Getting There and Going Beyond from Coursera

Welcome to Course 2 - Getting There and Going Beyond. If you are here, you have successfully completed Course 1 (Our Place in the Cosmos) and are ready for more. There is so much more to learn in Course 2 with 40 learning objectives spread out over 5 weeks and 12 lessons. We will cover all the ways we explore space and near space from planes to rockets to satellites and humans.

Week 1 - We will hit the trail with two lessons on Aeronautics. "Why is a aeronautics in a course about space?" you might be asking yourself. Well aeronautics is used in many aspects of space exploration. It is also how we first started our exploration by getting off the ground. Part 1 connects us with Dr. Brian Argrow, who provides the context and background of aeronautics. Part 2 brings Dr. Gijs de Boer's perspective on the applications and connections with aeronautics and remote sensing.

Week 2 - This week will have three lessons that build upon last week's discussion on aeronautics. In Near Space, Dr. Tom Woods and I will explore the science that can be conducted in the Earth's atmosphere at the fringes of space. Mr. Dave Murrow and I will discuss Launch Vehicles and how everything we do in space is dependent on getting through near space and into space on a rocket. And finally, we will discover Orbits with Dr. Steve Nerem. Everything in the cosmos is in motion and that motion can be described by orbits. Getting to space is one thing. Getting around the solar system and beyond is all about orbits.

Week 3 - Spacecraft and satellites. So much of what we know about the cosmos was discovered by one of these two vehicles. While they may seem complicated, much of what goes into designing, building, testing, and flying a spacecraft is understandable by everyone. Spacecraft Systems is broken up into three parts. Part 1, we will discuss, the mission design process and systems engineering approach with three guests. David Ferguson, JB Young, and Dr. Nick Bradley. Part 2 will focus on the power, structures, and thermal subsystems as well as mission operations with our guests: Paul Anderson, Kamron Medina, Bruce Davis, Emily Brisnehan, and Kathy Schimmels. And finally Part 3, where we will explore the propulsion and computer subsystems and the methods for testing all the spacecraft systems with Dr. Jeff Ganley, Dr. Lee Jasper, Dr. Adam Pender, Jesse Austin, and Kyle Kemble.

Week 4 - This week (and next) we shift focus from space exploration with spacecraft to space exploration with humans. Astronauts have played a vital role in the exploration of the cosmos and have advantages over robotic mission in certain areas. Human Exploration is broken into four parts. In this week, we will cover parts 1 and 2. In Part 1, Dr. Allie Anderson sets the stage for what it takes to have a human in space. In Part 2, we will talk with Astronaut Jim Voss and discuss what it was like to be in space on his five trips there.

Week 5 - We will continue our lessons on Human Exploration from Week 4 with two more parts. Part 3 will be with Astronaut Joe Tanner and Part 4 will be Astronaut Rick Hieb. Both will add their perspectives to what it is like to be in space as a human and comment on where humanity should explore next. For those of you counting, that is three astronauts in one course. Pretty awesome huh?

So please consider enrolling in course 2 and together we will continue to pull back the curtain on the cosmos together making the unknown, known. Let's continue our journey together in finding your pathway to space.

What's inside

Syllabus

Aeronautics - Part 1

Chris and Dr. Brian Argrow (CUB) discuss a personal perspective of aeronautics, the emergence of automation and drones, and how these technologies are expanding the capabilities of Earth-observation systems. [CUB = University of Colorado Boulder]

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches the basics of aeronautics, which is standard in the space industry

Taught by Chris Koehler, who is recognized for their work in space exploration

Examines space exploration, which is highly relevant in academia

Develops knowledge and skills in space exploration, which are core skills for working within the industry

Covers unique perspectives and ideas that may add color to other topics and subjects

Taught by astronauts, who offer a unique perspective on human space exploration

Reviews summary

Comprehensive space exploration journey

According to students, this course offers a deep dive into space exploration, building expertly upon foundational knowledge from Course 1. Learners consistently praise the breadth of topics covered, from aeronautics and launch vehicles to spacecraft systems and extensive modules on human exploration. A standout feature for many is the direct engagement with a diverse panel of industry experts and multiple real-life astronauts, who provide invaluable practical insights and personal accounts. The course structure, with its clear learning objectives and progressive weekly lessons, facilitates a structured learning experience, allowing students to systematically understand how we 'get there and go beyond'.

Clear lesson structure and learning objectives.

"The 5-week, 12-lesson structure made it easy to follow along."

"The learning objectives for each week were well-defined and helped guide my study."

"I liked the clear progression from one topic to the next."

Progresses knowledge from previous course, for deeper learning.

"This course perfectly extended the concepts from 'Our Place in the Cosmos'."

"It's clearly designed for those who have completed Course 1 and are ready for more advanced topics."

"I found it a logical and rewarding next step in my space studies."

Wide range of topics in space and near-space exploration.

"I appreciated how the course moved from aeronautics to orbits, then spacecraft, and finally human exploration."

"It covers everything from how rockets work to the challenges humans face in space."

"The detailed breakdown of spacecraft systems was surprisingly accessible and informative."

Features numerous real-world experts and astronauts.

"The opportunities to hear from actual astronauts like Jim Voss and Joe Tanner were incredibly insightful."

"I really valued the input from industry professionals from Lockheed Martin and SpaceX."

"Dr. Brian Argrow and Dr. Gijs de Boer provided excellent context on aeronautics."

