Learning outcomes
The module imparts specialist expertise in the field of exploration of our planetary system. After completing this course, you will have extensive knowledge of planets and small celestial bodies (moons and asteroids) as well as technical and methodological expertise in the field of space exploration. Another
focus is the development and use of local resources (In-Situ Resource Utilization, ISRU). The knowledge imparted in the module gives you an overview of existing resources and technologies for their use. This will enable you to build up a well-founded knowledge base in this area, which will be very important for space travel in the medium future. You will also receive information about the history of space exploration and current and future missions and concepts.
Different programs and mission concepts are discussed so that you are able to classify and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of different technologies.
Teaching content
The content of the module covers the following topics:
- Historical review of space exploration
- Structure and development of the solar system: planets, moons, small celestial bodies
- Robots and rovers for in-situ exploration of planets, moons and asteroids
- Space travel with humans: space transport systems, space stations, flights to the moon
- Moon: creation, structure, raw materials and ISRU technologies
- Mars: formation, structure, raw materials as well as ISRU technologies and concepts
- Asteroids: Types of asteroids and their composition, importance as sources of raw materials
- Space propulsion: types of propulsion and their potential for exploration, possibilities for using locally obtained fuels
- Mission concepts: Presentation of different mission concepts with a focus on exploration of Mars and comparison of their advantages and disadvantages
Disadvantages
- Stations on the Moon and Mars
- Looking ahead to the future of space exploration
