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Manuel Sanjurjo Rivo,
Mario Merino,
Eduardo Ahedo,
Manuel Soler,
Gonzalo Sánchez Arriaga,
Filippo Cichocki,
Daniel Pérez,
David Morante,
and
Xin Chen
Space exploration plays a major role in the history of humankind. The cultural, political and sociological repercussions are extraordinary, and the amount of resources dedicated to space exploration is enormous. This aerospace course is a first step for those interested in learning more about the history of the space and the impact of space exploration on our daily lives.
Read more
Space exploration plays a major role in the history of humankind. The cultural, political and sociological repercussions are extraordinary, and the amount of resources dedicated to space exploration is enormous. This aerospace course is a first step for those interested in learning more about the history of the space and the impact of space exploration on our daily lives.
Read more
Space exploration plays a major role in the history of humankind. The cultural, political and sociological repercussions are extraordinary, and the amount of resources dedicated to space exploration is enormous. This aerospace course is a first step for those interested in learning more about the history of the space and the impact of space exploration on our daily lives.
Each week we will focus on a major chapter in the history of space exploration accompanied by an introduction to the relevant technical topics to fully understand these historical developments. During the seven weeks of the course, we will follow the technical, political and cultural contexts that lead to the birth of the space age, uncover the evolution of space exploration from competition to cooperation in the Apollo and post-Apollo era and finally, analyze current trends in space exploration.
By successfully completing this course, you will acquire the critical tools to understand the key events and developments of the Space Age. You will learn to solve basic technical and engineering problems of space travel, rocket propulsion, space systems, and human space flight.
Course image: Rosetta at Comet (landscape) / Copyright: ESA/ATG medialab; Comet image: ESA/Rosetta/Navcam.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- The history of space exploration and its cultural, political, and scientific impact
- Fundamentals of aerospace engineering, including how to move in space and how rockets work
- The key aspects of space systems and the space environment
- Current trends and future projects in space exploration
- The history of space exploration and its cultural, political, and scientific impact
- Fundamentals of aerospace engineering, including how to move in space and how rockets work
- The key aspects of space systems and the space environment
- Current trends and future projects in space exploration
Syllabus
Week 1: The first dreamers and visionaries. Frau im Mond (1929)Towards space travel. When the story begins. Imagining space travel. Spaceflight literature. Promoting space travel. Pioneers and visionaries. The motion of celestial bodies.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: The first dreamers and visionaries. Frau im Mond (1929)Towards space travel. When the story begins. Imagining space travel. Spaceflight literature. Promoting space travel. Pioneers and visionaries. The motion of celestial bodies.
Read more
Week 2: The first missiles. The vengeance weapon V-2 (1944)Times of Weimar Republic and the Third Reich. Principles of rocket operation. V-2. Rockets and the birth of the Cold War. Chemical rockets.
Week 3: The dawn of the Space Age. Sputnik (1957)Treaty of Rome and Sputnik. Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles. International Astronautical Federation. Rockets and Atmospheric exploration. IGY. The Space Environment. Sputnik and the birth of the space era.
Week 4: The Giant Leap. Apollo 11 (1969)The Giant Leap. First Man in Orbit. Moon Race. Apollo. Introduction to Space Systems I.
Week 5: Space Cooperation. Birth of ESA (1975)Post-Moon-race cooperation. Soyuz-Apollo programme. ESA example of cooperation. The International Space Station (ISS). Introduction to Space Systems II. Life in space. Accessing space.
Week 6: Using space for Humankind. The exploitation of spaceToday’s life needs space. Telecommunications. Earth Observation. GNSS. Space Situational Awareness. Space technologies back on the Earth.
Week 7: Looking ahead. Ambition (2015)What’s next? Human Exploration of the Solar System. Robotic Exploration of the Solar System. Scientific Exploration of the Universe. Space Tourism. Getting farther and beyond: electric propulsion.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Appropriate for all learners interested in the sociopolitical and scientific impacts of space exploration
Provides a basic introduction to the history of space exploration
Covers the technical aspects of space exploration, including the fundamentals of aerospace engineering and the space environment
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Reviews summary
Rocket science and space exploration
Learners say this course is an engaging introduction to space exploration that covers history, engineering, mathematics, and physics. According to students, this course allows students to build upon their prior knowledge in engineering and mathematics or delve into these concepts for the first time. However, learners say prior mathematics knowledge, especially calculus, is helpful.
Prior knowledge in math and engineering is helpful.
"It was a nice one, and it's nice to see a European course about space exploration once in a while."
"It's a great course if you have prior knowledge and background in a bit of astronomy, mathematics and engineering, even though sometimes feels rushed."
Comprehensive and engaging course
"This is a nice course, and it covers engineering, mathematics, physics, history and future of space exploration as well."
"This course is really worth my time, and the instructors explain the contents really in detail."
Limited assessment attempts and some difficult exams.
"Some math and physics will help a lot in some technical topics."
