This module aims to provide a basic understanding of the major subsystems of a spacecraft system and the frameworks for understanding spacecraft trajectory and orbits, including interplanetary orbits, launch phase and altitude control. Students will also gain an awareness of ideas on how space is a business/commercial opportunity and some of the management tools required in business.
Total contact hours: 32
Private study hours: 118
Total study hours: 150
This is not available as a wild module.
Test 1 (10hours, 15%)
Test 2 (10hours, 15%)
Examination (70% - 2 hours)
Recommended texts:
Fortescue, Stark and Swinerd, Spacecraft Systems Engineering, Wiley (2003). [TL875, 6 copies]
Roy, Orbital Motion, Adam Hilger, [QB355] (6 copies, 3rd edition)
Other useful texts:
Griffin and French, Space Vehicle Design, AIAA [TL875]
Wertz and Larson, Space Mission Analysis and Design, 2nd ed. Kluwer [TL790]
Chetty, Satellite Technology and its Applications, TAB Books, Inc. [TL796]
Wertz, Spacecraft Attitude Determination and Control, Reidel Publishing Co. [TL3260]
Turner, Rocket and Spacecraft Propulsion, pub. Praxis [TL782]
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of physical laws and principles, and their application to diverse areas of physics focussed on spacecraft design and operations.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of aspects of the theory and practice of astronomy, astrophysics and space science, and of those aspects upon which astronomy, astrophysics and space science depends.
Demonstrate an ability to identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems, and to make approximations necessary to obtain solutions relevant to spacecraft science.
Demonstrate an ability to solve problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools.
Demonstrate an ability to use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour.
Demonstrate an ability to comment critically on how spacecraft are designed, their principles of operation, and their use to access and explore space. Also, on how they are used in astronomy and astrophysics research.
Demonstrate an ability to use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour.
Demonstrate an ability to make use of appropriate texts, research-based materials or other learning resources as part of managing their own learning.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate problem-solving skills, in the context of both problems with well-defined solutions and open-ended problems; an ability to formulate problems in precise terms and to identify key issues, and the confidence to try different approaches in order to make progress on challenging problems. Numeracy is subsumed within this area.
Demonstrate analytical skills – associated with the need to pay attention to detail and to develop an ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas, to construct logical arguments and to use technical language correctly.
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