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 Getting There and Going Beyond with these activities:

Attend a local astronomy club meeting

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Attending local astronomy events provides opportunities to connect with other space enthusiasts and learn from guest speakers

Browse courses on Astronomy

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Find a local astronomy club or society
Attend a meeting and participate in discussions

Draw and label a basic planetary system

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This simple exercise helps reinforce the basics of planetary science and strengthens spatial reasoning skills

Browse courses on Planets

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Draw a circle to represent the Sun
Draw smaller circles around the Sun to represent the planets
Label each planet with its name

Explore NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory website

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This website provides a wealth of resources on space exploration, including technical papers, videos, and interactive simulations

Browse courses on Nasa

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Visit the 'Missions' section to learn about current and past space missions
Explore the 'Technology' section to discover cutting-edge space technologies

Three other activities

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Solve orbital mechanics problems

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Regular practice with orbital mechanics problems is essential for developing a strong understanding of spacecraft motion

Browse courses on Orbital Mechanics

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Practice using the vis-viva equation to calculate orbital velocities
Solve problems involving Hohmann transfer orbits
Calculate the effects of gravitational perturbations on spacecraft trajectories

Read 'Rocket Propulsion Elements'

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This comprehensive text provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of propulsion while incorporating up-to-date information on the latest advancements, making it highly relevant for this course

View Rocket Propulsion Elements on Amazon

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Read the chapters on solid, liquid, and hybrid propulsion systems
Review the sections on launch vehicles, upper stages, and orbit insertion

Design a spacecraft for a lunar mission

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This hands-on activity allows you to apply the concepts of spacecraft systems engineering and mission design learned in the course

Browse courses on Spacecraft Design

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Determine the mission objectives and constraints
Select and justify the spacecraft propulsion system
Design the spacecraft structure and subsystems

Career center

Learners who complete Getting There and Going Beyond will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Astronaut

An Astronaut is a person who travels into space. They may be involved in a variety of activities, such as conducting scientific research, repairing satellites, or building new space stations. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become an Astronaut, as it provides a basic overview of human space exploration.

See salaries and explore the career path for Astronaut

Mission Specialist

A Mission Specialist is a member of a space crew who is responsible for conducting scientific experiments and operating the spacecraft's systems. They may also be responsible for performing spacewalks to repair or maintain the spacecraft. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Mission Specialist, as it provides a basic overview of human space exploration.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mission Specialist

Remote Sensing Specialist

A Remote Sensing Specialist is a scientist who uses satellite images and other data to study the Earth's surface. They may be involved in a variety of activities, such as monitoring deforestation, tracking weather patterns, or identifying potential mineral deposits. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Remote Sensing Specialist, as it includes a unit on the use of drones and other aircraft for remote sensing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Remote Sensing Specialist

Planetary Scientist

A Planetary Scientist is a scientist who studies the planets and moons of the solar system. They may be involved in a variety of activities, such as studying the geology of planets, the atmospheres of planets, or the potential for life on other planets. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Planetary Scientist, as it provides a basic overview of the solar system and the launch vehicles used to send spacecraft to other planets.

See salaries and explore the career path for Planetary Scientist

Rocket Scientist

A Rocket Scientist is a scientist who is responsible for the design and development of rockets. They may work on a variety of rockets, such as launch vehicles, space probes, and military missiles. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Rocket Scientist, as it provides a basic overview of the field of rocket science and the launch vehicles used to send spacecraft into space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Rocket Scientist

Atmospheric Scientist

An Atmospheric Scientist is a scientist who studies the Earth's atmosphere. They may be involved in a variety of activities, such as studying air pollution, climate change, or the effects of the sun on the Earth's atmosphere. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Atmospheric Scientist, as it includes a unit on the use of balloons and other aircraft to study the atmosphere.

See salaries and explore the career path for Atmospheric Scientist

Spacecraft Operator

A Spacecraft Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operation of spacecraft. They monitor the spacecraft's systems, make sure that it is functioning properly, and take corrective action if necessary. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Spacecraft Operator, as it provides a basic overview of spacecraft systems and the launch vehicles used to send them into space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Spacecraft Operator

Satellite Systems Engineer

A Satellite Systems Engineer is a specialist who designs, develops, tests, and operates satellite systems. They are responsible for ensuring that these systems meet the needs of their users and that they are reliable and cost-effective. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Satellite Systems Engineer, as it provides a basic overview of spacecraft systems and the launch vehicles used to send them into space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Satellite Systems Engineer

Spacecraft Technician

A Spacecraft Technician is a technician who is responsible for the maintenance and repair of spacecraft. They may work on a variety of spacecraft, such as satellites, space probes, and space shuttles. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Spacecraft Technician, as it provides a basic overview of spacecraft systems and the launch vehicles used to send them into space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Spacecraft Technician

Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is a professional who is responsible for the design and development of complex systems. They may work on a variety of projects, such as designing new aircraft, spacecraft, or medical devices. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Systems Engineer, as it provides a basic overview of the systems engineering process.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Project Manager

A Project Manager is a professional who is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. They may work on a variety of projects, such as building new bridges, developing new software, or launching new products. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Project Manager, as it provides a basic overview of the project management process.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Aerospace Engineer

An Aerospace Engineer is a professional who may work with aircraft, satellites, or spacecraft. They are typically involved in the design and testing of these vehicles, and they may also work on the development of new technologies for use in the aerospace industry. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Aerospace Engineer, as it provides a basic overview of the field and includes a unit on the launch vehicles used to send spacecraft into space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is a writer who specializes in writing about technical topics. They may write for a variety of audiences, such as engineers, scientists, or software developers. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Technical Writer, as it provides a basic overview of the field of science and technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Science Writer

A Science Writer is a writer who specializes in writing about science and technology. They may write for a variety of audiences, such as the general public, students, or other scientists. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Science Writer, as it provides a basic overview of the field of science and technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Science Teacher

A Science Teacher is a teacher who specializes in teaching science. They may teach at a variety of levels, such as elementary school, middle school, or high school. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Science Teacher, as it provides a basic overview of the field of science and technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Teacher