Specialization Dynamics and control of spacecraft

Spacecraft Dynamics and Control covers three main areas: describing the motion and velocities of rigid bodies (Kinematics), developing equations of motion that predict the motion of rigid bodies given mass, momentum, and inertia (Kinetics), and finally nonlinear control systems for programming specific orientations and achieving precise goals in three-dimensional space (Control). The specialization offers students the opportunity to develop competence in these three areas through targeted content delivery, continuous reinforcement of concepts, and application in projects. The goal of the specialization is to introduce students to theories related to spacecraft dynamics and control. This includes three-dimensional description of attitude, creation of dynamic models of rotation, and development of feedback control to achieve desired attitude trajectories. Applied learning project The Capstone project integrates the analytical skills you have learned in these courses into a Mars mission concept where the attitude control of a small satellite is designed for various mission requirements. Numerical simulations are developed to test the predicted closed-loop control.