"However, I would like the tests to have 2 attempts instead of 1 so everyone can learn from their mistakes and try again"
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Conquest of Space: Space Exploration and Rocket Science with these
activities:
Read 'Space Exploration: The First 50 Years'
Show steps
Gaining a perspective on the historical aspects of space exploration will aid in comprehending the motivations, challenges, and advancements covered in the course.
View
Coming Home
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book to gain an overview of the history of space exploration.
-
Take notes on key events, milestones, and technological developments.
Organize Course Materials and Notes
Show steps
Staying organized with course materials and notes will make reviewing and studying more efficient, enhance retention, and improve overall understanding of the course content.
Show steps
-
Create a dedicated folder or notebook for the course.
-
File lecture notes, assignments, and other materials in an organized manner.
-
Review and summarize notes regularly.
Review Basic Physics
Show steps
Revisiting basic physics concepts will help solidify the knowledge needed to fully understand the engineering concepts explored in this course.
Browse courses on
Physics
Show steps
-
Review kinematics and dynamics concepts such as motion, force, and energy.
-
Review the principles of classical mechanics.
-
Practice solving basic physics problems.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Rocket Propulsion Calculations
Show steps
Practicing solving rocket propulsion problems will strengthen problem-solving skills, deepen understanding of concepts, and build confidence in applying the knowledge learned in the course.
Show steps
-
Find online resources and textbooks with practice problems.
-
Solve problems related to thrust, specific impulse, delta-v, and efficiency.
-
Review solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Build a Model Rocket
Show steps
Building a model rocket provides hands-on experience in rocketry principles, enhances understanding of aerodynamics, and fosters creativity in applying engineering concepts.
Show steps
-
Gather necessary materials and tools.
-
Follow a tutorial or instructions to assemble the rocket.
-
Test the rocket's performance and make adjustments.
Volunteer at a Local Science Museum or Planetarium
Show steps
Volunteering at a science museum or planetarium offers opportunities to engage with the public, share knowledge about space exploration, and inspire future generations.
Browse courses on
Science Outreach
Show steps
-
Contact local science museums or planetariums to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend training sessions and prepare for interacting with visitors.
-
Assist visitors, lead discussions, and participate in educational activities.
Design a Space Habitat for a Mars Mission
Show steps
Designing a space habitat for a Mars mission challenges critical thinking, fosters innovation, and encourages a holistic understanding of the requirements for long-term space exploration.
Show steps
-
Define requirements and specifications for the habitat.
-
Research and select materials and technologies for the habitat.
-
Create a detailed design, including layout, life support systems, and safety features.
-
Estimate the cost and feasibility of the design.
Read 'Space Exploration: The First 50 Years'
Show steps
Gaining a perspective on the historical aspects of space exploration will aid in comprehending the motivations, challenges, and advancements covered in the course.
View
Coming Home
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book to gain an overview of the history of space exploration.
- Take notes on key events, milestones, and technological developments.
Organize Course Materials and Notes
Show steps
Staying organized with course materials and notes will make reviewing and studying more efficient, enhance retention, and improve overall understanding of the course content.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a dedicated folder or notebook for the course.
- File lecture notes, assignments, and other materials in an organized manner.
- Review and summarize notes regularly.
Review Basic Physics
Show steps
Revisiting basic physics concepts will help solidify the knowledge needed to fully understand the engineering concepts explored in this course.
Browse courses on
Physics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review kinematics and dynamics concepts such as motion, force, and energy.
- Review the principles of classical mechanics.
- Practice solving basic physics problems.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Rocket Propulsion Calculations
Show steps
Practicing solving rocket propulsion problems will strengthen problem-solving skills, deepen understanding of concepts, and build confidence in applying the knowledge learned in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online resources and textbooks with practice problems.
- Solve problems related to thrust, specific impulse, delta-v, and efficiency.
- Review solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Build a Model Rocket
Show steps
Building a model rocket provides hands-on experience in rocketry principles, enhances understanding of aerodynamics, and fosters creativity in applying engineering concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather necessary materials and tools.
- Follow a tutorial or instructions to assemble the rocket.
- Test the rocket's performance and make adjustments.
Volunteer at a Local Science Museum or Planetarium
Show steps
Volunteering at a science museum or planetarium offers opportunities to engage with the public, share knowledge about space exploration, and inspire future generations.
Browse courses on
Science Outreach
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Contact local science museums or planetariums to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend training sessions and prepare for interacting with visitors.
- Assist visitors, lead discussions, and participate in educational activities.
Design a Space Habitat for a Mars Mission
Show steps
Designing a space habitat for a Mars mission challenges critical thinking, fosters innovation, and encourages a holistic understanding of the requirements for long-term space exploration.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define requirements and specifications for the habitat.
- Research and select materials and technologies for the habitat.
- Create a detailed design, including layout, life support systems, and safety features.
- Estimate the cost and feasibility of the design.
