Autonomous Space Systems Networking PhD

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD studentship at Cranfield University, in the field of space systems engineering, satellite telecommunications and security. The project aims to explore and develop new approaches and enabling technologies for autonomous interconnected space systems networking.

The increased performance and higher cost efficiency in both platforms and launch services enabled the development of constellations of hundreds (even thousands) of small satellites. Constellations have become a predominant phenomenon of the New Space ecosystem. They have fostered the development of new downstream services such as global broadband coverage and low latency data communications in the telecommunication field, or high-resolution global-scale coverage and near real-time measurements in the Earth observation field.

Despite the large number of satellites in space, space missions, including satellite constellation missions, mostly operate independently from each other, even though many of the resources required might be common among them. Furthermore, most missions still rely on the traditional ground centralized mission planning that struggles to keep pace with the new requirements imposed by the rapid growth in scale of the space segment. The isolation, together with the low level of autonomy, is preventing the exploitation of the full potential of space assets limiting, in turn, the value delivered to the end customer.

This research aims to address some of the current challenges in this field by exploring and developing new approaches and enabling technologies for autonomous interconnected space systems networking. The outcome of such research is of great interest for both commercial and military applications.

Research areas include:

• Space systems and constellations
• Cutting-edge space telecommunication systems (e.g., Free-Space optical communications)
• Network of networks
• Variable trust networking/transport-aware data (e.g., blockchain-based transport-aware data, tagged based on the path travelled)
• Software-defined wide area network for GEO-LEO-Terrestrial
• Edge and distributed computing

Start date: 03 May 2023

Duration of award: 3 years

Supervisor

Dr Nicola Garzaniti

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. Background/interest in space systems would be a distinct advantage, as would familiarity with space telecommunication, AI and Machine Learning methods, and systems evaluation concerning cybersecurity.

Experience in computer programming (e.g., Python, C++) and relevant engineering software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK, GMAT) is an essential asset. Hands-on experience with spacecraft onboard computers or embedded systems and relevant telecommunication hardware is preferred. Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in technical writing. A track record of publications in well-recognized journals and conferences is preferred

Funding

Sponsored by Cranfield University, this studentship will provide a bursary up to £18,000 (tax free) plus fees* for three years. To be eligible for this funding, we require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK.

How to apply

Name: Dr Nicola Garzaniti

Email: [email protected]

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.