Adaptive communication modelling using software defined radio

This project will present the opportunity to collaborate with leading space industries such as Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recently led a push for space agencies and industry to move from the over utilised S- and X-Band Telemetry Tracking and Control (TT&C) and Payload links into X- and Ka-Bands (25.5-27 GHz) respectively and in the longer term we may see a move into Q- or V-Band for high data throughput systems. However, in the Ka-, Q- and V-Band case there is limited accuracy in the current ESA and NASA atmospheric loss models for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) missions covering rain and ice depolarisation, tropospheric scintillation, and other attenuations leading to a fading and lossy satellite link. Combining SSC and SSTL expertise in software defined radio and LEO communication links towards new adaptive coding and modulation (ACM) techniques, Surrey plans to lead the way in characterising these channels, as well as determining techniques and hardware required for future communications in these bands.

This studentship is open to home and EU students.

Applicants are expected to hold one of the following:

1. A first or upper-second class degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent overseas qualification)
2. A lower-second plus a good masters degree (distinction normally required).

Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS Academic 6.5 or above (or equivalent).