DCU Home | Our Courses | Loop | Registry | Library | Search DCU

Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2005 - 2006

Module Title Space Science and Technology / PBL
Module Code PS213
School School of Physical Sciences

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorProf. Enda McGlynnOffice NumberN106
Module Co-ordinatorProf. Enda McGlynnOffice NumberN106
Level 2 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Module Aims
Module Aims: To introduce students to the space industry and bring them up to date on the recent developements in space and space technology To demonstrate how space technology applies to everyday life (eg satellite tv, mobile communication, gps systems etc..) To introduce the basic principles of space science & technology such as:Orbits, data transfer, communications, rocket propulsion, human space flight, history of space technology, stage separations, launch systems, organizations- NASA, ESA, NASDA. To utilise a problem-based learning approach to study various aspects of the work in more detail.

Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes: 7a fundamental understanding of the basic concepts of space technology 7an ability to express in words and mathematical terms the fundamentals of orbits and satellite motion 7a detailed understanding of the physics involved in rocket propulsion 7to gain an interest in the space industry itself and an awareness of the opportunities in such. 7to gain an appreciation of the cutting edge of the space science industry

Indicative Time Allowances
Hours
Lectures
Tutorials
Laboratories
Seminars
Independent Learning Time 75

Total 75
Placements
Assignments
NOTE
Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus
Indicative Syllabus: Various aspects of space science and technology will be covered during a series of lectures. Topics which will be covered include: Orbits Data transfer Communications Rocket propulsion Human space flight History of space technology Stage separations Launch systems The problem-based learning aspect of the module will concentrate on deepening of students’ understanding of these issues by small group (2-3 students) work on certain problems e.g. ·Design of heat shields for re-entry for space shuttle ·Design of thrusters to manoeuvre vehicles in space, from one stable orbit to another ·Design of solar panels for space craft etc.
Assessment
Continuous Assessment30% Examination Weight70%
Indicative Reading List
Programme or List of Programmes
BSSAStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAOStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAOStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
HMSAStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAOStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
PHABSc in Physics with Astronomy
SHSAStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAOStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
Archives: