Engineering consultancy and spacecraft research.
From complex systems today to manufacturing in orbit tomorrow.
Independent support for complex systems, informed by 25 years across aerospace, defence, manufacturing, photonics and safety-critical engineering.
Experience spans hands-on maintenance and diagnostics, mechanical design, systems assurance and technical leadership. Richard is accustomed to working in regulated, security-conscious environments where discretion, traceability and clear documentation matter.
Concept of Operations (CONOPs) development, requirements definition and traceability, system architecture, integration, and verification and validation. Support across the engineering lifecycle, from early concepts to evidence of compliance.
Model-based systems engineering, enterprise architecture and satellite simulation. Experience developing modelling capability, reviewing technical approaches and applying models to requirements and assurance activities.
Concept development, detailed CAD, first-principles calculations and analysis supported by finite element methods. Design substantiation, optioneering and through-life support for mechanical equipment and infrastructure.
Codes and Standards analysis, support-solution assessment, requirements evidence, configuration management and controlled engineering change. Experience with safety processes, asset condition and integrated product and logistics support.
Document Quality Reviews, service design packs, as-built specifications, product roadmaps, work instructions and user guidance. Technical reports that make design decisions, responsibilities and engineering evidence clear.
MATLAB modelling, experimental apparatus, laboratory testing and analysis of findings. Experience connecting concept studies with practical builds, research planning and funding-bid preparation.
Previous responsibilities include leading a modelling and simulation function, acting as a mechanical design technical authority, supporting engineering assurance and leading technical authoring work.
Alongside technical delivery, Richard has experience coordinating suppliers, planning engineering work, engaging stakeholders, improving processes and mentoring engineers. His earlier manufacturing, avionics and maintenance roles provide a practical understanding of how designs are built, serviced and supported.
Software experience includes MATLAB, MathCAD, Python, Ansys STK, Enterprise Architect, ArchiMate, DOORS and Autodesk Inventor.
Discuss your engineering requirementsOn-orbit manufacturing opens up a different way to think about space infrastructure. Our research explores the processes, systems and questions that stand between the concept and its realisation.
Explore On-Orbit Manufacturing Research & Literature ↗How could terrestrial manufacturing techniques be adapted for space? What would it take to inspect and validate the structures produced?
Exploring material flows, recycling, debris repurposing and the potential role of resources beyond Earth.
Investigating structural design, autonomous robotics and mission concepts for orbital manufacturing facilities.
Inside OOMSAT: connecting manufacturing processes, logistics and spacecraft requirements in a modular research tool.
Explore the research ↗Dr Mike McCulloch’s proposed theory, Richard’s experimental contribution and a collection of research papers and perspectives.
Explore Quantized InertiaSharing spacecraft engineering and research beyond the laboratory.
Explore past appearances, educational activities and media highlights from Arundal Astronautics.
Discuss a Talk, Outreach Activity or Event ↗
· Recorded Lecture
A lecture for Tiverton and Devon Astronomical Society with Dr Richard Arundal and Dr Mike McCulloch, exploring orbital manufacturing concepts and McCulloch’s proposed theory of Quantized Inertia.
Watch the Lecture on YouTube ↗· Online Lecture
Dr Richard Arundal’s online talk for Cornwall Astronomical Society, recorded and available to watch on the Arundal Astronautics YouTube channel.
Watch the Lecture on YouTube ↗Arundal Astronautics at Torbay TechBay, with a display of spacecraft engineering and research.
A space outreach event at Nexus School in Camborne, Cornwall.
· Education
An educational item on calculating how long a satellite spends in shadow during its orbit, featured in the company gallery.
Explore the Educational YouTube Channel ↗Summer 2016 · Media
The “Devon Spacecraft Start Up” feature in the summer 2016 edition of Devon Business & Professional Life.
Dr Richard Arundal
Engineering · Consultancy · Research
Dr Richard Arundal is an experienced engineer, researcher and technical consultant with over 25 years of experience across aerospace, defence, photonics, manufacturing and nuclear engineering. His professional background combines technical leadership, systems engineering, research and practical development, with a particular interest in understanding and solving complex engineering challenges.
His academic qualifications include a PhD from the University of Plymouth, an MSc in Astronautics & Space Engineering, a BSc (Hons) in Technology: Design & Innovation and a postgraduate certificate in Technology Management. Through Arundal Astronautics, he brings together engineering consultancy, spacecraft research and education, applying a multidisciplinary approach to established and emerging technologies.
Richard's doctoral research at the University of Plymouth explored the design and development of manufacturing missions for the orbital environment. His doctoral thesis introduced the On Orbit Manufacturing System Architecture Tool (OOMSAT), a systems-oriented approach connecting manufacturing processes, technical requirements and early-stage space mission planning.
His research combined MATLAB software development, parametric analysis and practical experimentation. Working alongside Dr Mike McCulloch at the University of Plymouth, Richard contributed to experimental apparatus development, capacitor fabrication and physical testing.
This combination of analytical modelling, systems thinking and hands-on engineering continues to inform his approach to consultancy, research and technical problem-solving.
Outside his professional work, Richard enjoys a diverse range of interests that reflect his enthusiasm for learning, creativity and personal development.
He is an active practitioner of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), studying traditional European swordsmanship and participating in regular training and sparring. He also enjoys strength training and maintaining an active lifestyle.
His creative interests include tabletop roleplaying games, strategic board games, computer gaming and fictional worldbuilding. He has a particular enthusiasm for emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, 3D modelling and interactive simulation, which he explores through independent software and creative development projects.
These pursuits provide an enjoyable balance to his professional responsibilities while offering opportunities to develop new skills, explore unconventional ideas and collaborate with people from different backgrounds.
Richard believes that curiosity, continuous learning and a willingness to explore unfamiliar challenges are fundamental to both professional development and a fulfilling life.
View Richard’s professional profile on LinkedInFor consultancy enquiries, research discussions or education opportunities, get in touch.
enquiries@arundal-astronautics.co.uk ↗Business Telephone: 01752 766249