Career center
Learners who complete The Conquest of Space: Space Exploration and Rocket Science will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Astronaut
Astronaut
Astronauts are responsible for conducting scientific experiments, operating spacecraft, and performing spacewalks. This course provides a comprehensive overview of space exploration, including the history of space travel, the principles of rocket science, and the challenges of human spaceflight. By completing this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as an astronaut.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers design, develop, test, and oversee the production of aircraft, rockets, satellites, and other spacecraft. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of aerospace engineering, including aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft systems. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as an aerospace engineer.
Rocket Scientist
Rocket Scientist
Rocket scientists are responsible for the design, development, and testing of rockets and other spacecraft propulsion systems. This course provides a detailed overview of rocket science, including the principles of propulsion, the design of rocket engines, and the challenges of space travel. By completing this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a rocket scientist.
Spacecraft Operator
Spacecraft Operator
Spacecraft operators are responsible for the operation and maintenance of spacecraft, including satellites, rockets, and space probes. This course provides a comprehensive overview of spacecraft systems, including the principles of spacecraft design, the operation of spacecraft subsystems, and the challenges of space travel. By completing this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a spacecraft operator.
Space Mission Planner
Space Mission Planner
Space mission planners are responsible for the planning and execution of space missions, including the design of mission trajectories, the selection of spacecraft systems, and the coordination of mission operations. This course provides a detailed overview of space mission planning, including the principles of orbital mechanics, the design of mission trajectories, and the challenges of space travel. By completing this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a space mission planner.
Space Policy Analyst
Space Policy Analyst
Space policy analysts are responsible for the development and implementation of space policy, including the regulation of space activities, the promotion of space exploration, and the coordination of international space cooperation. This course provides a comprehensive overview of space policy, including the history of space law, the principles of space policy, and the challenges of space governance. By completing this course, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a space policy analyst.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems engineers are responsible for the design, development, and integration of complex systems, including spacecraft, satellites, and other aerospace systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, including the systems engineering process, the design of system architectures, and the challenges of systems integration. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a systems engineer.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical writers are responsible for the creation and maintenance of technical documentation, including user manuals, training materials, and technical reports. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of technical writing, including the principles of clear and concise writing, the use of technical language, and the challenges of technical communication. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a technical writer.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science writers are responsible for the communication of scientific information to the public, including the writing of articles, books, and press releases. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of science writing, including the principles of clear and concise writing, the use of scientific language, and the challenges of science communication. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a science writer.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers are responsible for the education of students, including the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of teaching, including the principles of lesson planning, classroom management, and the challenges of teaching STEM subjects. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a teacher.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists are responsible for the gathering, writing, and reporting of news and information. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of journalism, including the principles of news writing, reporting, and the challenges of journalism. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a journalist.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers are responsible for the representation of clients in legal matters, including the practice of space law. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of space law, including the principles of space treaties, the regulation of space activities, and the challenges of space governance. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a lawyer specializing in space law.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business analysts are responsible for the analysis of business needs and the development of solutions to business problems. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of business analysis, including the principles of business process modeling, the analysis of business requirements, and the challenges of business analysis. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a business analyst.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project managers are responsible for the planning, execution, and control of projects. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of project management, including the principles of project planning, project scheduling, and the challenges of project management. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a project manager.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians are responsible for the organization and management of library collections, including the collection of space-related materials. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of library science, including the principles of library organization, the management of library collections, and the challenges of librarianship. By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to pursue a career as a librarian specializing in space-related materials.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3tds2d/the
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Conquest of Space: Space Exploration and Rocket Science.
Classic textbook on rocket propulsion. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, from the basics of rocket engines to the design and operation of complex rocket systems.
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of liquid rocket propellants, from their early development to their use in modern rockets. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of space exploration.
Provides a comprehensive overview of spacecraft systems engineering, the process of designing, developing, and operating spacecraft. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the engineering of space exploration.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Apollo program, the United States' effort to land a man on the Moon. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of space exploration.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Sputnik program, the Soviet Union's effort to launch the first artificial satellite into space. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of space exploration.
Save
This science fiction trilogy tells the story of the first human mission to Mars. It provides a realistic and detailed depiction of the challenges and opportunities of space exploration.
Provides a comprehensive overview of astrodynamics, the study of the motion of celestial bodies. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the dynamics of space exploration.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of space systems engineering. It covers the fundamental principles of space systems engineering, as well as the design and analysis of space systems. The book valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about space systems engineering.
Save
This classic science fiction novel tells the story of the first human settlers on Mars. The novel explores the challenges and dangers of space exploration, as well as the hopes and dreams of the settlers.
Save
Provides a humorous and informative look at the challenges of living and working in space. It covers everything from the effects of microgravity on the human body to the design of space suits.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3tds2d/the
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Effort
3 to 4 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Instructors
Manuel Sanjurjo Rivo
Mario Merino
Eduardo Ahedo
Manuel Soler
Gonzalo Sánchez Arriaga
Filippo Cichocki
Daniel Pérez
David Morante
Xin Chen
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Appropriate for all learners interested in the sociopolitical and scientific impacts of space exploration
Provides a basic introduction to the history of space exploration
Covers the technical aspects of space exploration, including the fundamentals of aerospace engineering and the space environment
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