Space Mission Design Project
Syllabus, Master's level, 1FA256
- Code
- 1FA256
- Education cycle
- Second cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Physics A1N, Technology A1N
- Grading system
- Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail (U)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 6 May 2010
- Responsible department
- Department of Physics and Astronomy
Entry requirements
180 credits in physics, mathematics and technology.
Learning outcomes
The main goal with this course is that the student should learn how to work in project form. On completion of the course the student should also have gained an increased understanding of space activities and the special conditions prevailing in this field and should be able to show this by
- solving a complex scientific and technical problem in project form together with several other persons
- presenting the solution using adequate scientific and technical terminology both orally and in writing
Content
The course starts with a short introduction to the scientific goal of an imaginary space mission. Economic restrictions and time-limits for the project are specified at the same time, and the participants in the course are then supposed to investigate the prospects for the imaginary space mission, within the given restrictions and time-limits. The fictitious space mission is based on real plans and is similar to existing, real projects within international space agencies. The main part of the course consists of project meetings with oral and written contributions from the participants, prepared in advance, with some initial lectures on the particular bounday conditions, problems and methods of space missions at the course start. A large part of the work is carried out in the form of group discussions. The participants are themselves supposed to find the information necessary to accomplish the project. The final examination of the project consists of a written report where each participant has contributed with some part. The report should also be presented to representatives of the Swedish space industry at the end of the course.
Instruction
Lectures, project meetings and written and oral reports. Presence at the oral reports and project meetings is compulsory.
Assessment
The grade given is based on the quality of the oral and written reports. The ability to finish assignments within the given time-limits is of importance for the grade given.