Space

We are living in a new space age, in which science, engineering and business are redefining what we mean by space technology, space research and space applications for people on Earth. At Chalmers we are developing new ways of working with space, building on long experience of space-related research and technology.

Space research areas at Chalmers

Space science, exploration and astrophysics

Human curiosity drives us to understand and explore space and our place in it.

We conduct research on the solar system, distant stars and their planets, galaxies, and the cosmos as a whole. We are actively involved in the development and use of ground- and space-based infrastructures. We are involved in technology development from radio up to THz frequencies for space activity and host Onsala Space Observatory, a national infrastructure which combines research in and technological developments for geodynamics and radio astronomy.

Image credit: Chalmers/Anna-Lena Lundqvist

Remote sensing, Earth systems and climate

Understanding our planet is key to ensuring a sustainable future.

We have a leading role in national and international satellite missions for remote sensing and space geodesy. We derive bio- and geophysical products and contribute to maintaining the terrestrial and celestial reference frames. Using space geodesy, remote sensing, and complementary data, we research the Earth System on a global scale, investigate geodynamic phenomena, and climate change processes and support meteorological, hydrological and environmental agencies.

Image credit: ESA/DLR

Propulsion, materials, production and access to space

Innovative propulsion technology for rockets and other spacecraft are drivers of the new space economy, while new materials and 3D printing are transforming how we manufacture components for spacecraft.

We investigate advanced propulsion concepts with relevance to future propulsion technologies. Our research in hydrogen-powered engines, combustion and plasma-related flow phenomena, and computational fluid dynamics all provide expertise relevant to aerospace aerodynamics and propulsion. In materials science and manufacturing, we investigate how to engineer materials and their microstructures, enabling reliable, lightweight and durable materials for spacecraft. We study metal additive manufacturing for aerospace applications and space systems, aimed at more productive and sustainable manufacturing – both in orbit and on the ground.

Image credit: Chalmers/CAM2

Sensors for space and space applications

Society on Earth increasingly relies on sensors, antennas and circuitry in space.

Chalmers has a wealth of experience developing and building innovative sensor technology for space and for radio astronomy. We push the boundaries of remote sensing, aiming to improve satellite communication and enable precise, high-speed deep-space communication to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, working towards an integrated non-terrestrial network component into future 6G infrastructures. We provide advanced components and technologies, such as microwave and optical devices, antenna design and space-based computing. Complete satellite sensors are designed and developed together with companies in the region.

Image credit: Chalmers/A. Pavolotsky

Space references, communication and computation

Positioning, timing and navigation are critical for space operations – and for societal infrastructure on Earth.

Positioning networks in space and on Earth are transforming into challenges for computing infrastructure, both on the ground and in orbit. We are involved in many projects in space geodesy, and in space-based projects like Genesis. Research on advanced photonics and optical communications are providing new pathways for space applications that pose exciting challenges in high-performance computing.

Image credit: NASA/Kel Elkins (Science and Technology Corporation)

Space industry transformation and New Space engineering

The expanding space economy is transforming society. Aiming for human-centred and sustainable space ecosystems, we study how innovation, defence and civil interests can shape the future of space activities.

We study innovation systems, technological change and the development of new industries, providing analytical tools for understanding how space technologies move from research into commercial markets and how space-sector ecosystems develop – both civil, dual-use and defence-related. We study how technologies, institutions and social expectations shape one another, informing governance and future development of the expanding space sector.

Image credit: NASA/C. Swanson