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Aaron Ridley
Modern rocket design started amidst World War II, pushing the boundaries of what rocketry was capable of. In The History of Rocket Science, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this complicated history and discuss key advancements, like the creation of the V2 rocket. Examine the ramifications of the advancements of rocket science from a historical and societal perspective, going beyond the technological advancements during the war. This course also explores the Cold War, culminating in the United States’ creation of the Apollo 11 — the pivotal creation that landed the U.S. on the moon. Round out the course by getting a first-hand look at space shuttles, space stations, space tourism, and how companies are opening up space exploration.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: The Advent of Modern Rockets
Welcome to the History of Rocket Science course and to Week 1: The Advent of Modern Rockets. This module will take you on a journey through the fascinating history of rocketry, beginning with the time before modern rockets existed and leading up to the post-WWII era. By the end of this module, you will be able to recognize what came before modern rockets, comprehend the cost of rocketry in WWII, and comprehend the development of rocket inventions in WWII in Germany. You will also be able to recognize how the US and USSR responded to post-WWII, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the course. Let's dive into the fascinating world of rocket science!
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Syllabus
Week 1: The Advent of Modern Rockets
Welcome to the History of Rocket Science course and to Week 1: The Advent of Modern Rockets. This module will take you on a journey through the fascinating history of rocketry, beginning with the time before modern rockets existed and leading up to the post-WWII era. By the end of this module, you will be able to recognize what came before modern rockets, comprehend the cost of rocketry in WWII, and comprehend the development of rocket inventions in WWII in Germany. You will also be able to recognize how the US and USSR responded to post-WWII, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the course. Let's dive into the fascinating world of rocket science!
Read more
Week 2: The Space Race
Welcome to the second module of the History of Rocket Science course—Week 2: The Space Race. This module will take you on a thrilling journey through one of the most exciting periods in the history of rocketry—the space race. By the end of this module, you will be able to comprehend the political paradigm of the space race: communism vs. capitalism, recognize the USSR's early victories in the space race, identify the components of the US plan to get to the moon, and explain why the USSR plan failed to get to the moon. Join us as we relive the excitement and intrigue of the space race and gain a deeper understanding of the history of rocket science.
Week 3: The Space Shuttle Era
Welcome to the third module of the History of Rocket Science course—Week 3: The Space Shuttle Era. This module will explore the era of the Space Shuttle program, which marked a new phase in the history of space exploration. We will examine the evolution of the shuttle program and its impact on the exploration and utilization of space. The module will be divided into three parts, each focusing on a distinct aspect of the Space Shuttle era. The first part will cover Fast Airplanes, where we will explore the technological advancements that made high-speed aircraft and commercial space travel possible. The second part will focus on Space Stations, where we will examine the construction and operation of the International Space Station (ISS), which continues to be a vital platform for scientific research and technological development in space. Lastly, the third part will cover The Space Shuttle, where we will take a closer look at the cost and benefits of the shuttle program, including its role in deploying and repairing satellites, and its use in servicing the Hubble Space Telescope. Join us as we explore the exciting and innovative era of the Space Shuttle program and gain a deeper understanding of the history of rocket science.
Week 4: The Industrial Revolution
Welcome to the fourth and the last module of the History of Rocket Science course—Week 4: The Industrial Revolution. In this module, we will explore how the rocket industry has been transformed by the rise of commercial space companies and the emergence of new space technologies. By the end of this module, you will be able to identify the reasons for the development of small satellites, recognize the cost model of launch vehicles, identify what launch vehicle providers are doing to drive costs down, and comprehend the motivation to go to Mars and how we can get there. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge technologies and revolutionary ideas that are driving the Industrial Revolution in rocket science, and gain a deeper understanding of the future of space exploration.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines modern rocket design, a substantial topic in the history of science and engineering
Historical focus allows learners to understand how scientific discovery progressed, which is valuable to students in any field
Aaron Ridley, a recognized instructor, teaches this course
Teaches how key advancements in science and engineering influenced historical events, which is valuable knowledge for learners in any field
Teaches the historical context of modern rocket design, which gives unique insights into a technical subject matter
Concludes with the exploration of space shuttles, space stations, space tourism, and modern developments in rocket science
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Save The History of Rocket Science to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 History of Rocket Science with these
activities:
Watch online tutorials on space exploration and rocket science
Show steps
Watching tutorials can provide additional insights and perspectives on the subject matter.
