Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2007 - 2008

Module Title	Space Science and Technology
Module Code	PS213
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
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 illustrate in particular the astronomical applications of space science.

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	18
Tutorials	18
Laboratories
Seminars
Independent Learning Time	39

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: ¿Introduction to the space sciences ¿Space as unique laboratory ¿Space travel ¿Earth environment ¿Interplanetary space ¿Gravitation and mechanics. ¿Orbital mechanics: motions of planets and satellites, launch of a space vehicle, orbits and orbit perturbations, orbit maneuvers, launch windows, orbit maintenance, escape velocity, interplanetary travel ¿Mission inception, spacecraft classification ¿Rocket propulsion, on-board systems, communications and Deep Space Network ¿Future mission and associated new technologies ¿Astronomy in space: examples of space missions at various wavelengths