Space Optical Communications

The University of Auckland is developing a research programme in optical communications between ground and orbiting satellites. We are looking for a PhD candidate to adapt an existing optical telescope, and build optical instrumentation to demonstrate optical communications from satellites in low earth orbit.

New Zealand is part of the Australian Optical Ground Segment Working Group. The Network will comprise optical telescopes across Australasia to enable optical communications as a service between ground and space. A goal of this research will be to integrate the New Zealand optical ground station node with the Network.

The ideal candidate will have skills or experience in

* Applied optoelectronics, optical instrumentation design, astronomical instrumentation,

* Practical astronomy, astronomical observations,

* Electronics, microelectronics and embedded programming,

* Scientific computer programming, experimental data acquisition

• Data analysis, modelling,

If you are interested in this opportunity, please note the following:

Check your eligibility to take a PhD at The University of Auckland at Check your eligibility to take a PhD at The University of Auckland at https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/applications-and-admissions/entry-requirements/postgraduate-entry-requirements/doctoral-entry-requirements.html

Some information on this project is available here: 

1. SPIE Article
2. IJSCN Review Article

  Potential areas of research potential relating to FSOC: 

1. Scintillometer measurements of atmospheric turbulence and correlation with FSOC channel fidelity,
2. Adaptive optics solutions for maximising light coupling out of a telescope and into an optical fibre,
3. Developing a pre-distorted wavefront for FSOC uplink based on atmospheric measurements using a guidestar.

Please give an outline (500 words) of your intended topic and areas of interest for doctoral study. When you detail your research interest, please ensure you succinctly record:

—- The area of research which particularly interests you.

—- Why you have chosen this area.

—- What you hope to achieve during your studies at the University of Auckland.

—- How your background and skills relate to the broad research goals of the group, preferably by reference to our published or related works

—- Email your statement, CV and academic record (including grades and subjects) to the contacts for this position.