MAE 4540

Propulsion of Spacecraft

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

This course provides the contextual and physical framework to understand and design space propulsion devices for orbiting spacecraft and satellite systems. An introduction to the basic principles of propulsion and performance metrics in the context of space missions are presented. Key physics underlying the operation of propulsion devices are covered. Specifically, the design and performance of ion engines, Hall thrusters, electrospray thrusters, and emerging propulsion concepts are covered.

Prerequisites REF-FA25/Corequisites REF-FA25 Prerequisite or corequisite: undergraduate-level coursework in thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and orbital mechanics. Corequisites: None.

Last 4 terms offered (None)

Outcomes REF-FA25

• Students will be conversant across the range of propulsion options for space missions.
• Students will be able to describe the physics underlying their operation and performance limits.
• Students will be able to use their knowledge of propulsion physics and mission context to create or evaluate new designs.

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