Model-Based Near Earth Asteroid Detection and Characterisation

Asteroid detection through civilian bi-static radar methods have been well developed in the Northern Hemisphere at Goldstone USA and Arecibo Porto Rico. So far, this system, has mainly been able to observe near Earth asteroids and resident space objects that are visible in northern skies. Australia is currently developing a similar system to observe southern skies where some 2-7% of asteroids are uniquely detectable from Australia's geographic location.  Since 2015, the Australian Southern Hemisphere Asteroid Program has successfully observed over 30 near Earth Objects, including human made objects and asteroids ranging in diameter from 20m to 5000m at ranges from 0.1-18 lunar distances.

When a rotating asteroid (or resident space object) is illuminated by radio waves in space, it returns an echo frequency that is broadened by its rotation, this is called Doppler broadening. But asteroids are not perfectly circular, some are elongated, most have odd shapes. These shapes are likely to imprint a Doppler broadening signature.  Additionally, information about the asteroid's surface composition and structure can be traced in the reflected radio frequency signal.

This research aims to investigate and develop the use of model based approaches to detect and characterise near Earth asteroids using simulation studies, experiments in anechoic chambers and by investigating historical and new data captured using the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex and the Australian Compact Telescope Array. A further aim of this research is to further recent advances made in the application of polarisation analysis to further characterise and understand the composition of asteroids.

The candidate will receive guidance and support from UNSW Canberra supervisors and will receive external support from CSIRO and UTAS.

The ideal candidate shows a strong background in signal processing, with knowledge about radar, modelling, and radio frequency communications. 

Eligibility

• International or domestic applicant
• PhD applicant preferred but Master by Research applicants will be considered
• Background in electrical engineering with knowledge about signal processing and radar

How to Apply

Please send your expression of interest (EOI) and CV to Dr Edwin Peters at edwin.peters@unsw.edu.au