Module overview
This module considers the basic theory and principles of operation of chemical and electric propulsion systems for spacecraft. Both solid and liquid propellant chemical propulsion systems are considered, as is a variety of electric propulsion systems utilising different propellant acceleration mechanisms.
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: SESA2024 and SESA3039
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Design a chemical propulsion system for a particular scenario, and evaluate the design
- Describe types of chemical propulsion systems, and evaluate their use for various different scenarios.
- Design an electric propulsion system for a particular scenario, and evaluate the design experimentally.
- Evaluate the factors that limit the performance of these different propellant feed systems
- Appreciate the suitability of a given propulsion system for a particular space application
- Evaluate the factors that limit the performance of these different propellant feed systems
- Analyse he design and operational behaviour of various types of spacecraft propulsion systems.
- Describe types of electric propulsion systems, and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages.
- Appreciate the different propellant feed system options for both chemical and electric propulsion systems, and their similarities/differences.
Syllabus
Introduction:
- Overview of spacecraft propulsion;
- Mass and energy sources for space engines;
- Basic theory of thermal jet/rocket engines
Chemical propulsion:
- Liquid propellant rocket engines;
- Solid propellant rocket engines;
- Nuclear rocket engines
Electric propulsion:
- EP basics and classification;
- EP with electromagnetic acceleration;
- EP with electrostatic acceleration;
- EP subsystem components
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, Workshops and Laboratory demonstration
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Independent Study | 116 |
Lecture | 34 |
Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Summative
Summative assessment description
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Continuous Assessment | 30% |
Final Assessment | 70% |
Referral
Referral assessment description
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
Repeat assessment description
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External