Strategic Engineering for a Future Sustainable Space Resource Economy
Abstract
How should space resource systems be designed when future demand, technology and policy remain uncertain? This PhD will develop adaptive architectures for extracting, processing and delivering resources such as lunar water, oxygen and metals. Combining , economic modelling and environmental assessment, the research will compare staged, modular investments with fixed development plans. A representative lunar value chain will reveal when flexibility improves lifecycle value, resilience and resource efficiency relative to supply from Earth. The project offers an opportunity to shape practical design guidance for a space resource economy whose economic and environmental benefits are assessed together.
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.