Details about funded positions - 39th Cycle - Curriculum 6

(6A) Instruments and mechatronics systems for space applications - E66E23000110001 

Funding institution: University of Trento
Doctoral site: University of Trento – Department of Industrial Engineering
Contact: Prof. Daniele Bortoluzzi [daniele.bortoluzzi [at] unitn.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

The PhD student will attend courses, seminars and laboratory activities offered by the Doctoral School in Space Science and Technology - Curriculum 6 (Satellite Platform Engineering and Technology). Research activities will focus on the engineering of mechatronic systems, understood as mechanisms and related actuation/control systems, aimed both at integration into scientific payloads and as part of Ground Support Equipment for ground testing and qualification. Implementation/control technologies for mechatronic systems available to date can be developed for innovative applications and find in satellite platforms an area of application, potentially strategic and with relevant scientific spill overs. The project has multiple aims, including training a high-profile professional figure with solid skills in mechatronics, satellite platform technology, design, development, qualification of mechatronic systems for scientific payloads; increased knowledge on strategic aspects of instruments and actuation and control systems for space applications; dissemination of research results, technology transfer of "lessons learned" from space missions to national business reality; creation of an international network of contacts, researchers and companies related to the specific aspects of space technologies under study.

(6B) Self-antifrosting microstructured surfaces 

Funding institution: Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Doctoral site: Fondazione Bruno Kessler – FBK - Trento
Contact: Dott. Damiano Giubertoni [giuberto [at] fbk.eu] - Prof. Nicola Pugno [nicola.pugno [at] unitn.it]
Funds: Own Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

Water phase changes (evaporation, condensation, freezing) are ubiquitous phenomena of great importance for living beings and in engineering applications. The structure (micro and nano) and chemistry of surfaces control the kinetics and dynamics of these transitions. Plants, for example, offer numerous examples of self-cleaning, antifreeze and water-collecting1 properties developed over millions of years of evolution. Engineered anti-frosting surfaces find applications in aerospace (ice accretion on aircrafts), heat exchangers (refrigerators), wind turbines and power lines. Structured surfaces that increase evaporation and condensation efficiency are a challenge for Loop Heat Pipes (LHP) and Vapour Chambers that cool electronics on space stations (in microgravity conditions) or in the electronic devices we use on a daily basis. Surfaces that can efficiently collect dew and fog provide a source of water in arid environments and can improve the water recovery system of space stations.
This project will extend the studies carried out during the previous PhD scholarship (within cycle 34, in collaboration with FBK) which focused on anti-frosting and water-harvesting surfaces. The research activity will concern the theoretical study, fabrication, characterisation and experimentation of micro- and nanostructured surfaces with applications in aerospace and energy efficiency. In particular, phenomena of spontaneous jumps of condensation droplets on hydrophobic surfaces, distant coalescence on hydrophilic surfaces and freezing of droplets will be studied. Fabrication techniques may range from micro- and nanolithography, focused IO beam, etching, chemical deposition processes, and polymer moulding. The expected outputs are patents and publications on high impact journals in the field.
References
(1)     Kundanati, L.; Di Novo, N. G.; Greco, G.; Siboni, S.; Della Volpe, C.; Bagolini, A.; Pugno, N. M. Multifunctional Roles of Hairs and Spines in Old Man of the Andes Cactus: Droplet Distant Coalescence and Mechanical Strength. Phys. Fluids 2022, 34 (1). https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0066153.

(6C) Model-based system-software engineering and formal methods for space systems

Funding institution: Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Doctoral site: Fondazione Bruno Kessler – FBK - Trento    
Contact: Dott. Marco Bozzano [bozzano [at] fbk.eu]
Funds: Own Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

