Peter Roberts

Dr. Peter Roberts is a Reader in Spacecraft Engineering at The University of Manchester's Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department. His work focuses on orbital aerodynamics, spacecraft systems, and sustainable space technologies. He leads projects like the EU-funded DISCOVERER initiative, advancing Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) missions. Key achievements include the Icarus drag sail on TechDemoSat and the SOAR mission demonstrating drag-reducing materials. Roberts has secured grants from ESA, UKSA, and DARPA, coordinating large consortia.

His research addresses space debris mitigation, aerodynamic materials, and atmospheric interactions. He advises on sustainable space practices, contributing to UN SDGs related to environmental protection. Notable awards include the 2022 Engineer's C2I Aerospace Award for DISCOVERER. Roberts collaborates internationally, including with Stuttgart University, and mentors over 15 postgraduate researchers. His labs and teams focus on experimental gas physics, spacecraft design, and VLEO mission systems.