Analysis of a methodology for global effects of launchers on the atmosphere and environment

Problem Definition:
Currently, no methodology for assessing the environmental impacts of the complete life cycle, especially from launch and re-entry, exist. US has been researching the environmental impact of space transportation systems for multiple years now, developing a tool for the comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact of the life cycle of rockets based on LCA. Many individual research questions have arisen, which are to be addressed as part of the project in order to improve methodology.

Research Objectives:
Based on the given developed methodology, closing knowledge gaps with a special focus on an assessment methodology for launch and re-entry (emission calculation, particle emissions, characterization)
Implementation and improvement of the existing tool based on the findings from other DCs (e.g. measurement and simulation data on emission, calculated impact characterization factors)
Development of future scenarios of space launcher market to provide them as common scenarios for the consortium (based on market studies and own research)
Development of launch- and re-entry emission databases for atmospheric simulation for current and future possible scenarios
Further development of characterization factors especially for high-altitude emissions

Expected Results:
A methodology for life cycle assessment of the global impact of space transportation systems complete lifecycle with a focus on high altitude emissions
Future scenarios of space launches and re-entries as a common input for the consortium
Emission databases based on different scenarios for space transportation
Impact assessment of the scenarios.

Secondments:
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland, ca. 3 months): improvement of launcher LCA within ACT
Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrttechnik e.V. (DLR, Weßling, Germany, ca. 4 months): feasibility study to adapt a surrogate model to assess the climate impact of aviation, OpenAirClim, to rocket launch emissions

Benefits:
You will be working within our international group of > 30 researchers with experience in a broad range of sciences.
You will get in contact with the other members of this international consortium.
You will benefit from the well-structured training program offered by the host institution and the SLICE consortium to develop skills and thorough understanding of space transportation systems and their environmental impact.
You will be employed by the host organization for 36 months.
You will participate in international conferences and secondments to other organisations within the SLICE network and in outreach activities targeted at a wide audience.
A competitive salary according to MSCA regulations (see page 118ff, https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2023-2024/wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf ), including a living allowance, a mobility allowance and, if eligible, a family allowance. The stated allowances represent the gross funding amounts. Employer contributions to social security, health insurance, and other statutory costs will be deducted in accordance with the applicable national regulations.


Please find additional information in the Information package for Marie Curie fellows in doctoral networks (https://op.europa.eu/s/z831).