Technology
The spacecraft of the future will need new technologies.
We are working on systems to detect gravitational waves, access the subsurface of other planets, and even grow the complex substances, such as antibiotics, that we will need as we spend more time in space.
Our researchers have developed precision optics, to detect minute changes in position, and new folding techniques to fit large solar sails into tiny packages. We have even used the geomagnetic field to direct the behaviour of nanosatellites.
Today, we are examining how rockets will interact with planetary surfaces, and how launch vehicles can be scaled down such that the nanosatellites of the future might have access to their own, individualised nanolaunchers.
Researcher profiles and projects
Professor Qammer H. Abbasi
My research includes:
- Antenna design for Satcom, 5G and 6G
- Millimetre and terahertz communication and sensing
- NTN
- Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces
- Integrated sensing, computing and communication
Projects
- Reflectarray and transmitarrays for satellites and 5G infrastructure
- Large intelligent reflective surfaces for 5G infrastructure, ground to satellite and UAV communication
- Heating effect in SATCOM
Dr Imran Shafique Ansari
I investigate wireless channel models for spectrally efficient and secure beyond 5G (B5G) satellite communications.
I am also exploring efficient energy harvesting solutions for wireless communications B5G in LEO / MEO via utilising free-space optical technology.
Projects
- System performance over a decode-and-forward relay experiencing k-u shadowed fading
- Demystifying future satellite networks from security perspective
Professor Lee Cronin
We have no idea what biochemistry is possible beyond Earth. However, only living systems can produce complex molecules in abundance, so we have developed a theory and experimental measure of molecular complexity which we can use for detecting life.
We are collaborating with NASA towards building a flight instrument for mapping the molecular complexity in extra-terrestrial samples. As part of our digitization of chemistry and Chemputer project we are also collaborating with satellite companies such as SpacePharma to develop automated chemical synthesis in microgravity environments.
Professor Patrick Harkness
I work on rocket propulsion and surface exploration projects.
Projects
- Rocket test facilities
- Rocket propulsion research
- Surface exploration concepts
- Surface exploration technologies
- Surface exploration projects
