Rocket Science in Everyday Life from Coursera

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!

Week 2: How and Why We Explore Planets

Welcome to the second week of Rocket Science in Everyday Life! This week, we will embark on a thrilling expedition through our solar system to understand the fascinating worlds beyond our planet Earth. We will learn about exploring planets in our solar system and beyond. Throughout this module, we will gain a comprehensive understanding of the scientific motivations and methods behind planetary exploration. Let's get started!

Week 3: What Movies Get Right and Wrong About Transportation

Welcome to the third week of Rocket Science in Everyday Life! This week, we will explore the science of transportation and bust some myths we learned from movies. We will distinguish between the imaginative creations of science fiction and the current state of scientific understanding and technological development. By examining what movies get right and wrong about transportation, we will foster a deeper understanding of the scientific principles at play and explore the potential future possibilities in transportation technology. Let's get started!

Week 4: What Movies Get Right and Wrong About Destruction

Welcome to the fourth and the last week of Rocket Science in Everyday Life! This week, we will explore the science of destruction in movies. We will start by exploring the impacts of asteroids and comets. Then, we will explore the science of preventing asteroids and comets from impacting Earth. By separating fact from fiction, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the real-world challenges and strategies involved in safeguarding our planet from potential impacts. Let's get started!

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, 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

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

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By refreshing your knowledge of physics, you will be better prepared to understand the concepts covered in this course.

Browse courses on Physics

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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"

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of rocket science, making it a great resource for students who want to learn more about the subject.

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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

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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.

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Gather your notes from class.
Organize your notes by topic.
Identify the key concepts for each topic.
Create your study guide.

Four other activities

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Solve practice problems on rocket science

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Building a model rocket is a great way to apply the principles of rocket science in a practical setting.

Browse courses on Rocket Science

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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