Show steps
-
Search for online tutorials on space exploration and rocket science
-
Select tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Form a study group with other students in the course
Show steps
Collaborating with peers can help you reinforce your understanding of the material and gain different perspectives.
Show steps
-
Reach out to other students in the course and form a study group
-
Schedule regular study sessions
-
Discuss the course material, share notes, and work on assignments together
Write a timeline of key events in the history of rocket science
Show steps
Creating a timeline will help you visualize the major milestones and advancements in the field.
Browse courses on
History
Show steps
-
Research key events in the history of rocket science
-
Organize the events chronologically
-
Create a visual timeline using a tool or template
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on rocket propulsion and spacecraft design
Show steps
Solving practice problems will help you apply the concepts and theories you learn in class.
Show steps
-
Find practice problems online or in textbooks
-
Attempt to solve the problems on your own
-
Check your answers and learn from your mistakes
Compile a collection of resources on rocket science and space exploration
Show steps
Creating a compilation of resources can help you organize and synthesize your learning.
Show steps
-
Search for online resources on rocket science and space exploration
-
Select resources that are relevant, informative, and engaging
-
Organize the resources into a collection using a tool or platform
Attend a workshop or conference on rocket science and space exploration
Show steps
Attending workshops and conferences can provide you with opportunities to learn from experts and network with other professionals in the field.
Show steps
-
Research upcoming workshops and conferences on rocket science and space exploration
-
Register for a workshop or conference that aligns with your interests
-
Attend the workshop or conference and participate actively
Read The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe
Show steps
This book provides a captivating account of the early days of the space race and the astronauts who risked their lives to make it a reality.
Show steps
-
Read the book
Volunteer to mentor other students who are interested in rocket science
Show steps
Mentoring others can help you reinforce your understanding of the material and develop your leadership skills.
Show steps
-
Reach out to organizations or schools that provide mentorship opportunities
-
Apply to become a mentor
-
Meet with your mentee regularly and provide guidance and support
Watch online tutorials on space exploration and rocket science
Show steps
Watching tutorials can provide additional insights and perspectives on the subject matter.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online tutorials on space exploration and rocket science
- Select tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests
- Watch the tutorials and take notes
Form a study group with other students in the course
Show steps
Collaborating with peers can help you reinforce your understanding of the material and gain different perspectives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to other students in the course and form a study group
- Schedule regular study sessions
- Discuss the course material, share notes, and work on assignments together
Write a timeline of key events in the history of rocket science
Show steps
Creating a timeline will help you visualize the major milestones and advancements in the field.
Browse courses on
History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research key events in the history of rocket science
- Organize the events chronologically
- Create a visual timeline using a tool or template
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on rocket propulsion and spacecraft design
Show steps
Solving practice problems will help you apply the concepts and theories you learn in class.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems online or in textbooks
- Attempt to solve the problems on your own
- Check your answers and learn from your mistakes
Compile a collection of resources on rocket science and space exploration
Show steps
Creating a compilation of resources can help you organize and synthesize your learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online resources on rocket science and space exploration
- Select resources that are relevant, informative, and engaging
- Organize the resources into a collection using a tool or platform
Attend a workshop or conference on rocket science and space exploration
Show steps
Attending workshops and conferences can provide you with opportunities to learn from experts and network with other professionals in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming workshops and conferences on rocket science and space exploration
- Register for a workshop or conference that aligns with your interests
- Attend the workshop or conference and participate actively
Read The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe
Show steps
This book provides a captivating account of the early days of the space race and the astronauts who risked their lives to make it a reality.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book
Volunteer to mentor other students who are interested in rocket science
Show steps
Mentoring others can help you reinforce your understanding of the material and develop your leadership skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to organizations or schools that provide mentorship opportunities
- Apply to become a mentor
- Meet with your mentee regularly and provide guidance and support
Career center
Learners who complete The History of Rocket Science will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the project management principles used in rocket science, and how to apply them to other projects.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions to meet those needs. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the business principles used in rocket science, and how to apply them to other businesses.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing software systems, including operating systems, applications, and databases. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the software systems used in rocket science, and how they can be improved to make rockets more efficient and reliable.
