PODAS Takes Off with Brilliant Interns in Summer 2024

This summer marked the beginning of the PODAS project, as it welcomed its first-ever interns, Eashvar Srinivasan from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Jaewon Choi Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH). Their work offers novel insights into the dynamics of of satellites and debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) systems.

Jaewon focused on developing advanced compartmental models to simulate the complex interactions between satellites, derelict objects and debris in LEO. His research produced meanfield and diffusion approximations that could provide accurate predictions about the future state of LEO systems, paving the way for better collision avoidance strategies and management of satellite constellations in increasingly congested orbital environments.

Eashvar's research applied a novel approach by treating the LEO environment as a complex, interacting particle system, using network science theory to rigorously analyze key metrics such as the time to collision events. His work lays the foundation for a more precise definition of Kessler syndrome, offering a deeper understanding of how cascading collisions might occur in LEo systems. These insights could lead to more effective strategies for maintaining the longterm stability of orbital environments.

Both interns made exciting contributions, laying the groundwork for future research and establishing the PODAS project as a key player in space debris studies.