Reliable communications to small launch vehicles
Project Lead: James Osborn
Institution: Durham University
Partner: Viper RF
Amount: £59,344
Theme: Smart and Resilient Networks
Growing global demand for low cost, reliable and routine access to space is increasing the need for small launch vehicles. Modern launch operations require high rate telemetry and real time video during critical flight phases.
This project will develop a novel optical targeted, ground based RF communication system for rockets, delivered in collaboration with ViperRF and underpinned by Durham University research.
By evaluating end to end architectures, the project will define pathways to robust, secure, high throughput communication systems, enabling a reliable off the shelf rocket communications module for next generation UK and international launch services.
The project will be led by an Early Career Researcher (ECR) as part of Durham University Spaceflight (DUSF) , strengthening future regional capability and leadership in advanced space communications.
