Module overview
This module describes the development of spacecraft instrumentation, from the definition of the requirements to the final design and operation. You will also gain a good understanding of the interaction between the instrument and the platform and the space qualification process.
Linked modules
Pre requisite: SESA2024
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Identify how instruments are developed for spacecraft, from the definition of their requirements to the final design and operation.
- Describe the basic physical principles involved in spacecraft instrument measurements and how these are translated into specific requirements for the instrument itself.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Solve problems systematically.
- Study and learn independently.
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Perform calculations from first principles to allow simple first order design analyses for a range of instruments.
- Select appropriate components to put together the design of complete instruments.
Syllabus
Discussion of the various different types of spacecraft instruments, including science and remote sensing.
This module includes a series of lectures, which cover:
- Physics of instruments: Remote sensing principles (electromagnetic spectrum, synthetic aperture and other radars, optics, spectroscopy, cameras, telescopes), in –situ measurements (planetary probes, landers and rovers, particulate/dust detectors, charged particle spectrometers).
- Sensors for attitude and position sensing
- The instrumentation design process in general
- The space qualification process (vibration (launch vehicles, thermal and other environmental aspects)
- Key performance parameters: Field of view, sensitivity, pointing, detectors, resolution
- Thermal and structural design requirements
- Future Developments
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
- 36 lectures, including slide and video presentations and examples.
Learning activities include:
- directed reading
- individual work to understand and master the course content, with the objective of successfully solving problems.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Wider reading or practice | 68 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 18 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Lecture | 36 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Internet Resources
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 15% |
| Final Assessment | 85% |
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