This research opportunity seeks to enhance data rates and resiliency in radio frequency (RF) downlinks in existing satellite constellations. Specifically, research focuses on alternative waveforms to downlink all necessary and most of the desired evolved sensor data from a variety of orbits without increasing existing data rates and bandwidths to support existing ground elements. Moreover, it is reasonable to expect that potential technical solutions would integrate existing cognitive radio technologies to enhance current data rates and resiliency of Air Force assets with minimal impacts to their existing infrastructures. If successful, future universal waveforms and modems supported by the findings anticipated herein would be inserted in conjunction with existing satellite operation centers, fixed site access networks, tactical platforms, and users. As for the technical challenges, prospective researchers shall investigate necessary scientific foundations, design principles, and/or add-on modular components, including but not limited to (1) universal waveforms that can encapsulate existing waveforms and further transport them in the presence of contested radio environments; (2) enhanced RF downlink concept of operations in the presence of unintentional and intentional radio interference sources using cognitive radio technologies; (3) resilient carrier frequency, bandwidth, burst duration, and burst repetition interval parameters for RF downlinks with low probability of detection and interception; and (4) achieving unjammed throughput efficiency in contested radio environments.

 

References

C4ISR for Future Naval Strike Groups, “Chapter: 7 Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance”. The National Academies Press: 175-282, 2006

Nguyen TM, McWilliams J, Hammond M: “R-CDL Communication Closes the NT-ISR Information Gap”. Raytheon Tech Today 3: 2007

 

key words

RF downlinks; Universal waveforms; Add-on modules; Modular open system architectures; Carrier Frequency; Bandwidth; Burst duration; Burst repetition; Contested radio environments;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.