Space systems have reached an unprecedented degree of complexity. The design process has to guarantee not only the functional correctness of the implemented system, but also its dependability and resilience with respect to run-time faults. Hence, the design process must characterize the likelihood of faults, mitigate possible failures, and assess the effectiveness of the adopted mitigation measures.  
Formal methods have been increasingly used over the last decades to deal with the shortcomings of designing complex systems, in different domains. Formal methods are based on the adoption of a formal, mathematical model of the system, shared between all actors involved in the system design, and on a tool-supported methodology to aid all the steps of the design, from the definition of the architecture down to the final implementation in HW and SW. 
The objective of this study is to advance the state-of-the-art in space system design using formal methods. In particular, it will investigate new techniques for model-based system and software engineering, to support the design, mission preparation and operations of space systems. The potential research directions include fault detection, isolation, and recovery for satellites; system level diagnosis and diagnosability based on telemetry; digital twins for satellites. Topics to be investigated include techniques for contract-based design and contract-based safety assessment, advanced verification techniques based on compositional reasoning, the analysis of the timing aspects of fault propagation, the characterization of transient and sporadic faults, the analysis of the effectiveness of fault mitigation measures in presence of complex fault patterns, and the modeling and analysis of systems with continuous and hybrid dynamics. 
The developed techniques will be implemented and evaluated using tools for system-software engineering such as the COMPASS tool and the COMPASTA tool, based on the TASTE tool chain.

(6D) Technology challenges for “new-space” and “near-space” missions - E66E23000110001

Funding institution: University of Pisa
Doctoral site: University of Pisa, Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering 
Contact: Prof. Salvo Marcuccio [salvo.marcuccio [at] unipi.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

The research project will contribute to the latest challenges of new ‘near-Earth’ and ‘near-space’ missions for the protection and sustainable development of the planet. The lines of development of the 'new space economy' will be used as a framework for the detailed definition of research topics.
Contributions will address one or more of the following areas:
-    Methods for the analysis and design of near-space missions;
-    Innovative and "green" primary and on-board propulsion systems;
-    Advanced power generation and thermal control systems;
-    Systems for innovative and/or distributed platforms and for micro- and nanosatellites;
-    Artificial intelligence-based methods to support ‘near-Earth’ and ‘near-space’ missions;
-    Sustainability of space activities.
The use of numerical tools and models and/or experimental studies is expected. The possible synergistic use of theoretical, numerical and experimental tools is considered as an added value of the training project.
The project will make use of high quality scientific, computational and laboratory facilities and will be include a period of study and research abroad.

(6E) Advanced models for the design and characterization of deployable antennas - E66E23000110001

Funding institution: Politecnico di Torino
Doctoral site: Politecnico di Torino
Contact: Prof. Carrera Erasmo [erasmo.carrera [at] polito.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

The design and characterization of large deployable structures, such as antennas, star shields or solar sails, pose significant challenges that require advanced modeling techniques. This research focuses on developing advanced models to enhance the design and characterization process of those structures.
One aspect of this research involves utilizing high order finite element modeling. These advanced numerical models will enable accurate prediction of the mechanical behavior, structural integrity, and overall performance of deployable antenna systems for example. By incorporating multi-scale mechanics, the interactions between various structural components at different length scales will be comprehensively understood and analyzed.
Furthermore, the research will explore the use of advanced materials, such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites or soft hyperelastic materials, to optimize the performance, weight, and reliability of deployable antennas. The design considerations and manufacturing techniques specific to these materials will be studied and incorporated into the modeling process. Particular attention will be focused on the mechanics and multi-field analysis of multi-functional membranes, TRAC booms, collapsible longeron etc.
In addition to finite element simulations, multi-body analyses will be employed to investigate the dynamic behavior and deployment mechanisms of the antennas. These simulations will analyze the complex interactions between the deployable antenna structure, deployment mechanisms, and external forces, leading to improved designs and enhanced operational efficiency.
To validate and refine the developed models, experimental testing will be conducted. This hands-on approach involves constructing scaled prototypes, performing structural tests, and measuring critical performance parameters. The experimental results will be correlated with the numerical models to ensure accuracy and reliability.
This PhD position offers a stimulating research environment, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration opportunities with leading experts in the field of aerospace engineering. Prospective candidates with a strong background in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline are encouraged to apply. Proficiency in numerical modeling, finite element analysis, and programming languages will be advantageous.

