Module overview
This module is a spacecraft design module, which will build on the understanding and knowledge gained from the Space Systems Engineering and Advanced Astronautics modules in part 3, as well as the modules covered in part 2. The Concurrent Spacecraft Design module will place those “building blocks” of spacecraft engineering into the context of a group spacecraft design project, with a particular emphasis on concurrent design.
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: SESA3039 and SESA3041
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- How different roles contribute to spacecraft design projects
- How data management and simulation tools can be used to support spacecraft design
- How to use good management practices for space projects
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Identify and apply appropriate data management and design software solutions to spacecraft design
- Design space missions using a concurrent design approach
- Critically analyse alternative spacecraft design configurations and options
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Collate and prioritise information according to design objectives
- Solve problems systematically and concurrently
- Communicate design choices and justifications using written and verbal methods
- Work as part of a team
Syllabus
The module will focus on the design of a small-satellite mission that will require understanding of spacecraft subsystems (knowledge coming from SESA2024 Astronautics and SESA3025/3039 Advanced Astronautics), space systems engineering and space project management (knowledge from SESA3041 Space Systems Engineering & Design). The module will comprise group work, based in a computer laboratory, to develop the spacecraft design. In addition, computer-based sessions will introduce concurrent spacecraft design software, an industrial standard design software tool for spacecraft (Systems Tool Kit) and a debris environment tool to assess the regulatory aspects of the space mission.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
Computer labs
Regular design reviews
Learning activities include:
Software-based tutorials
Individual and group work
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Wider reading or practice | 34 |
| Specialist Laboratory | 52 |
| Follow-up work | 16 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 16 |
| Completion of assessment task | 32 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Concurrent Spacecraft Design Environment. Software - Provided by the Faculty
Systems Tool Kit (software). www.agi.com Provided by the Faculty
Internet Resources
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Group ProjectsSummative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 100% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External