-led Wide-field Spectroscopic Telescope (WST) and the MUltiplexed Survey Telescope (MUST) led by Tsinghua University. • Development of target-assignment and collision-avoidance algorithms for RFP modules.
Doctoral Assistant
Laboratory of Astrophysics (LASTRO) at EPFL
Jul 2025 - Present
Doctoral Assistant
Laboratory of Astrophysics (LASTRO) at EPFL
• Safety Correspondant (COSEC) • Teaching Assistant: - EE-585: Space Mission Design and Operations - MICRO-453: Robotics Practicals
Space Systems Digital Twin Engineer
Maxon International Ltd.
Aug 2024 - Jan 2025
Space Systems Digital Twin Engineer
Maxon International Ltd.
• Ongoing assessment of emerging technologies and strategies to enhance Digital Twins for MBSE in space applications. • Implementation of a Type 2 Reactive AAS API solution (FastAPI), user interfaces (Streamlit), and OWL semantic models for the space sector • Creation of guidelines, tutorials, and best practices for using AAS models and definition standards for data cleansing and validation • Training and support of employees regarding the new data structures, processes, and future usage of the AAS data models in the space industry
Digital Twin Solutions Engineer
Maxon International Ltd.
Feb 2024 - Aug 2024
Digital Twin Solutions Engineer
Maxon International Ltd.
• Development of a Python-based (BaSyx) custom solution for dynamic automated generation of Industry 4.0 Asset Administration Shell (AAS) Digital Twins (Type 1 - Passive), in compliance with the metamodel established in IEC 63278-1:2023 and the IDTA guidelines • Development of a data solution and a Streamlit UI for Identification Links and Digital Nameplates based on IEC 61406-1:2022 and IEC 63365:2022, respectively. This solution captures both technical and non-technical product data while automating report generation. • Researched and analyzed existing data sources (e.g., ERP, data warehouse, or CAQ) to connect them to the proposed solution and ensure data consistency and completeness for its transfer to AAS models. • Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the cross-organizational interoperability of the models
Software Developer
eSpace - EPFL Space Center
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Sep 2023 - Feb 2024
Software Developer
eSpace - EPFL Space Center
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Semester project focused on improving the Technology Combination Analysis Tool (TCAT) developed by eSpace for the European Space Agency (ESA).This tool is used to model, simulate, and optimize space logistics scenarios. The goal of the project was to extend TCAT's functionality for lunar and interplanetary use case missions
Lead On-Board Computer Engineer
EPFL Spacecraft Team
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Aug 2023 - Feb 2024
Lead On-Board Computer Engineer
EPFL Spacecraft Team
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
• Developed the CHESS Mission's OBC Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and Design Solution Definition (DSD) • Led the testing of the Twocan On-Board Computer (OBC), ensuring its compliance with the specific requirements and objectives of the Twocan In-Orbit Demonstration launched in January 2025. • Led the Twocan OBC's redesign for the upcoming CHESS mission.
Flight Software Engineer
EPFL Spacecraft Team
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Feb 2023 - Jul 2023
Flight Software Engineer
EPFL Spacecraft Team
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Semester project focused on the development of the flight software (F Prime component) to interface the X-Band communication systems controlling the OBC and an X-Band transmitter for the In-Orbit Demonstration that served as a foundation for the CHESS mission.
Metrology Laboratory Technical Manager
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
Dec 2020 - Aug 2022
Metrology Laboratory Technical Manager
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
• EMA (Entidad Mexicana de Acreditación) Accredited for test and calibration of measurement instruments of the following magnitudes: Temperature, Mass, Pressure, Dimensional, Electrical, and Torque. As well as torque transducers. • Developed calibration procedures, uncertainty budget calculations, and laboratory CMC (Calibration and Measurement Capabilities) Lists. • Performed quality assurance duties such as daily inspections to ensure that procedures are followed and development of improvements in laboratory quality procedures. • Performed calibrations to measuring instruments and test equipment to analyze their performance ensuring that they meet their specific technical requirements.