(6F) Optical fiber sensor systems for spacecraft propulsion monitoring - E66E23000110001

Funding institution: Sant’Anna School of Advanced studies - Pisa
Doctoral site: Sant’Anna School of Advances studies - Pisa
Contact: Fabrizio di Pasquale [fabrizio.dipasquale [at] santannapisa.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

Modern spacecraft systems and launch vehicles design have become more oriented towards reducing system-level assembly and system design complexities. In order to maintain high overall system performance while reducing these complexities, the use of smart materials and smart structural components is attracting a great deal of attention. Spacecraft systems monitoring is playing a crucial role for early fault detection and troubleshooting of subsystems and components. Many subsystems on a satellite would require real-time monitoring and reliable acquisition of operational data; thermal management system, antennas, the power generation and storage subsystem, the propulsion systems (liquid, electric, solid and hybrid) as well as the robotic arms. The proposed research will first concentrate on new concepts of smart space structures based on carbon fiber composites embedded with optical fiber sensors. Different photonic sensing technologies will be applied to satellite subsystems identifying the best monitoring solution, also considering AI-driven data extraction.

(6G) Vacuum microwave active devices for observation and detection of object in the space

Funding institution: University of Palermo
Doctoral site: University of Palermo
Contact: Prof. Alessandro Busacca [alessandro.busacca [at] unipa.it]
Funds: Own Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

The use of amplification devices on satellites requires the use of established technologies. The possibility of using vacuum technology, certainly considered a reliable technology for space, allows the creation of TWT details characterized by a considerable bandwidth, low working voltages and significantly reduced dimensions. The study of interaction structures between electron beams and electromagnetic fields is of particular importance. The study will not be limited not only to the interaction structures, but also to the boundary elements: electronic cannon and collector. The study will involve the use of specific software that allows to evaluate the interaction between electron beams and electromagnetic fields, as well as analytical software able to give the first information on the performance of the devices. One of the software that you intend to use is CST studio, it allows you to perform particle simulations in cell PIC).
The candidate must have acquired knowledge on the use of CST Studio Suite and toolbox software and more generally must have knowledge in the field of vacuum tubes and in general excellent knowledge of microwave devices.

(6H) Active and reconfigurable antenna array system development for SATCOM applications - E66E23000110001

Funding institution: University of Trieste
Doctoral site: University of Trieste and PICOSATS Srl 
Contact: Prof. Giulia Buttazzoni [gbuttazzoni [at] units.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

Currently, the coverage provided by terrestrial networks reaches only 10% of the world. The broad coverage, cost-effective deployment, and reliability make satellite communications a good candidate for 5G applications. 
The proposal concerns the study, prototyping and characterization of a reconfigurable active antenna array, based on commercial chips for SATCOM applications in K-Ka band. The main objective is to improve existing systems in terms of data rate, construction costs, size and weight. The architecture is required to integrate several antenna functionalities fundamental for small satellite communications, such as the ability to direct and control the transmission beam and the ability to vary the polarization. 
The reconfigurability will be ensured by commercial beam-forming chips. This reduces the need to use mechanical pointing systems that are generally bulky and heavy, if the attitude of the entire satellite is not changed. 
The feasibility study will be based mainly on a use case that involves the connection between satellites in MEO orbit, with data-relay functionality, and satellites in LEO orbit, equipped with the antenna under analysis.

(6I) Green technologies for a clean and sustainable orbital environment around Earth - E66E23000110001

Funding institution: University of Padua
Doctoral site: University of Padua    
Contact: Prof. Enrico Lorenzini [enrico.lorenzini [at] unipd.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

The growing number of space debris is impairing the long-term sustainability of the Earth’s orbital environment and both mitigation and remediation strategies are required, including autonomous orbital servicing and the inspection and capture of defunct satellites to remove them from orbit. The aforementioned manoeuvres require the appropriate use of artificial intelligence and neural networks together with sensors and algorithms for relative proximity navigation and propellant-less (green) in-orbit propulsion systems (e.g., using Lorentz’s forces) for deorbiting. The Ph.D. research proposed has the overarching goal of developing and validating these technologies through both specific numeric simulations and in specific cases laboratory tests employing a representative facility available at the University of Padova.

