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Rocket Science in Everyday Life

Aaron Ridley

We encounter the results of rocket science all the time; from weather prediction to GPS navigation, rocket science has helped navigate our world in new, innovative ways. Rocket Science in Everyday Life explores innovations in rocket science, including the formation of space agencies, like NASA and the European Space Agency, that work to advance rocket science. Learn how satellites are used to track climate changes across the globe and how rockets have taken us to worlds beyond our own. Examine the scientific motivations and methods for planetary exploration to see beyond our solar system. End the course with some cinematic magic and examine how movies and TV use rocket science to create exciting worlds - even if they don’t always get the science behind it right.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1: The Science Being Conducted by NASA
Welcome to the first week of Rocket Science in Everyday Life! This week, we will learn about the science being conducted by NASA and other space agencies around the world. We will start by identifying these space agencies to recognize their general missions. Then, we will comprehend the structure of NASA and how it does science. Finally, we will identify NASA Earth science missions and comprehend the crucial role of Earth science satellites. Let's get started!
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a basic introduction to rocket science
Examines several real-world applications of engineering
Meant for a general audience
Teaches the fundamentals of rocket science, suitable for beginners
Instructor Aaron Ridley is recognized for his work in rocket science
Taught by a veteran NASA scientist

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Reviews summary

Rocket science: engaging everyday exploration

According to learners, Rocket Science in Everyday Life offers a largely positive experience, particularly for those seeking an accessible overview of complex topics. Students found the course highly engaging, especially due to its unique approach of connecting rocket science to everyday life and analyzing its portrayal in movies and TV. This makes it an ideal course for beginners and curious individuals. While it provides a broad introduction to various applications from space agencies to planetary exploration, some might find it lacks the technical depth required for professional or advanced study, serving more as an excellent foundational course.
Offers a wide scope but may not delve into deep technical detail.
"It covers a lot of ground, from NASA missions to cinematic physics, but stays high-level."
"I got a fantastic overview of various rocket science applications, not deep equations."
"If you're seeking a comprehensive technical deep dive, this might not be your course."
Perfectly suited for those new to scientific concepts and space exploration.
"As someone new to rocket science, I felt completely comfortable and learned so much."
"It's a fantastic entry point for anyone curious about how space science impacts us."
"I appreciated that it didn't assume prior knowledge, making it very approachable."
Uses relatable examples and pop culture to make learning enjoyable.
"The connection to movies and everyday phenomena made the concepts really stick."
"I especially enjoyed the sections debunking common sci-fi myths."
"It was surprisingly fun to learn about serious science through a pop culture lens."
Provides an easy-to-understand introduction to rocket science.
"I found this course incredibly easy to follow, even without a strong science background."
"It breaks down complex ideas into manageable pieces for everyday understanding."
"This is a great starting point if you're curious but intimidated by the topic."

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 Rocket Science in Everyday Life with these activities:
Review the basics of physics
By refreshing your knowledge of physics, you will be better prepared to understand the concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on Physics
Show steps
  • Review your notes from your high school physics class.
  • Take practice problems from an introductory physics textbook.
  • Watch online videos or tutorials on physics topics.
Read the book "Rocket Science for Dummies"
This book provides a comprehensive overview of rocket science, making it a great resource for students who want to learn more about the subject.
Show steps
  • Read the book from cover to cover.
  • Take notes on the key concepts.
  • Answer the review questions at the end of each chapter.
Create a study guide for the course
Creating a study guide will help you to organize your notes and to identify the key concepts that you need to know for the course.
Show steps
  • Gather your notes from class.
  • Organize your notes by topic.
  • Identify the key concepts for each topic.
  • Create your study guide.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve practice problems on rocket science
Solving practice problems will help you to develop a deeper understanding of the concepts covered in this course and to improve your problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Rocket Science
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in a textbook.
  • Solve the problems on your own.
  • Check your answers against the solutions provided.
Attend a workshop on rocket science
Attending a workshop will allow you to learn from experts in the field and to network with other people who are interested in rocket science.
Browse courses on Rocket Science
Show steps
  • Find a workshop that is relevant to your interests.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
  • Follow up with the workshop organizers after the event.
Create a presentation on a topic related to rocket science
Creating a presentation will help you to organize your thoughts on a topic and to communicate your knowledge to others.
Browse courses on Rocket Science
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you are interested in.
  • Research your topic.
  • Create a presentation outline.
  • Develop your presentation slides.
  • Practice your presentation.
Build a model rocket
Building a model rocket is a great way to apply the principles of rocket science in a practical setting.
Browse courses on Rocket Science
Show steps
  • Design your rocket.
  • Build your rocket.
  • Test your rocket.
  • Refine your design.
  • Launch your rocket.

