MENG 474 - Spaceflight Dynamics

The aims of this course are to: introduce the methods of space flight dynamics; demonstrate how these methods are applied to real space systems; introduce the use of spaceflight dynamics in space systems engineering, by developing an understanding of orbital/celestial mechanics, its analytical and mathematical principles, satellite orbits, trajectories and maneuvers, orbital perturbations, dynamics of spacecraft moving under the influence of forces common to the space flight environment, as well as an insight to spacecraft attitude dynamic and control methods. The major topics covered include: Co-ordinate Systems, Orbital Mechanics, Two Body problem, Satellite Ground Tracks, Launch Trajectory, Orbital Maneuvers, Space Environment, Orbital Perturbations, Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics and Control, Satellite Constellations, Re-entry Dynamics and Interplanetary spaceflight.

Course Outline