Checking date: 21/01/2025


Course: 2024/2025

Space Vehicles and Orbital Dynamics
(14169)
Bachelor in Aerospace Engineering (Plan: 421 - Estudio: 251)


Coordinating teacher: MERINO MARTINEZ, MARIO

Department assigned to the subject: Aerospace Engineering Department

Type: Compulsory
ECTS Credits: 6.0 ECTS

Course:
Semester:




Requirements (Subjects that are assumed to be known)
Calculus I, Linear Algebra, Physics I, Programming, Calculus II, Mechanics Applied to Aerospace Engineering, Advanced Mathematics, Modeling in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanics of Flight I.
Objectives
Formulate and solve orbital mechanics problems, use that knowledge to perform preliminary designs of space missions, and evaluate the capabilities of different spacecraft and space systems.
Learning Outcomes
CB2: Students are able to apply their knowledge to their work or vocation in a professional manner and possess the competences usually demonstrated through the development and defence of arguments and problem solving within their field of study. CB5: Students will have developed the learning skills necessary to undertake further study with a high degree of autonomy. CG9: Ability to analyse and solve aerospace problems in new or unknown environments, within broad and complex contexts, integrated in multidisciplinary and international work teams. CE.CRA13: Applied knowledge of: the science and technology of materials; mechanics and thermodynamics; fluid mechanics; aerodynamics and flight mechanics; navigation and air traffic systems; aerospace technology; theory of structures; air transport; economics and production; projects; environmental impact. RA1: Have basic knowledge and understanding of mathematics, basic sciences, and engineering within the aerospace field, including: behaviour of structures; thermodynamic cycles and fluid mechanics; the air navigation system, air traffic, and coordination with other means of transport; aerodynamic forces; flight dynamics; materials for aerospace use; manufacturing processes; airport infrastructures and buildings. In addition to a specific knowledge and understanding of the specific aircraft and aero-engine technologies in each of the subjects included in this degree. RA2: Be able to identify aerospace engineering problems, recognise specifications, collect and interpret data and information, establish different resolution methods and select the most appropriate among the available alternatives. RA3: Be able to carry out designs in the field of aerospace vehicles, propulsion systems, navigation and air traffic control, airport infrastructures, or equipment and materials for aerospace use, which comply with the required specifications, collaborating with other engineers and graduates. RA6: Have the necessary skills for the practice of engineering in today's society.
Description of contents: programme
1. Two body problem Conservation laws Conics and orbital elements 2. Kepler's equation Formulation for the elliptic, parabolic, hyperbolic cases Numerical solution 3. Orbital maneuvers Fundamentals of spherical trigonometry Hohmann, bielliptic transfers; plane change; phasing maneuvers, electric orbit raising 4. Preliminary orbit determination Gibbs problem, Gauss problem Lambert's problem Porkchop diagrams 5. Perturbations Special perturbation methods General perturbation methods Drag, solar radiation, third body Geopotential and spherical harmonics 6. Interplanetary trajectories Patched-conics method Launch and B-Plane targeting 7. Relative motion and rendezvous Clohessy-Wiltshire equations 8. Circular restricted three body problem Derivation and normalization. Jacobi's energy integral Lagrange libration points Stability and trajectories near Lagrange points 9. Space vehicles: attitude dynamics Free body attitude kinematics and dynamics Gravity gradient Reaction control system and reaction wheels 10. Introduction to space missions and space systems Application orbits, types of missions Spacecraft subsystems
Learning activities and methodology
Theory sessions in master classes (flipped-classroom methodology) Problem sessions in reduced groups Computer sessions with mathematical software Personal and group work
Assessment System
  • % end-of-term-examination 60
  • % of continuous assessment (assigments, laboratory, practicals...) 40

Calendar of Continuous assessment


Extraordinary call: regulations
Basic Bibliography
  • Hanspeter Schaub and John L. Junkins. Analytical mechanics of space systems. AIAA. 2003
  • Howard D. Curtis. Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students. Elsevier. 2010
Additional Bibliography
  • Peter Fortescue, Graham Swinerd, John Stark. Spacecraft systems engineering. John Wiley and Sons. 2011

The course syllabus may change due academic events or other reasons.