Career center

Learners who complete Rocket Science in Everyday Life will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Aerospace Engineer
As an Aerospace Engineer, you would get to design, develop, and test spacecraft, missiles, and other aircraft. The course, Rocket Science in Everyday Life, would help build a foundation for this career by providing foundational knowledge on rocket science and its applications. You will gain a thorough understanding of the scientific principles underlying rocket propulsion, spacecraft design, and space exploration to help you get started in this exciting field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer
Systems Engineer
As a Systems Engineer, you will get to integrate complex systems, ensuring that they function together seamlessly. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a solid understanding of the scientific principles and engineering concepts that are critical to this role. By understanding the underlying principles of rocket science, you will have the knowledge to analyze, design, and implement complex systems in a variety of industries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials, improving existing ones, and studying their properties. You will get to work on a wide range of materials, from metals and ceramics to polymers and composites. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a foundational understanding of the materials used in rocket science and spacecraft design. This course will help you understand the material properties and performance required for various aerospace applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Mechanical Engineer
In the role of a Mechanical Engineer, you will design, develop, and test various mechanical systems, from engines and turbines to robots and medical devices. The course, Rocket Science in Everyday Life, can enhance your understanding of propulsion systems, spacecraft design, and materials used in rocket science. This knowledge will enable you to contribute to the design of reliable and efficient mechanical systems in various industries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists will design, develop, and implement computer software and systems. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide foundational knowledge on computer systems used in spacecraft and space exploration. You will learn about the principles of computer science, software engineering, and data analysis, which are essential for developing and maintaining complex software systems in various fields.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Data Scientist
As a Data Scientist, your role is to collect, analyze, and interpret data to extract meaningful insights. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a foundational understanding of data analysis techniques used in space exploration and satellite data. You will gain experience in handling, processing, and visualizing large datasets, which are valuable skills for a successful career in data science.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Business Analyst
As a Business Analyst, your role is to analyze business needs and processes to identify opportunities for improvement. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide valuable insights into the application of scientific principles and data analysis in real-world scenarios. This course will help you understand how to gather, analyze, and interpret data to make informed business decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Technical Writer
As a Technical Writer, your role is to create clear and concise documentation for technical products and services. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a foundational understanding of the concepts and principles of rocket science. This course will help you develop the ability to translate complex technical information into easily understandable language, which is essential for effective technical writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Science Teacher
As a Science Teacher, your role is to educate students about scientific concepts and principles. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide valuable content and pedagogical approaches for teaching rocket science and space exploration. This course will help you develop engaging and informative lesson plans that will inspire your students to pursue careers in science and engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Teacher
Science Communicator
As a Science Communicator, your role is to translate complex scientific concepts and research findings into accessible and engaging content for the public. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a comprehensive overview of rocket science and its applications. This course will help you understand the scientific principles and the societal impact of space exploration, equipping you to effectively communicate science to diverse audiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Communicator
Science Writer
As a Science Writer, your role is to write and edit articles, reports, and other content about scientific research and discoveries. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide a foundational understanding of rocket science and its applications. This course will help you develop the ability to write clear, accurate, and engaging content about complex scientific topics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Program Manager
As a Program Manager, your role is to plan, organize, and execute complex projects. Rocket Science in Everyday Life can provide insights into the project management methodologies and techniques used in space exploration. This course will help you understand the challenges and complexities of managing large-scale projects, from planning and budgeting to risk management and stakeholder engagement.
See salaries and explore the career path for Program Manager
Project Manager
In the role of a Project Manager, you will plan, execute, and close projects, ensuring they are completed within budget, on time, and to the required quality. Rocket Science in Everyday Life may be useful as it provides insights into the complexities of managing projects in a highly technical field. This course can help you understand project management methodologies and best practices, as well as the challenges and risks associated with large-scale projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Quality Assurance Analyst
