Our Team

Project Lead

I lead the project and ensure we’re on track to accomplishing our goals.  Furthermore, I liaise with the University of Sheffield to keep them updated on our progress and to acquire support and funds.

Aerostructure


The structural design team is responsible for designing and optimizing the glider's structural and aerodynamic components. 


This team is sectioned into other sub-teams:

The structural design team is responsible for developing the glider's framework, which includes the wings, fuselage, and other structural components. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to model and simulate different design options and to research and select materials to ensure the glider is lightweight and strong enough to withstand the stresses of high-altitude flight. The team also works closely with the avionics team to integrate electrical circuits and other components into the structure of the glider. 


The analysis team works closely with the structural design team to optimize the glider's shape and profile for optimal performance. They use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to analyze the airflow around the glider and make adjustments to improve lift, reduce drag, and increase efficiency. They also use Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to see how stresses influence the glider at high altitudes, influencing the optimization of the glider design through each iteration. The team also focuses on ensuring the glider is stable and maneuverable.


The manufacturing team is responsible for taking the designs created by the structural and aerodynamic design team. The team works closely with the design team to ensure that the final product meets the required specifications and is both lightweight and strong enough to withstand the stresses of high-altitude flight.

The manufacturing team's responsibilities include selecting the appropriate materials for each component of the glider, creating detailed production plans, and supervising the assembly process. They also work to ensure that the manufacturing process is efficient and cost-effective while maintaining high levels of quality control.


The recovery team for the SunStratos project is responsible for developing and implementing a plan to recover the glider after it has been launched from the SunrIde rocket at high altitude. This team plays an important role in ensuring the safe return of the glider and the valuable data it has collected.

The recovery team must consider a variety of factors, including the location and trajectory of the glider, weather conditions, and the terrain of the recovery area. They develop a recovery plan that  ensures a safe landing.

Avionics


The avionics team is responsible for designing, building, and integrating all of the electronic systems used in the glider. 


The avionics team is responsible for designing, building, and integrating all of the electronic systems used in the glider. These systems include sensors for collecting data on the atmosphere and surface of the Earth, as well as communication and control systems to allow the glider to be controlled remotely and to transmit data back to the ground. They work closely with the other teams to ensure that the glider is designed and built in a way that allows for optimal performance and data collection.

Operations


The Outreach team for the SunStratos project is responsible for managing a wide range of activities that support the overall success of the project. This team is made up of individuals who specialize in marketing, finance, outreach, social media, and event organization.


This team is responsible for achieving the following tasks:

The team is responsible for building relationships with key stakeholders and engaging with the public to generate support for the project. This includes reaching out to schools, universities, and other organizations to raise awareness of the project and its goals.


The team is responsible for managing the project's social media accounts, creating engaging content, and responding to comments and questions from followers. They work closely with the web development team to ensure that the project's social media presence is aligned with the website and other promotional materials.


The team is responsible for planning and executing events related to the SunStratos project, such as launch events and fundraising events. They work closely with the other teams to ensure that these events are well-organized and successful.