(6J) Navigation techniques for space applications - E66E23000200008

Funding institution: Qascom s.r.l.
Doctoral site: Qascom s.r.l. – Bassano del Grappa & University of Trento    
Contact: Prof. Lorenzo Bruzzone [lorenzo.bruzzone [at] unitn.it] & Prof. Roberto Battiston [roberto.battiston [at] unitn.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C2 Inv. 3.3, Innovative PhDs
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: compulsory, minimum 6 months

This scholarship program focuses on the study of innovative navigation techniques for space applications and the implementation of technological demonstrators to evaluate their performance and benefits. The selected candidate will embark on a three-year journey, acquiring knowledge in navigation techniques for various space scenarios, ranging from orbiting satellites to lunar exploration missions. This will involve conducting a thorough review of the current state of the field and engaging with experts from both academia and industry.
The scholarship recipient will be tasked with proposing ground-breaking techniques tailored to the rapidly growing and evolving space exploration landscape. They will consider aspects such as the new space economy, the development of satellite constellations in Earth's orbit (including mega-constellations for satellite communication and LEO-PNT constellations), and communication and navigation systems for lunar exploration missions. One key aspect to explore will be the integration of RF signal-based techniques from dedicated navigation constellations (similar to GNSS) and image processing techniques.
Moreover, the candidate will develop software and create technological demonstrators to assess and quantify the advantages and performance of the proposed techniques. The results of their research will be shared through scientific publications and presentations, ensuring that the knowledge gained reaches a wider audience.
In addition to the academic setting, the scholarship recipient will have the opportunity to conduct research both at Qascom and at a foreign institution. This international exposure will further enrich their experience and foster collaboration with experts from different backgrounds.
Overall, this scholarship provides an exciting platform for the selected candidate to contribute to the advancement of space navigation knowledge. By leveraging innovative technologies and collaborating with industry and academic professionals, they will play a vital role in shaping the future of space exploration.

(6K) Geometric Deep Learning for rapid prototyping of stealth drones - E66E23000200008

Funding institution: Nurjana Technologies s.r.l.
Doctoral site: Nurjana Technologies s.r.l. & University of Cagliari
Contact: Prof. Giuseppe Mazzarella [mazzarella [at] unica.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C2 Inv. 3.3, Innovative PhDs
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: compulsory, minimum 6 months

The multi-physics design of space and aerospace vehicles requires complex computationally and time-consuming multi-disciplinary analyses (including FEA and CFD numerical simulations) fed by inputs obtained from various sources. To optimize the design, even more complex algorithms are used, which do not allow to account for the real 3D geometries.
The use of AI and its capability of learning from data coming from different sources allows to effectively predict outputs in a fast manner, however the geometry is still not accounted for.
The recent advancements in Geometric Deep Learning (GDL) have opened a new perspective on how to approach the problem. GDL is a particular branch of AI in which graph theory is used to extend the applicability of neural networks to non-Euclidean data.

(6L) Radiation hard photonic integrated circuits for space applications

Funding institution: National Institute for Nuclear Physics - INFN
Doctoral site: Sant’Anna School of Advanced studies - Pisa
Contact: Prof. Claudio Oton Nieto [claudio.oton [at] santannapisa.it]
Funds: Own Funds [NRRP Project NQTSI, CUP I53C22001460006]
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional

Silicon photonics (SiPh) can provide the enabling technology for high-radiation environment telecom and sensing applications such as in space and particle accelerators like the LHC at CERN. SiPh is becoming a disruptive technology for reducing the size, weight, cost and power consumption of optical fiber transmission networks and optical fiber sensor systems.  SiPh promises low-cost and high-volume production, complimentary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) compatibility and potential for monolithic integration with electronics. The most widely developed platform utilizes Si-on-insulator (SOI) nanowire waveguides and has been extended to include integrated active components such as modulators and photodetectors. 
The proposed research will focus on design and characterization of radiation hard silicon photonic building blocks for communication and sensing applications. The performance of systems on chip, such as sensor reading units and transceivers, will be investigated under high radiation condition.