Learning outcomes The
module teaches the basics of space propulsion and provides a systematic overview of rocket propulsion and propulsion for spacecraft in space. The students should understand and be able to apply the theoretical basics of space propulsion. In addition, a systematic overview of the various drive concepts and the associated basic technical principles and system solutions should be learned.
After successfully completing this course, students will be able to: - differentiate between
different types of propulsion and systems, including the basic advantages and disadvantages - name and explain the basic principles and main elements of a rocket engine - recognize different thrust vector systems with their
advantages and disadvantages - to know and be able to distinguish between the basics of
combustion chambers and their cooling systems, igniters, fuel tanks and fuel delivery systems including different types of injectors - to be able to classify and name the losses of a rocket engine - to calculate basic
parameters of a rocket engine (e.g. launch and fuel masses , thrust, specific
impulse, temperatures and pressures) - to be able to classify different fuels
- to be able to recognize and evaluate different combustion cycles - to be able to distinguish and evaluate different types of nozzles
- to know and be able to calculate the physical-thermodynamic processes of a nozzle - to fundamentally understand air-breathing hypersonic drives
- be able to classify and fundamentally calculate solid propulsion systems - be able to classify and calculate electrical propulsion systems - have a deeper understanding of liquid in-space propulsion systems - have basic
knowledge of test stands and peripherals for rocket propulsion systems
- Have knowledge of various future or unrealized propulsion systems
Teaching content
The content of the lecture and the exercises relate to the following topics: - Overview of all drive types (chemical, electrical,…)
- More detailed consideration of the different chemical drives (solid, hybrid, liquid, single-substance, dual-substance)
- Presentation of various engines -
Theoretical principles and formulas for calculating rocket engines, - Classification of fuels - Fuel tanks and fuel delivery -
Combustion chamber and combustion
chamber cooling - Injectors - Nozzles: calculations and
construction - Thrust vector control
- Solid fuel drives
- Hybrid drives
- Fuel block shapes
- In-space propulsion
- Test stands and safety
- Electric drives for spacecraft
- Air-breathing hypersonic engines
- Other drives
