Your learning on this unit
Overview of content
This unit covers a broad range of topics to equip students with a foundation in different aspects of space systems engineering and mission development, which may include: hyperbolic trajectories; perturbations affecting orbits and trajectories; planning a planetary mission using orbit modelling tools; spacecraft communications; engineering for human space flight; technical approaches for launches using different types of rockets; spacecraft entering an atmosphere; instrumentation for scientific and Earth observation missions.
How will students be different as a result of the unit
You will know more about the engineering considerations needed in many aspects of the space industry. You should be able to understand and evaluate the key technical concepts and challenges for different types of space mission (commercial, scientific, crewed, etc). You will be able to design simple interplanetary space missions from modelling the trajectory to proposing suitable payloads. You will know how to construct a presentation based on a self-driven investigation beyond the taught material.
Learning Outcomes
evaluate interplanetary trajectories and apply this knowledge in a practical context;
discuss and evaluate technical issues and underlying design requirements for systems areas including advanced aspects of spacecraft design, and human space flight;
select and design appropriate launchers and propulsion systems;
develop payload and mission design requirements for scientific and Earth observation missions.
