The module descriptors for this programme can be found below.
Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.
Please note that the curriculum of this programme is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.
Find out more about the limited circumstances in which we may need to make changes to or in relation to our courses, the type of changes we may make and how we will tell you about changes we have made.
Spacecraft Systems
Module aims
This module presents an industry standard methodology for spacecraft systems analysis and design. The main concepts covered in this course include the mission objectives: requirements analysis, political and regulatory constraints and financial considerations; the system as a whole: the launch vehicle/launch environment, spacecraft platform and ground segment; and the subsystem requirements: thermal, structure, power, electronics, communications and attitude control.
Learning outcomes
On successfully completing this module, you should be able to: 1. Analyse a broad variety of spacecraft systems. 2. Appraise the complete spacecraft mission objectives and requirements. 3. Interpret the inter-dependency between spacecraft mission systems and sub-systems. 4. Evaluate the impact of analysis and simulation on system design. AHEP Learning Outcomes: SM9M, EA6M, D9M, D10M, P9m, G1
Module syllabus
Mission Objectives: Requirements Political and regulatory constraints Financial constraints Complete System: Launch vehicle Spacecraft Ground segment Subsystem requirements: Thermal Structure Power Electronics Communication systems Guidance, Navigation and Control
Teaching methods
The module will be delivered primarily through large-class lectures introducing the key concepts and methods, supported by a variety of delivery methods combining the traditional and the technological. The content is presented via a combination of slides, whiteboard and visualizer.Learning will be reinforced through tutorial question sheets.
Assessments
This module presents opportunities for both formative and summative assessment.
You will be formatively assessed through progress tests and tutorial sessions.
You will have additional opportunities to self-assess your learning via tutorial problem sheets.
You will be summatively assessed by a written closed-book examination at the end of the module.
| Assessment type | Assessment description | Weighting | Pass mark |
| Examination | Closed-book written examination | 100% | 50% |
Through completion of tutorial exercises you will receive instant feedback on your performance, while simultaneously receiving instruction on the correct solution to the problem.
Further individual feedback is available on request via this module’s online feedback forum, staff office hours and discussions with tutors.
Feedback will be provided on examinations in the form of an exam feedback report on the performance of the entire cohort.