Graduate Student
STAR Lab: satellite laser communications
Abigail Lee is a master’s student in Space Telecommunications, Astronomy and Radiation Laboratory (STAR Lab) whose research focuses on developing a laser communications payload that will fly on a 3U CubeSat. She is passionate about using satellites to study the Earth and expand global access to information. Originally from Canada, she earned her bachelor’s in engineering from Queen’s University, where she built a strong foundation in mechanical engineering. Her experience in research is broad and includes algorithm optimization for star trackers as well as simulation reconstruction for computational fluid dynamics as it pertains to detonations. Abigail also passionately served as president of the university’s rocketry team.
She enjoys tackling the challenge of communicating highly technical research to a wide range of audiences and providing resources to help new members of the community find their footing. Her strengths lie in helping with delivering a strong research presentation and assisting with the writing process. When she’s not in the lab, she’s likely logging miles for her next Ironman, flying a Cessna, or winding down with a good book. She also co-leads her department’s graduate association and finds deep fulfillment in building inclusive communities that empower others.