Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2024
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
Radar tracking have been used to study the surface of solid planets and hazardous asteroids in the solar system by NASA and JPL since the 60's. Extremely precise radar observations of asteroids have provided key data to understand the evolution of the solar system and planetary defence. The same technique can be applied to detect, target, and monitor space objects orbiting the Earth. The University of Tasmania in collaboration with NASA and CSIRO has experimented to detect and characterise the profile of a series of defunct space objects.
The goal of this project is to develop a centimetre-wavelength multi-static space radar capability to augment Australia's sovereign capability in space surveillance. This is achieved by upgrading the cutting-edge space infrastructure at the University of Tasmania and building on the successful proof-of-concept demonstrations of multi-static radar systems with space debris in collaboration with CSIRO. This project will boost UTAS capabilities in space exploration, satellite tracking and space traffic management.
Furthermore, hybrid observations (radar + optical) of space objects can improve the understanding the composition, dimensions, and orbital ephemerides of the targets. Hybrid observations are rare since very few ground facilities around the world have this capability. UTAS is unique with the two optical telescopes at Bisdee Tier and the antenna comms ground station.
The future student will undertake data collection using the sensors, conduct the data analysis and reduction. The student will be responsible to combine data from radio and optical domain. The project will be linked to grant proposal submitted to the Australia's Economic Accelerator Seed Grant scheme (AE240300120) in 2024 by the main supervisor that aims to upgrade the infrastructure with new transmitting system and develop advanced radar techniques. However, the success of this HDR project is completely independent of the outcome of the proposal.
Primary Supervisor
Meet Dr Guifre Molera CalvesFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Guifre Molera Calves to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2024.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
