Syllabus
Programs focusing on space can come in many varieties, to include those more focused on launch vehicles, space systems, dynamics, and astronomy. Here we will attempt to provide content to take the reader from very little knowledge of space systems to a detailed understanding of launch vehicles and space systems.
Introductory and/or mandatory classes in most programs of study include systems design and systems engineering, orbital mechanics, propulsion, and the space environment. Mission design, dynamics, modeling and simulation, telecommunication, structures, power, and thermal control round out the basic elements of a space systems program.
Courses in space systems are quite rigorous and require considerable preparation prior to entry of advanced courses. Fundamental understanding of mathematics, statics, aerodynamics, materials, spherical trigonometry, chemistry, and thermodynamics is needed to be adequately prepared. Where required, we will point out introductory material to provide a foundation for study.
Basics
Space Systems Fundamentals
A grasp of the fundamentals is essential prior to embarking on this learning journey. Anyone who does not have a background in space engineering will benefit heavily from first studying the fundamentals broadly. Luckily, good material abounds.
Prerequisites: Algebra, trigonometry, vectors.
Recommended Textbook:
Understanding Space: An Introduction to Astronautics. Sellers, Jerry Jon.
Other Resources:
Kerbal Space Program (intuition for orbital mechanics and delta v)
Space channels on YouTube: Scott Manley, Everyday Astronaut
CRS Videos:
Astronomy
While not directly related to space engineering, a working knowledge of astronomy will benefit you with useful background and contextual information for the study of space systems, and may interest you as well.
Advanced Topics
Moving into specific topics, particular knowledge may be desired or required. Some resources are pointed out where available.
General prerequisites for advanced topics:
Calculus – most topics. Khan Academy
Differential equations – most topics. Khan Academy
Physics – most topics. Khan Academy. Free textbooks at OpenStax, University Physics volumes 1-3.
Chemistry – propulsion.
Spherical geometry – orbital mechanics, attitude control and dynamics.
Thermodynamics – propulsion, re-entry.
Gas dynamics – propulsion, re-entry.
Materials and loads – launch vehicle design, structures.
Aerodynamics – launch vehicle design, re-entry.
Reliability – as needed.
Systems Engineering – as needed.
Communications – as needed.
Topics
Orbital Mechanics
Prerequisites: Differential, integral, and multivariable vector Calculus, linear algebra desired.
Recommended Textbook:
Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students, Howard Curtis.
Other resources:
Orbital mechanics in Python videos by Alfonso Gonzalez on YouTube.
CRS videos:
Rocket Propulsion
Prerequisites: Chemistry, Thermodynamics.
Recommended Textbook:
Rocket Propulsion Elements. Sutton, George and Biblarz, Oscar.
Other resources:
Youtube, Josh the Engineer (CD nozzles)
Advanced Topics:
Gas dynamics, liquid propulsion, solid propulsion, advanced propulsion, future propulsion.
Thermodynamics
Further reading:
Fundamentals of Thermodynamics, 2013
Space Environment
Recommended textbook:
The Space Environment and its Effect on Space Systems. Pisacane, Vincent.
Aerodynamics
Attitude control and dynamics
Navigation
Structures
Hypersonic Gas and Plasma Dynamics
A necessary topic for exploring orbital re-entry.
Recommended textbook:
Hypersonic and High-temperature Gas Dynamics. Anderson, John D.
Launch Vehicle Design
Recommended Textbook:
Design of Rockets and Space Launch Vehicles. Edberg, Don and Costa, Willie.
CRS Videos:
Spacecraft power systems
Spacecraft Sensors
Spacecraft Cryogenic Systems
Spacecraft thermal control
Life support systems
Launch infrastructure and ground systems
Space weather
Spacecraft avionics
Spacecraft flight software systems
General Areas of Study for Space Knowledge
Mission Design
Thermodynamics
Further reading: Fundamentals of Thermodynamics, 2013
Rocket Propulsion
- Converging-diverging nozzles and supersonic flow. Sources: Josh the Engineer Youtube
- Impact of fuel choice and ratios
- Starting liquid fueled engines, gas generators and turbines
- Characteristic energy
- Combustion instability
Space Environment
Aerodynamics
Orbital Mechanics
Attitude control and dynamics
Navigation
Structures
Plasma Dynamics (orbital re-entry)
Launch Vehicle Design
Spacecraft power systems
Spacecraft Sensors
Spacecraft Cryogenic Systems and applications
Spacecraft thermal control
Life support systems
Launch infrastructure and ground systems
Space weather
Spacecraft avionics
Spacecraft flight software systems