Lecture

Orbiter Structure + Thermal Protection System

This module covers the Orbiter's structure and its Thermal Protection System (TPS). Students will explore:

  • The materials used in construction
  • How the TPS protects the Orbiter during re-entry
  • Design considerations for weight and durability
  • Case studies of TPS failures and lessons learned

Understanding these elements is vital for grasping the safety measures implemented in the shuttle's design.


Course Lectures
  • This module explores the historical context that led to the development of the Space Shuttle. Students will learn about key milestones in space exploration leading up to the shuttle program.

    Topics covered include:

    • The early days of space flight
    • The influence of the Apollo program
    • International collaboration and competition
    • The technological advancements that paved the way for the shuttle
  • Space Shuttle History
    Aaron Cohen

    This module delves into the comprehensive history of the Space Shuttle program, highlighting its inception and evolution over the decades. Students will explore:

    • The vision behind the shuttle's design
    • Key missions and their impact on space science
    • The role of NASA and other agencies
    • Challenges faced during the program's lifespan
  • This module focuses on the intricate design of the Orbiter sub-systems. Students will learn about the various components that make up the Orbiter, including:

    • Structural design elements
    • Thermal protection systems
    • Electrical and avionics systems
    • Propulsion and power systems

    Understanding these sub-systems is crucial for grasping the overall functionality of the shuttle.

  • This module examines the decision-making process behind the construction of the Space Shuttle. Students will analyze:

    • The political and economic factors influencing the decision
    • Technological needs and capabilities at the time
    • Public and private sector involvement
    • Comparisons with alternative space vehicles

    This understanding is essential for comprehending how design and operational choices impact program success.

  • This module covers the Orbiter's structure and its Thermal Protection System (TPS). Students will explore:

    • The materials used in construction
    • How the TPS protects the Orbiter during re-entry
    • Design considerations for weight and durability
    • Case studies of TPS failures and lessons learned

    Understanding these elements is vital for grasping the safety measures implemented in the shuttle's design.

  • This module provides an in-depth look at the propulsion systems of the Space Shuttle, particularly the Main Engines. Students will investigate:

    • The engineering behind the shuttle's main engines
    • Fuel types and their properties
    • Performance metrics and efficiencies
    • Comparisons with other propulsion systems in aerospace

    Knowledge of propulsion is critical for understanding the shuttle's launch capabilities and overall mission success.

  • This module focuses on aerodynamics, ranging from subsonic to hypersonic flight regimes. Students will cover:

    • Fundamental aerodynamic principles
    • Flow characteristics at different speeds
    • Effects of atmospheric conditions on flight
    • Design implications for shuttle performance

    Understanding these principles is essential for optimizing the shuttle's flight path and overall efficiency.

  • This module examines the landing and mechanical systems of the Space Shuttle, including:

    • Landing gear design and functionality
    • Mechanical systems that support landing operations
    • Safety protocols and redundancy measures
    • Real-world landing scenarios and outcomes

    Students will learn how these systems work together to ensure safe landings and the shuttle's reusability.

  • This module covers the various systems used for Orbital Maneuvering, Reaction Control, fuel cells, Auxiliary Power Units, and hydraulic systems. Students will learn about:

    • Functionality and importance of OMS and RCS
    • Fuel cell technology in space
    • Hydraulic systems and their role in shuttle operations
    • Integration of these systems for mission success

    Understanding these systems is critical for managing the shuttle's capabilities during flight.

  • This module discusses the relationship between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Space Shuttle program. Topics include:

    • The role of the DoD in space exploration
    • Collaborative missions and objectives
    • Technological advancements influenced by military needs
    • Impact of defense strategies on shuttle design

    Students will gain insight into how military interests have shaped space exploration efforts.

  • This module covers the use of subsystems as a function of different flight phases. Students will explore:

    • Subsystem functionality during launch, orbit, and landing
    • Case studies on subsystem performance
    • Design considerations for various flight phases
    • Impact of subsystem failures on mission outcomes

    Understanding subsystem functionality is key to optimizing shuttle operations.

