62342 - Satellites and Space Missions

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will get to know the different subsystems of a spacecraft. Through an example of the design of a space mission, he/she learns the typical requirements for on-board payloads and the sizing criteria for all the subsystems.

Course contents

Space mission analysis and design

• Mission definition, objectives and architectures
• Fundamentals of Systems Engineering
• Design phases for a space mission
• Management and verification of requirements
• Environmental testing

Spacecraft subsystems

• Telecommunications
• Powe system
• On-board computer
• Attitude determination and contral
• Thermal control
• Propulsion for orbital control
• Structures and mechanisms
• Space debris and de-orbiting systems

Pyloads definition and sizing

• Technologica payloads
• Scientific payloads
• Instruments for Earth observation and planetary exploration missions

Readings/Bibliography

Recommended readings

1. W.J. Larson, J.R. Wertz, Space Mission Analysis and Design, Kluver, 1992

2. P. Fortescue, J. Stark, Spacecraft Systems Engineering, Wiley, 1995

3. Wertz, J.R. (ed.), Spacecraft Attitude Determination and Control, Kluwer, 1978

Teaching methods

Lectures are held by the course teacher, who explains the topics and presents the solution methods for the problems given during the practicing hours. The exercises require the use of pocket calculators for the solution of the mathematical end engineering problems given by the lecturer.

Assessment methods

The examination is written and constists of three questions, one of which requires the application of the sizing equations learnt during the course. The other two questions demands for describing one spacecraft subsystem.

The questions will assess the knowledge gathered by the student along with his/her problem solving abilities.

Teaching tools

LCD projector and PC are used in addition to the standard blackboard.

Office hours

See the website of Dario Modenini