Module descriptors - Advanced Computational Methods
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 Propulsion S5
Module aims
Through this module you will become familiar with the fundamental concepts and practical engineering theory related to propulsion systems for spacecraft. Both chemical and electrical thruster technologies will be discussed. This will include an overview of plasma physics relevant to electric propulsion devices. Additionally, essential astrodynamics concepts including orbital transfers, plane change, low thrust manoeuvres will be reviewed.
Learning outcomes
On successfully completing this module, you should be able to:
1. select appropriate spacecraft propulsive systems, based on a broad knowledge of the types available and their working principles.
2. appreciate the design drivers and mission requirements for modern spacecraft propulsion systems
3. understand the fundamentals of charged particle motion in electromagnetic fields and basic plasma physics phenomena, including Lorentz force, plasma sheaths, Child-Langmuir law and Hall effect, calculate the performance of chemical and electric propulsion systems from experimentally observable parameters
4. determine the propellant requirements based on propulsion system performance and orbital manoeuvre requirements
5. calculate the power requirements of an electric propulsion system based on a thrust and specific impulse target
6. conceptually design and size a cold-gas, monopropellant or bi-propellant propulsion system based on high-level system requirements.
7. conceptually design and size an electric propulsion system based on high level system requirements.
Module syllabus
analysis and propellant budgets.
manoeuvres. Low thrust orbital transfers.
- Exotic propulsion (electrodynamic tethers, laser propulsion, nuclear propulsion, etc.).
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 visualiser. Learning will be reinforced through tutorial question sheets.
Assessments
This module presents opportunities for both formative and summative assessment.
You will be summatively assessed via a closed-book final examination.
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.
| Assessment type | Assessment description | Weighting | Pass mark |
| Examination | 2-hour closed-book written examination in January | 100% | 50% |
You will receive feedback on examinations in the form of an examination feedback report on the performance of the entire cohort.
You will receive feedback on your performance whilst undertaking tutorial exercises, during which you will also receive instruction on the correct solution to tutorial problems.
Further individual feedback will be available to you on request via this module’s online feedback forum, through staff office hours and discussions with tutors.