Nondestructive Testing Engineer
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
Dec 2019 - Dec 2020
Nondestructive Testing Engineer
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
• Developed Nondestructive Inspections through Visual (Borescope), Eddy Current, Magnetic Particles, Ultrasound, Radiographic and Liquid Penetrant testing methods to several engines, aircraft models and components in the industry. • Developed an application to automate aircraft weight and balance calculations and inspection report generation.
Technical Assistant & Software Developer
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
Jan 2015 - Dec 2019
Technical Assistant & Software Developer
NAPSA - Nueva Aeronáutica Profesional
Mexico City, Mexico
• Developed a Java application for Work Order management and a VBA and Python application for quote and invoice management. • Assisted in the development of tool calibrations and Non-Destructive Testing Inspections.
Electronics and Flight Software Engineer
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial
Mexico City, Mexico
Jul 2017 - Jun 2019
Electronics and Flight Software Engineer
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial
Mexico City, Mexico
• Designed, developed, and tested CanSat’s electronics and flight software.
Lead Commmunications, Data Handling and Ground Control Station Engineer
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial
Mexico City, Mexico
Jul 2016 - Jun 2019
Lead Commmunications, Data Handling and Ground Control Station Engineer
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial
Mexico City, Mexico
• Developed a Ground Control Station capable of receiving and processing telemetry packages and sending commands to manually operate the CanSat’s actuators. • Developed a LabVIEW digital twin that replicates CanSat’s 3D attitude in real time.
Education: 6
EPFL
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD
Jul 2025 - Jul 2029
EPFL
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD
EPFL
Master of Science - MS
Sep 2022 - Mar 2025
EPFL
Master of Science - MS
• Minor in Space Technologies
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Bachelor of Science - BS
Aug 2015 - Dec 2019
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Bachelor of Science - BS
• CENEVAL National Prize for Excellence in Performance • Minor in Applied Robotics
Самарский Государственный Аэрокосмический Университет
Undergraduate Exchange Program
Jun 2019
Самарский Государственный Аэрокосмический Университет
Undergraduate Exchange Program
The aim of this intensive course was the design of scientific nanosatellites using state-of-art computer technologies. It included an introduction into advanced space technologies for Low Earth Orbit satellites.
Instituto Politécnico Nacional
Bachelor of Science - BS
Aug 2015 - Jun 2019
Instituto Politécnico Nacional
Bachelor of Science - BS
• Specialization in Aircraft Design and Manufacturing
芝浦工業大学
Undergraduate Exchange Program
Jul 2018
芝浦工業大学
Undergraduate Exchange Program
Exchange through the academic partnership held between Tecnológico de Monterrey and Shibaura Institute of Technology (芝浦工業大学) as part of the Applied Robotics Minor Program.
Projects: 10
Master Thesis - Digitization of Space Components: Implementing Dynamic Automated Generation of Standardized Digital Twin Data Models for Interoperability and Traceability in Space Projects
Aug 2024 - Feb 2025
Master Thesis - Digitization of Space Components: Implementing Dynamic Automated Generation of Standardized Digital Twin Data Models for Interoperability and Traceability in Space Projects
This research explored the usage of the Asset Administration Shell metamodel in space projects to integrate Industry 4.0 approaches and advance the Space 4.0 paradigm, with a focus on its application in MBSE tools and LCA frameworks. A custom service is developed to connect the company's digital infrastructure and automatically generate standardized Digital Twin representations of their products. Additionally, the metamodel was enhanced for the space industry by incorporating relevant standards, schemas, and semantic ontologies, enabling cross-organizational interoperability with other space companies and agencies. The proposed solution was qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated through performance tests and a stakeholder analysis. The study was conducted within maxon international, renowned for its precision drive systems and with vast experience working in space projects such as the International Berthing and Docking Mechanism, Lunar and Mars rovers, and the Ingenuity Mars helicopter. The project was led by the Digital Technology Group, which focuses on developing advanced solutions to drive the company's digital transformation. In collaboration with the maxon SpaceLab, a team specializing in high-reliability solutions for space applications, the project aimed to develop a component-agnostic automated solution for encapsulating and structuring asset data used in space projects. This solution focuses on improving data exchange within this domain for improvements in traceability and lifecycle management.
