Strategic Engineering for Valuing and Designing In-Orbit Servicing for Resilience in Contested and Congested Orbits
Abstract
Can satellites be designed to adapt as threats evolve? This PhD will investigate when in-orbit inspection, refuelling, repair and upgrades can improve the resilience of space services operating in extreme conditions. Combining , engineering design, decision analysis and artificial intelligence, the research will compare serviceable satellites with replacement strategies under orbital congestion and adversarial disruption. It will connect satellite interfaces, servicing infrastructure and operating decisions to lifecycle costs and service continuity. A representative constellation case study will produce practical design guidance and a prototype assessment tool. The project offers an opportunity to shape more adaptable and responsible space infrastructure.
How to Apply
Please contact Dr Michel-Alexandre Cardin if you are interested in applying for this project.
For more information on submitting a PhD application, please consult our application pages here. When you submit your application, please cite this project title in the 'how you are planning to fund your PhD' section.
The deadline for submitting your application is 11 January 2027.