Richard Morgan

Professor Richard Morgan is an academic at the University of Queensland's School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, where he served as Director of the Centre for Hypersonics from 1997 to 2021. His research specializes in hypervelocity aerothermodynamics, scramjet propulsion, and advanced hypersonic testing facilities. He lectures in mechanical and aerospace engineering and maintains an extensive international research program.

His research focuses on:

• Development of hypervelocity impulsive facilities (including the 'X' series expansion tubes)
• Hypersonic aero-thermo-dynamics and radiation physics
• Scramjet propulsion systems for high-speed flight
• Planetary entry phenomena including ablation and radiation coupling
• Superorbital ground testing methodologies

Analysis of recent publications reveals a dominant focus on experimental hypersonics, particularly in expansion tube facility development, radiation measurement techniques, planetary entry simulations, and aerodynamic heating. His work consistently addresses challenges in recreating extreme flight conditions for spacecraft and missile technologies.

Awards and honors include:

• NASA Ames Honour Award (2010) for contributions to Hayabusa asteroid sample return mission observations
• UQ Excellence in Research Higher Degree Supervision Award (2012)

He leads significant research collaborations with DSTG, NASA, ESA, Oxford University, and Ecole Centrale Paris, supported by continuous ARC funding since 1990 including current Discovery grants. His laboratory develops cutting-edge facilities like the X3 expansion tube and T6 Stalker Tunnel for hypersonic testing.