PhD project in Investigating the ablation of hypersonic re-entry object and its global climate effect
PhD @University of Southampton posted 19 hours agoJob Description
About the project
This project investigates the environmental impact of spacecraft re-entry, focusing on material ablation and its effects on ozone chemistry and Earth’s radiative balance. Using high-fidelity computational models, molecular dynamics, and atmospheric simulations, this research will enhance sustainability in space activities by assessing the long-term consequences of satellite disposal practices.
The rapid expansion of space activities, particularly the growing number of satellite deployments, raises concerns about environmental sustainability. Thousands of satellites re-enter Earth’s atmosphere annually as part of post-mission disposal, leading to the ablation of spacecraft materials such as aluminium, which can release potentially harmful substances. These materials, when incinerated during re-entry, may impact ozone chemistry and Earth’s radiative balance, posing long-term environmental risks.
This project, therefore, aims to bridge the critical knowledge gap in understanding the atmospheric effects of spacecraft re-entry. It will develop a high-fidelity computational model to simulate spacecraft surface ablation and examine how released materials interact with atmospheric chemistry, particularly their influence on ozone depletion and climate change.
The research will employ advanced thermo-chemical nonequilibrium flow models and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to enhance our understanding of ablation processes. The Community Atmosphere Model (CAM) will be used to assess the broader environmental and climate impacts, focusing on ozone interactions and Earth’s radiative balance.
By providing crucial insights into the environmental consequences of space activities, this project will play a key role in supporting the sustainability of future space operations.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and Horizon Europe students.
Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.
To learn about funding opportunities visit our Doctoral College scholarships and bursaries information.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- choose the relevant PhD in Engineering
- add name of the supervisor in section 2
Applications should include:
- a personal statement
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts to date
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk).
Project leader
For an initial conversation, email Dr Minkwan Kim (M.K.Kim@soton.ac.uk).