As a Quality Assurance Analyst, your role is to ensure that products and services meet the required standards and regulations. Rocket Science in Everyday Life may be helpful as it provides foundational knowledge on quality assurance processes and methodologies used in the aerospace industry. This course can help you understand the principles of quality assurance, risk management, and testing, which are essential for a successful career in quality assurance.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst
Safety Engineer
As a Safety Engineer, your role is to identify, assess, and mitigate risks to ensure the safety of individuals and the environment. Rocket Science in Everyday Life may be useful as it provides insights into safety protocols and risk management techniques used in the space industry. This course can help you understand the principles of safety engineering, hazard analysis, and accident prevention, which are essential for a successful career in safety engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Safety Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Rocket Science in Everyday Life.
Cover image
The Cosmic Connection
Save
A classic work of popular science that explores the vastness and beauty of the cosmos. It aligns with the course's exploration of how rocket science has led to a better understanding of the universe.
The Cosmic Connection
Paperback
Check
The Cosmic Connection
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Apollo 8
Save
A technical and historical account of the Apollo program that provides a detailed look at the engineering and operational challenges of landing humans on the Moon.
Apollo 8: The Mission That Changed Everything
Hardcover
$$
Apollo 8: The Mission That Changed Everything
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Ignition!
Save
Provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the history and development of liquid rocket propellants. It can serve as a valuable reference for learners seeking to deepen their understanding of rocketry's technical aspects.
Ignition!
Paperback
Check
Ignition!
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The New World on Mars
Save
Provides an extensive examination of the scientific, technical, and economic challenges of sending humans to Mars and lays out a detailed plan for doing so. It aligns with the course's exploration of human space exploration and serves as a good complementary read.
The New World on Mars
Paperback
Check
The New World on Mars
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Paco
Save
Provides a more detailed look at the engineering and physics behind rockets and is suited for a general audience. It can serve to enrich learners' understanding of the science behind rocketry.
Paco: The Cat Who Meowed in Space
Paperback
$
Cover image
From Bauhaus to Our House
Save
A classic work of narrative journalism that provides a vivid and entertaining account of the early days of the space race, a period which the course briefly overviews.
From Bauhaus to Our House
Paperback
Check
From Bauhaus to Our House
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Value of the Moon
Save
A comprehensive overview of the history, present state, and future of space exploration that can add historical context to some of the topics covered in the course, particularly concerning planetary exploration.
The Value of the Moon: How to Explore, Live, and...
Paperback
$$
The Value of the Moon: How to Explore, Live, and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Spacelab Story
Save
Serves as a well-written and accessible introduction to rocketry. More of a general introduction to the subject than a deep dive.
The Spacelab Story
Paperback
Check
The Spacelab Story
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Hidden Figures
Save
Provides an inspiring look at the often-overlooked contributions of African-American women to the space race. Also, it can help build an interest in science and space STEM fields.
Hidden Figures
Paperback
Check
Hidden Figures
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword
Save
Explores the challenges that established companies face when trying to innovate and adapt to new technologies. The course briefly touches on technological innovations in rocket science.
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Hardcover
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Audio CD
$$
The Innovator's Dilemma, with a New Foreword: When...
Kindle Edition
$$
Andy Weir's 3-Book Collection Set (Project Hail...
Save
A science fiction novel that provides a well-researched and realistic portrayal of the challenges and rewards of space exploration. The novel can help engage learners' interest in space exploration.
Andy Weir 3 Books Collection Set(Project Hail Mary...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Six Degrees: The Science of a Connected Age
Save
Explores the interconnectedness of our world and how seemingly unrelated events can have a profound impact on one another.
Six Degrees: The Science of a Connected Age
Paperback
$$
By Duncan J. Watts - Six Degrees: The Science of a...
Paperback
$$
Six Degrees: The Science of a Connected Age
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Stakeholder Capitalism
Save
Explores the impact of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and robotics, on society and the economy. Provides a glimpse of the potential future of rocket science and space exploration.
Stakeholder Capitalism: A Global Economy that Works...
Hardcover
$$
(中文) Stakeholder Capitalism (Chinese Edition)
Hardcover
$$
Stakeholder Capitalism: A Global Economy that Works...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Packing for Mars
Save
A lighthearted and informative look at the challenges of living and working in space. It can provide learners with a more personal and human-centered perspective.
Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in...
Paperback
$$
Packing for Mars for Kids
Hardcover
$$
Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in...
Paperback
$$
Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in...
Kindle Edition
$$
Packing for Mars for Kids
Kindle Edition
$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Aaron Ridley
Language
English
This course belongs to a collection called Rocket Science 101. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. The Basics of Rocket Science
  2. The History of Rocket Science
  3. Rocket Science in Everyday Life (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a basic introduction to rocket science
Examines several real-world applications of engineering
Meant for a general audience
Teaches the fundamentals of rocket science, suitable for beginners
Instructor Aaron Ridley is recognized for his work in rocket science
Taught by a veteran NASA scientist
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