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What will I learn on this module?
This module will provide a general introduction and understanding of satellites and satellite missions. You will learn about:
General introduction and historical perspective of satellite missions
Mission Lifecycle
Satellites and their sub-systems
Orbital dynamics
The Space Environment in which satellites operate
Policies and Law related to Space Operations
Launching Satellites into orbit, including propulsion methods
For each topic you will explore the implications on satellite design and operation and use the workshop sessions to apply your new knowledge to relevant examples and problems from past and current missions. In the workshops you will also learn and apply relevant soft skill, such as project management, engineering management, and satellite mission design alongside the analysis methods required to inform the design process. This will form the basis of the assessment of a preliminary design study and a critical analysis of a satellite mission concept.
How will I learn on this module?
This module will be delivered using a mixture of lectures supported by workshops, online videos, together with directed learning and independent learning. An assignment is included to reinforce the theory provided in the lecture sessions.
Before each lecture you will be expected and encouraged to read ahead by reviewing the support material provided via eLP to support your own learning outside of timetabled hours. The lectures will cover the basics of the key concepts covered in the module, which will be reinforced in the associated workshops.
An understanding of the material covered in the lectures and reading of supportive materials provided via eLP are required for workshops. This will allow for meaningful discussions to take place during the workshops. Practical examples and analysis will be explored during workshops with active participation by students. This will involve tutor lead Q+A sessions and student to student explanation and response. A key element of learning on this module includes student led discussion of the key principles.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The module is delivered as noted in both lectures and workshops. These provide the key academic support to the module; however, around this is built several support structures.
Workshops effectively provide verbal feedback and comments throughout the session. Such comments may be generic and applicable to individual students, typically noting procedures or some technical guideline or may be more directed to the individuals learning. Online screen videos and other resources are included on the eLP platform to help you understanding of key concepts related to this module.
You are encouraged to develop your curiosity by making direct contact with the module team either via email or an open door policy of the teaching team.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
Analyse satellite mission concepts and apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering principles to ascertain the viability of missions. (AHEP4: C1, M1)
Design solutions for satellite mission problems that meet a combination of user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards (AHEP4: C5, M5)
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context and relevant legal matters into the design of a satellite mission. (C15, M15)
Apply a systems approach to the solution of satellite mission design (AHEP4: C6, M6, C9,M9,C12, M12)
Personal Values Attributes (Global/Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
Ability to convey technical information to a third party, including presentation skills both written and oral (AHEP4: C8, C16, C17, C18, M8, M17)
How will I be assessed?
Coursework (CW) worth 50%. This will be an assignment based on creating a preliminary design for a satellite mission (MLO2, 3, 4).
Presentation (PRE) worth 50%. This will be review of a Mission Concept case study with appropriate analysis of the mission (MLO1, 5)
Formative assessment using e-portal software and e-learning tests within lectures.
Feedback occurs during workshops and via the e-learning portal.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Within this module you will familiarize yourself with the basics of satellite missions and their design. This includes the satellite mission lifecycle, main sub-systems, space environment, relevant Space policies and law, and launch, propulsion, and dynamics.
The core content will be conveyed in lectures and workshops will provide you with the opportunity to refine your learning and apply it to real scenarios. The workshops will also enable you to develop key skills such as project management, engineering management, and analysis techniques.
This knowledge and skills will be assessed through a report on a satellite mission of your own design and a review of a case study satellite mission. These assessments are based on industry standard processes to give a real-world experience.
Course info
UCAS Code Z071
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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