MAE 5160

Spacecraft Technology and Systems Architecture

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2023-2024.

This course is a survey of contemporary space technology from subsystems through launch and mission operations, all in the context of spacecraft and mission design. It focuses on the classical subsystems of robotic and human-rated spacecraft, planetary rovers, and other space vehicles, as well as on contemporary engineering practice. This course includes an in-depth design activity suitable for MEng students. Topics covered include subsystem technologies and the systems-engineering principles that tie them together into a spacecraft architecture. Subsystem technologies discussed include communications, thermal subsystems, structure, spacecraft power, payloads (remote sensing, in-situ sensing, human life support), entry/descent/landing, surface mobility, and flight-computer hardware and software. The final project consists of architecting a complete spacecraft system with appropriate subsystems, with designs supported by parametric analysis and simulation. 

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: MAE 3260 and MAE 4060, or permission of instructor.

• Students will be able to understand, at a higher systems level, space missions and systems, and how the space environment and mission requirements drive spacecraft design
• Students will be able to understand the basic fundamentals of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, attitude determination and control, power, structures, thermal, communications, and command and data handling
• Students will be able to understand typical practices for designing space systems in a contemporary context of US commercial space and government agencies
• Students will be able to simulate a spacecraft in operation at the level of a Preliminary Design Review (PDR) using state of the art tools, and identify and characterize subsystems for a preliminary spacecraft design

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