Advanced Spacecraft Technology

What it is about

You learn how satellites and their subsystems are holistically designed, evaluated, and aligned with mission requirements. In the end, you will be able to understand subsystem requirements and performance metrics, consider propulsion and launch vehicle choices, assess performance trade-offs, and estimate life-cycle costs.

What you will be able to do

• Comprehensive understanding of satellite subsystem designs and performance metrics
• Selection of suitable launch vehicles and understanding their impact on satellite design
• Evaluation of subsystem performance and execution of technical trade-offs
• Estimation of life-cycle costs using Grassroots, analog, and parametric methods
• Effective presentation of technical results to a large audience
• Teamwork to achieve common project goals

What the module consists of

• LectureDelivery of technical knowledge on subsystems, launch selection, trajectory design and costs; includes guest lectures and short video units for introduction and repetition
• Exercise / Design ProjectApplication of lecture knowledge in group projects for the design of a spacecraft; final presentations
• eLearning / voluntary assignmentscontinuous exercises via Moodle for deepening and optional bonus improvement of the final grade

Teaching method

• Multimedia-supported interactive lecturesfor introduction and discussion of key concepts
• Guest lecturesinsights into current trends and industry practice
• Short videos (Knowledge Nuggets)introduction to fundamentals and as a revision aid
• Group project workpractical application of knowledge in the constructive design of a satellite
• Online submissions via Moodleindependent practice and opportunity to improve the final grade through continuous performance