Space Mission Design and Operations

Offered by EPFLx

Course Description

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the cosmos with our "Space Mission Design and Operations" course, offered by EPFLx. This intermediate-level engineering course delves into the fascinating world of space exploration, covering everything from the fundamental principles of orbital mechanics to the intricacies of spacecraft design and mission planning. Led by Claude Nicollier, one of the first ESA astronauts, you'll gain invaluable insights into space missions, drawing from his extensive experience with the Shuttle project and Hubble Space Telescope maintenance.

What Students Will Learn

  • Fundamental laws of mechanics and orbital mechanics
  • Orbital maneuvers and mission planning techniques
  • Types of space missions and their objectives
  • Understanding of the space environment and its challenges
  • General concepts of space vehicle architecture
  • Spacecraft propulsion systems and their applications
  • Attitude determination and control in space
  • Onboard systems and their functions
  • Risk management and reliability in space missions
  • Key design elements for successful missions, particularly in human spaceflight

Prerequisites

To excel in this course, students should have a strong foundation in physics, vector analysis, and calculus at the bachelor's level. Familiarity with basic engineering concepts will also be beneficial.

Course Coverage

  • Space exploration history and achievements
  • Orbital dynamics and space mechanics concepts
  • Space mission planning and design
  • Space environment characteristics and challenges
  • Spacecraft propulsion and control systems
  • Space vehicle architecture and onboard systems
  • Risk management and reliability in space missions
  • Human spaceflight considerations and design elements
  • Future of space exploration and utilization

Target Audience

This course is ideal for engineering students, space enthusiasts, and professionals looking to expand their knowledge in space mission design and operations. It's particularly suited for those interested in pursuing careers in aerospace engineering, astronautics, or space agency operations.

Real-World Applications

  • Designing and planning space missions for government agencies or private companies
  • Developing spacecraft and space-based technologies
  • Contributing to space exploration initiatives and research projects
  • Analyzing and mitigating risks in space operations
  • Improving spacecraft propulsion and control systems
  • Enhancing the reliability and efficiency of space missions
  • Participating in the growing commercial space industry
  • Advancing space-based scientific research and observations
  • Contributing to the development of space stations and habitats
  • Solving complex engineering challenges in extreme environments

Syllabus

  • Unit 0 - Introduction to the Course
  • Unit 1 - Introduction to Space Environment
  • Unit 2 - Introduction to Orbital Mechanics (I and II)
  • Unit 3 - Orbital Mechanics Part III
  • Unit 4 - Orbital Mechanics Part IV
  • Unit 5 - Introduction to Space Systems and Space Tethers
  • Unit 6 - The Space Shuttle and the International Space Station (ISS)
  • Unit 7 - Special Subjects on Human Spaceflight, and Future of Space Exploration

Each unit covers specific topics related to space exploration, orbital dynamics, spacecraft design, and mission planning. From the basics of space environment to advanced concepts in human spaceflight, this comprehensive course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the exciting field of space mission design and operations.