Spacecraft Systems and Orbital Mechanics

The course “Spacecraft Systems and Orbital Mechanics” provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the systems and principles involved in spacecraft design, operation, and orbital mechanics. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical examples, students will gain the skills necessary to design, analyze, and navigate spacecraft in various orbital regimes.

The course begins by exploring the fundamental principles of space exploration, including the historical context and milestones in space missions. Students will gain an understanding of the challenges and considerations specific to spacecraft systems and orbital mechanics.

Building upon this foundation, the course delves into the various systems and subsystems of spacecraft. Students will learn about spacecraft propulsion systems, attitude control systems, power and thermal management systems, communication systems, and on-board instrumentation. They will gain insights into the integration, operation, and constraints associated with each system.

The course covers orbital mechanics, including the motion of spacecraft in space and the principles governing their orbits. Students will learn about Kepler’s laws, orbital elements, orbit determination, and the factors influencing orbital dynamics, such as gravitational forces and perturbations.

Furthermore, the course addresses the design and analysis of spacecraft trajectories and orbital manoeuvres. Students will study concepts such as launch windows, transfer orbits, rendezvous and docking, stationkeeping, and re-entry trajectories. They will gain insights into the calculations, simulations, and optimization techniques used in spacecraft mission planning and navigation.

The course also covers topics related to space mission planning and management, including payload considerations, mission objectives, mission lifecycle, ground support systems, and mission operations. Students will explore the interdisciplinary nature of space missions and the collaboration between engineering, science, and operational teams.

Throughout the course, students will engage in practical exercises and projects to apply their knowledge in spacecraft systems and orbital mechanics. They will utilize simulation tools, such as orbit simulators and mission planning software, to analyze and optimize spacecraft trajectories and mission parameters.

By the end of the course, students will have acquired a comprehensive understanding of spacecraft systems and orbital mechanics. They will have developed the skills to design, analyze, and navigate spacecraft in various orbital regimes. This knowledge will prepare them for careers in space agencies, aerospace companies, research institutions, or related industries, where expertise in spacecraft systems and orbital mechanics is essential for successful mission planning and execution.