Cansat Leader Training Program 1: Matthew Robert Tetlow

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CLTP graduates' leadership in their countries!

Matthew Robert Tetlow

Australia

Present Status:	The University of Adelaide
Present Position:	Research Scientist
Field of specialization:	Guidance, navigation and control
Present Research Interests:	Modelling high speed vehicle dynamics Guidance systems GPS/INS navigation systems Satellite design Systems engineering and flight test
Short Biography:	Matthew Tetlow graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering in 1999. He undertook a PhD in the area of launch vehicle systems, trajectory optimisation and guidance system development in conjunction with the Space Systems Institute in Stuttgart Germany. Since then he has worked on several defence research projects to support the Australian Scramjet program. He has also worked in the commercial aviation arena on an advanced floatplane development program.

Statement of Purpose

I am passionate about space and want to develop skills in the space systems area, particularly electronics. Our research group currently works in two areas relevant to the CanSat program. First, we have built two CubeSats in the past 3 years and are currently investigating launch possibilities. The second is a program where we design and build payloads which are launched on Mach 2 sounding rockets on the Woomera Test range. In both cases we have found that our students lack the knowledge in electronics and system design. My aim is to introduce the CanSat program to students earlier on in their degrees so that they have the tools they need at the beginning of their research projects. This will enable them to develop far more advanced payloads and eventually compete internationally. I also want to network and make contacts with other people interested in space, to try build a network of people to collaborate on future space programs.

Feed Back from CLTP program

The CLTP Program exceeded my expectations by an order of magnitude. From a technical and skill development point of view I came away with far more knowledge that I expected. By the end of the program we were capable of building advanced payloads, which will form a good base to continue my skill development. It also provided me with a significant body of knowledge to pass on to students in Australia to enable them to develop future space technology. I made contact with many space enthusiasts, with whom I hope to collaborate on future space programs. Finally, from a social point of view I very much enjoyed being immersed in Japanese culture and interacting with the friendly Japanese people. I have a deep admiration for the respectful, innovative and friendly community that is the Japanese society.

Vision for the future

I would like to spread a core body of knowledge around Australian universities and schools about CanSat. This will form the springboard for students to go on to develop innovative aerospace technology.
My plan will begin at the University of Adelaide where I will introduce the CanSat concept to the 2nd, 3rd and 4th year students. I will also engage with the South Australian Science teachers to introduce CanSat to school students. Finally, this will be expanded to other states in Australia.