Eunice
"Studying on this course and expanding my learning has made me a far better space engineer than I thought possible, and for that I am genuinely grateful."
Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?
Choosing to study Astronautics and Space Engineering MSc at Surrey was an easy decision when I realised how tailored the curriculum is to satellite development, which has always been my focus within the broader space industry ecosystem.
I was also compelled to pick Surrey for the university's affiliation with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL), a world leading name in small satellite technology, and the presence of the Surrey Space Centre on campus. The idea of studying at the Space Centre, being immersed in cutting-edge space research and gaining first-hand involvement in real space missions sealed the deal!
Eunice in Surrey Space Centre.
What are the best things about Surrey and your course?
One of the most outstanding aspects of this course is how it has stretched my mental faculties in ways I never anticipated.
Before starting this programme at Surrey, my thinking was largely confined to missions in Low Earth Orbit and satellites no larger than CubeSats. But, from early on in my learning, I noticed lecturers casually discussing deep space missions in class, and through the coursework and module content, I was pushed to master techniques I hadn't encountered. These included interplanetary mission design, radar remote sensing, the architecture of communications systems for deep space environments, understanding the space environment across varying orbital altitudes, and even programming space-flown avionics such as the LEON3 processor.
Studying on this course and expanding my learning has made me a far better space engineer than I thought possible, and for that I am genuinely grateful.
"One experience that stands out is participating in a live contact session with astronauts aboard the International Space Station and putting into practice the radio frequency principles we studied in our Space Avionics module."
What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?
The best thing about life as a postgraduate student at Surrey is the experiences I’ve had. One experience that stands out is participating in a live contact session with astronauts aboard the International Space Station and putting into practice the radio frequency principles we studied in our Space Avionics module. This was such a special moment and one I will remember forever.
I also appreciate the campus' close proximity to London, which has provided access to industry opportunities, such as attending Space Comm Europe in March.
Beyond these highlights, I have enjoyed conducting my dissertation research and development, which is focused on the implementation of the LSIS-AFS reference architecture for future lunar navigation. Throughout the dissertation process, I have interacted with research students from the on-board data handling group, alongside my supervisor, who has provided invaluable mentorship and shaped the direction of my project in profound ways.
The most pivotal moment in my career development so far has been presenting my dissertation project at the Goonhilly Earth Station, which is an opportunity I do not take for granted.
"I hope to serve as a meaningful resource to my home continent, Africa, pioneering deep space mission capabilities, contributing to the development of satellite technology, and helping to build a thriving space industry."
What are your career plans?
My immediate goal is to work in space avionics, specialising in field-programmable gate array (FPGA) development and electronics design, and to have my own footprint in orbit through the systems I build. I am also actively exploring the prospect of pursuing a PhD to further deepen my knowledge and expertise in the field.
Looking further ahead, I hope to serve as a meaningful resource to my home continent, Africa, by pioneering deep space mission capabilities, contributing to the development of satellite technology, and helping to build a thriving space industry. Ultimately, I want to be part of the generation that stakes Africa's claim firmly in space exploration.
What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?
First, have a solid sense of why you are doing this. This has been my greatest anchor, especially when times get tough. Tapping into exactly why you chose this path recalibrates you and sets you back in motion when you face challenges.
Secondly, one year isn’t that long and whilst you should enjoy and explore everything the experience has to offer, make a deliberate effort to give it your all from the onset and stay consistent.
Lastly, there is something my supervisor said to us at the start of our dissertation project which has stuck with me and steadied me through the turbulence of research: "Become one with the chaos.” Best of luck!