CHESS Mission - TwoCan OBC In-Orbit Demonstration
Feb 2023 - Feb 2024
CHESS Mission - TwoCan OBC In-Orbit Demonstration
The Constellation of High-performance Exospheric Science Satellites of the EPFL Spacecraft Team aims to send two nano-satellites (CubeSat) into Earth orbit. The mission comprises two 3U CubeSats, equipped with scientific instruments developed by the universities of Bern and Zurich. The satellites will be placed on slightly different orbits, with one circular and the other elliptical, enabling complementary measurement of the exosphere from different vantage points.
Space Logistics Optimization: Interplanetary Scenario Infrastructure
drive.google.com/file/d/1TB_JHbnJzFFQS7oPmmrjtUQd8c9-hdTJ/view?usp=drivesdk
Sep 2023 - Jan 2024
Space Logistics Optimization: Interplanetary Scenario Infrastructure
drive.google.com/file/d/1TB_JHbnJzFFQS7oPmmrjtUQd8c9-hdTJ/view?usp=drivesdk
The addition of an Interplanetary Scenario to TCAT serves as a framework for the simulation and evaluation of interplanetary missions, providing a foundation for future improvements that could be added to this tool to include more complex models and optimize the results.
Academic Network Sustainability Simulation
Dec 2022 - May 2023
Academic Network Sustainability Simulation
This project is aimed to see differences in means of travel in an academic setting. Our simulation and infographic are based on Mobitool website data. Only European meetings have been considered for the purposes of the tool.
CARINA Mission - Deployment of a constellation of Lunar Pathfinders around the Moon
cdf.epfl.ch/ce_studies/2023_ENG-411
Mar 2023
CARINA Mission - Deployment of a constellation of Lunar Pathfinders around the Moon
cdf.epfl.ch/ce_studies/2023_ENG-411
The main objective of this study performed at EPFL Space Center (eSpace) Concurrent Design Facility (CDF) as part of the Concurrent Engineering Challenge 2023 course was to design and develop a deployer that can transport and launch a constellation of satellites into frozen orbits around the moon. The deployer will then deploy five satellites separately to achieve optimal coverage of the lunar surface. The mission will provide precise navigation, redundancy, and extended coverage of the south pole of the moon.
Bachelor Thesis - Risk Analysis for the Radiographic Testing processes in an Aeronautical Repair Station according to what is established in the 6.1 clause of the ISO 9001:2015 Standard
May 2021 - Oct 2021
Bachelor Thesis - Risk Analysis for the Radiographic Testing processes in an Aeronautical Repair Station according to what is established in the 6.1 clause of the ISO 9001:2015 Standard
The FMEA methodology (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) was implemented to ponder the risk and its impact on the different elements that make up said process and thus propose and apply corrective and preventive actions in the detected failure modes. Throughout the analysis analog, computational and digital radiographic processes were compared as well as the costs and benefits of implementing them to reduce the impact of risk on the organization.
Bachelor Thesis - CubeSat Soft Robotic Arm Prototype for Space Debris Removal
Aug 2019 - Dec 2019
Bachelor Thesis - CubeSat Soft Robotic Arm Prototype for Space Debris Removal
Development of a space debris solution prototype for a CubeSat module implementing Power Electronics and Soft Robotics, specifically Hydraulically Amplified Self‐Healing Electrostatic (HASEL) Actuators and Dielectric Minimum Energy Structures (DEMES).
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial - CanSat Competition
facebook.com/CuauhtemocIPN/
Sep 2016 - Jul 2019
Cuauhtémoc IPN Aeroespacial - CanSat Competition
facebook.com/CuauhtemocIPN/
Work team focused on the development of student projects in the aerospace field, with the mission of disseminate and demonstrate the high level of training and skills of mexican students.
SSDISAT - Space Debris Inspection Satellite
Jun 2019
SSDISAT - Space Debris Inspection Satellite
Development of a nanosatellite (6 Unit CubeSat) proposal for a space mission with the objective of operating the satellite around another obsolete spacecraft or object to develop an inspection of it with the help of a 256 x 256 pixels camera that will capture images of the object. Those images will be processed later by implementing a previously trained convolutional neural network system to create a stream segmentation to autonomously process and select data from the space debris. The mission was proposed to be developed at a LEO (Low Earth Orbit) of approximately 500 km with an approximate inclination of 51.6°.