  • This module focuses on aerothermodynamics, emphasizing the interaction between aerodynamic and thermal phenomena during shuttle flight. Students will study:

    • The principles of heat transfer in flight
    • Effects of speed and altitude on thermal dynamics
    • Design strategies for thermal protection
    • Real-world examples of aerothermodynamic challenges

    A solid grasp of aerothermodynamics is essential for ensuring the shuttle's safety during re-entry.

  • This module investigates the Environmental Control Systems (ECS) on the Space Shuttle, which are critical for maintaining a livable environment for astronauts. Topics include:

    • Air circulation and filtration systems
    • Temperature and humidity control
    • Waste management solutions
    • Emergency protocols for environmental failures

    Students will learn how ECS contributes to mission success and astronaut safety.

  • This module covers ground operations involved in launching the Space Shuttle. Students will examine:

    • Pre-launch checklists and procedures
    • Integration of shuttle with launch vehicles
    • Roles of various teams during ground operations
    • Lessons learned from past launches to improve future operations

    Understanding ground operations is crucial for ensuring successful shuttle launches.

  • Space Shuttle Accidents
    Sheila Widnall

    This module examines the Space Shuttle accidents, focusing on the causes and implications for future missions. Students will analyze:

    • The Challenger disaster and its aftermath
    • The Columbia tragedy and lessons learned
    • Safety improvements made post-accidents
    • The impact of accidents on public perception and policy

    This analysis is critical for understanding the importance of safety in aerospace engineering.

  • This module delves into Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) systems used during Space Shuttle missions. Key areas of focus include:

    • GNC system architecture and components
    • Navigation techniques employed in shuttle missions
    • Guidance algorithms and their applications
    • Control strategies for maintaining flight stability

    Understanding GNC is essential for ensuring accurate and safe shuttle operations throughout various mission phases.

  • Mission Control 1
    Chris Kraft

    This module focuses on the operations of Mission Control during shuttle launches and missions. Students will learn about:

    • The role of Mission Control in managing shuttle operations
    • Communication protocols between the shuttle and ground
    • Real-time decision-making and crisis management
    • Case studies of notable missions and their challenges

    A comprehensive understanding of Mission Control operations is vital for ensuring successful shuttle missions.

  • Mission Control 2
    Wayne Hale

    This module continues the exploration of Mission Control operations, delving deeper into specific missions and their unique challenges. Key topics include:

    • Analysis of mission timelines and contingencies
    • Coordination among various control teams
    • Technological tools used in mission management
    • Lessons learned from mission successes and failures

    Students will develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in managing space missions.

  • This module investigates the design process as it relates to the Space Shuttle, highlighting the iterative nature of aerospace engineering. Topics covered include:

    • Key design phases from concept to finalization
    • The role of testing and validation in the design process
    • Collaboration between engineering teams
    • Impact of design decisions on overall shuttle performance

    A solid understanding of the design process is crucial for developing effective aerospace systems.

  • This module covers the use of Extravehicular Activity (EVA) and robotics on the Space Shuttle, focusing on their significance in missions. Key areas include:

    • Types of EVAs conducted during shuttle missions
    • Robotic systems and their applications
    • Training procedures for astronauts
    • Case studies of successful EVAs and robotic operations

    Understanding EVA and robotics is essential for comprehending the full scope of shuttle operations and capabilities.

  • This module explores the systems engineering principles applied specifically to Space Shuttle payloads. Students will learn about:

    • The comprehensive lifecycle of payload systems from conception to deployment.
    • Integration and testing processes essential for operational success.
    • Collaboration between various engineering disciplines to ensure safety and effectiveness.
    • Real-world examples showcasing challenges faced during Space Shuttle missions.

    By the end of this module, students will have a deeper understanding of how systems engineering frameworks are applied to complex aerospace projects.

  • This module covers the intricacies of test flying the Space Shuttle, emphasizing the critical stages of flight testing. Key topics include:

    • The objectives and phases of flight testing.
    • Safety protocols and risk management in high-stakes environments.
    • Data collection and analysis during test flights.
    • Lessons learned from past test flights to improve future missions.

    Students will engage in discussions and case studies that elucidate the complexities and importance of thorough testing before operational missions.