Consultant
Consultant
A Consultant is responsible for providing advice and guidance to clients on a variety of topics. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the principles of rocket science, and how to apply them to other fields.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems, including engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the principles of rocket science, and how they can be applied to the design and development of mechanical systems.
Computer Engineer
Computer Engineer
A Computer Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the computer systems used in rocket science, and how they can be improved to make rockets more efficient and reliable.
Materials Engineer
Materials Engineer
A Materials Engineer is responsible for developing and testing new materials for use in a variety of applications, including aerospace, automotive, and medical. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the materials used in rocket science, and how they can be improved to make rockets more efficient and reliable.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer is responsible for writing and editing technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and white papers. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the history of rocket science, and how to write and edit technical documentation about rocket science and other aerospace topics.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
An Aerospace Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace systems. This course may be helpful as it provides an in-depth overview of the history of rocket science, from the early days of World War II to the present day. This knowledge will help you better understand the complex systems that are involved in rocketry, and how to design and test them effectively.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems, including power systems, control systems, and communication systems. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the electrical systems used in rocket science, and how they can be improved to make rockets more efficient and reliable.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher is responsible for teaching students about a variety of subjects. This course may be helpful as it provides an in-depth overview of the history of rocket science, from the early days of World War II to the present day. This knowledge can help you better understand the complex systems that are involved in rocketry, and how to teach them effectively.
Science Writer
Science Writer
A Science Writer is responsible for writing and editing scientific articles, press releases, and other science-related content. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the history of rocket science, and how to write and edit scientific content about rocket science and other aerospace topics.
Program Manager
Program Manager
A Program Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing programs, which are a group of related projects. This course may be helpful as it provides an understanding of the program management principles used in rocket science, and how to apply them to other programs.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Manager
A Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance programs, and ensuring that products and services meet quality standards. This course may be useful as it provides an understanding of the importance of quality control in rocket science, and how to develop and implement effective quality assurance programs.
Systems Test Engineer
Systems Test Engineer
A Systems Test Engineer is responsible for developing, planning, and executing tests to ensure that a variety of systems are meeting requirements. This course may be useful as it provides an in-depth look at the history of rocket science, from the early days of World War II to the present day. This knowledge can help you better understand the complex systems that are involved in rocketry, and how to test them effectively.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/rnizc8/the
Reading list
We've selected seven 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 History of Rocket Science.
While this book memoir and not a textbook, it provides an excellent overview of early Soviet space exploration and is very useful for those who are interested in understanding the organizational structure and processes by which the Soviet rocket industry developed.
Save
Provides an in-depth look at the history of liquid rocket propellants, from their early development to their use in modern rockets.
Provides a technical overview of the Apollo Guidance Computer, which was the onboard computer used in the Apollo missions.
Science fiction novel that tells the story of an astronaut who is stranded on Mars.
Save
Science fiction novel that explores the themes of artificial intelligence, human evolution, and the meaning of life.
Non-fiction account of the early days of the American space program.
Memoir by Gene Kranz, who was the flight director for the Apollo 13 mission.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/rnizc8/the
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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:
- The Basics of Rocket Science
- The History of Rocket Science (viewing)
- Rocket Science in Everyday Life
Good to know
Examines modern rocket design, a substantial topic in the history of science and engineering
Historical focus allows learners to understand how scientific discovery progressed, which is valuable to students in any field
Aaron Ridley, a recognized instructor, teaches this course
Teaches how key advancements in science and engineering influenced historical events, which is valuable knowledge for learners in any field
Teaches the historical context of modern rocket design, which gives unique insights into a technical subject matter
Concludes with the exploration of space shuttles, space stations, space tourism, and modern developments in rocket science
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