SPYBOT - Multipurpose Machine Learning Object Recognition Robot
Jul 2018
SPYBOT - Multipurpose Machine Learning Object Recognition Robot
Development of a multipurpose machine learning object recognition robot implementing a live webstream continuously processed with the help of a neural network. To be able to recognize objects CNN algorithms were used with the convenience of the data access, image acquisition, and visualization capabilities in MATLAB. Furthermore, an HTML website was developed to link MATLAB and the robot’s microcontroller, so that the feed of the robot’s camera could be streamed and projected continuously onto MATLAB. The robot’s movement was determined by a link between the website and the robot’s microcontroller so that the commands given by the user on the website could be received.
Credentials: 30
Digitalisation in Space Research
Technical University of Munich
Internal Auditor Based on ISO 19011:2018 Guidelines and ISO 9001:2015 Requirements
Instituto Politécnico Nacional
EE585x: Space Mission Design and Operations
Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne
Introduction to CubeSat Technology
AGENCIA ESPACIAL MEXICANA
Emerging Trends in Aviation Maintenance
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
SCRUMstudy - Accreditation Body for Scrum and Agile
Programming a Quantum Computer with Qiskit - IBM SDK
Coursera Course Certificates
University of Sydney
deeplearning.ai
MathWorks
Artificial Intelligence for Medicine Specialization
deeplearning.ai
Kauffman Fellows
Addressing Large Hadron Collider Challenges by Machine Learning
Государственный Университет - Высшая Школа Экономики
Investment Management with Python and Machine Learning Specialization
EDHEC Business School
LBTechX1: Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market
Harvard Online
AGI (Analytical Graphics, Inc.)
ENGR2000X: A Hands-on Introduction to Engineering Simulations
Cornell University
Phased Array Training - Weld Inspection
Waygate Technologies
Phased Array Training - Corrosion Mapping
Waygate Technologies
Introduction to Rocket and Satellite Engineering
Московский Государственный Университет им. М.В. Ломоносова (МГУ)
Remote Visual Inspection Training - 3D Measurements of Turbomachinery and Corrosion
Waygate Technologies
Certified Solidworks Associate - Mechanical Design
Dassault Systèmes
MathWorks
MathWorks
MathWorks
ASQ Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt
ASQ - World Headquarters
Maintenance Technician Class 1
Agencia Federal de Aeronautica Civil (AFAC)
Introduction to Space Engineering Applied to Satellites
Facultad de Ingeniería de la UNAM
IB Bilingual Diploma Programme
Bachillerato Internacional
Publications: 2
Massive Spectroscopy in Dense Environment - from emerging technologies to new science
VLT Beyond 2030
Conference PaperKneib, Jean-Paul, Chapuis, Diane, Galal, Malak, Mellinand, Gloria, Pernecker, Sebastien, Pineda, Oliver, Rombach, Maxime, Wei, Jonathan
Prototyping of 6.2-mm-Pitch Fiber Positioner Modules for Stage-V Telescope Instrumentation
arXiv e-prints
Working PaperGalal, Malak, Rombach, Maxime, Wei, Jonathan, Pineda Suárez, Oliver, Araújo, Ricardo, Pernecker, Sébastien, Bault, Abby, Silber, Joseph Harry, Wenner, Nicholas, Besuner, Robert, Kirkby, David, Van Shourt, William, Caseiro, Stefane, Magnenat, Corentin, Moser, Yves, Kobayashi, Yasuyuki, Fukushima, Eri, Sonoda, Satoshi, Suto, Ayumu, Schlegel, David, Kneib, Jean-Paul
Awards: 4
CENEVAL National Prize for Excellence in Performance
National Prize for Outstanding Performance in the final Undergraduate Mechatronics Engineering EGEL-IMECATRO (Examen General para el Egreso de Licenciatura) exam from the Mexican National Center for Undergraduate Evaluation (CENEVAL).
CanSat Competition 2019
Certificate of Participation
CanSat Competition 2018
International 9th Place
CanSat Competition 2017
International 5th Place