Modelling and Analysis Methods for Satellite Aerodynamics in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO)

Operation of spacecraft in very low Earth orbits (VLEO), those below 450 km in altitude, is becoming more commonplace. For example, Starlink satellites are routinely deployed to lower altitudes prior to being raised into their operational orbits and new constellations of EO and communications satellites are readying for launch.

However, whilst there are a range of benefits of reducing orbital altitude [1], the increased atmospheric density in these lower altitude orbits increases the magnitude of aerodynamic forces and torques experienced. This aerodynamic environment is further complicated by the high variability and uncertainty in the atmospheric density, thermospheric winds, and the fundamental gas-surface interactions (GSIs) that govern the momentum transfer between the oncoming flow and the orbiting body. These factors all significantly affect our ability to model and predict the position and motion of satellites orbiting at these altitudes and has a significant impact on operations and planning for satellites in this regime. The analysis of data obtained from scientific satellites that have been launched to further understanding of this environment is similarly impacted.

In 2021, the University of Manchester launched the Satellite for Orbital Aerodynamics Research (SOAR), with the aim to increase knowledge and understanding of the fundamental GSIs in VLEO and to test novel materials that have the potential to reduce drag in this rarefied aerodynamic environment [2,3].

In this PhD you will focus on developing new methods and improving current models used to analyse satellite aerodynamics and therefore the orbit and attitude determination, propagation, and conjunction analysis of satellites operating in VLEO. This will then be applied to:

i)     analysis of data from satellite experiments in VLEO (including SOAR) to yield new information on the GSIs in this regime.

ii)    design of new mission concepts that can provide valuable new data to enhance our knowledge of the environment and GSIs in VLEO and operations of spacecraft in this regime.

iii)   development of methods to improve trajectory prediction, manoeuvre planning, and SSA/SDA in VLEO (e.g., debris modelling and prediction) – including development of operational methods (i.e., increased computational performance/efficiency and application to high-performance computing methods.

This project is well suited to candidates who are interested in spacecraft aerodynamics and astrodynamics, aerospace systems modelling, and atmospheric physics. As part of the Space Systems Engineering Research Group at the University of Manchester, you will work alongside experts in astrodynamics, space systems modelling, mission analysis and novel space propulsion systems.

We will support you to develop expertise in orbital aerodynamics and systems modelling, and acquire skills in mathematics, programming, research methods, article writing, and presentation skills. You will take ownership of the outlined project, proposing your own approach and solutions, and will be encouraged to share your findings with an international community of scientists and engineers at conferences and through journal publications.

For this project we are seeking exceptional candidates with high research potential who we can nominate for our competitive funding and scholarship opportunities available at The University of Manchester.

Eligibility

The minimum academic entry requirement for a PhD in the Faculty of Science and Engineering is an upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD OR any upper-second class honours degree (or international equivalent) and a Master’s degree merit (or international equivalent) in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD.

Full entry requirements

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply.

How to apply

To be considered for this project you’ll need to complete a formal application through our online application portal.

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, how you’re planning on funding your research, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Funding

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).