Rachel Oliver

Rachel Oliver is an Assistant Professor at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. She is affiliated with the Graduate School of Engineering and Management and the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics. As a Major in the U.S. Air Force, she contributes to national space capabilities through education and research in Space Domain Awareness and spaceflight dynamics and controls.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Aeronautical Engineering, Cornell University, 2024
• M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering, Cornell University, 2022
• M.S. in Astronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2017
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, United States Military Academy, 2015

Rachel Oliver's research focuses on advancing space surveillance through novel sensing technologies, particularly event-based vision sensors for space domain awareness. Her work spans thermal systems for spacecraft, satellite tracking, cislunar situational awareness, and infrared imaging. She applies computational modeling, sensor simulation, and heuristic algorithms to solve complex problems in space operations and spacecraft engineering.

Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in leveraging neuromorphic and event-based vision sensors for space applications, including sensor modeling, noise analysis, tracking, and simulation frameworks. These works are consistently presented at the Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference and other high-impact venues, demonstrating sustained contributions to space surveillance and sensor technology development.

Scientific Awards:

• No scientific awards explicitly listed in the provided text.

Rachel Oliver advises graduate students and collaborates on research projects in satellite tracking and thermal systems. She leads research initiatives at AFIT and has been involved in significant projects such as infrared imaging of spacecraft and oscillating heat pipe technologies. She currently serves as deputy director for the Center of Space Research and Assurance, supporting institution-wide space research efforts. While specific grant details are not provided, her research scope suggests involvement in Department of Defense and Air Force Research Laboratory-sponsored programs.

Rachel Oliver is actively involved in the Center of Space Research and Assurance at AFIT, where she contributes to strategic space research and assurance initiatives. Her work integrates academic research with military space operations, fostering innovation in space domain awareness and next-generation astronautical engineering education.