AE3815: Spacecraft Rotational Mechanics - NPS Online
Spacecraft Rotational Mechanics
Course #AE3815
Est.imated Completion Time: 3 months
POC: NPS Online Support
Overview
Fundamentals of vector and tensor algebra. Rigid shape orientation and its parametrization, Euler's theorem, Direction Cosine Matrix and Rotation Matrix, Orientation Quaternion, Modified Rodriguez Parameters. Change of coordinates for vector and tensors. Rigid shape orientation differential kinematics, angular velocity, Darboux equation. Rigid body spacecraft rotational dynamics: angular momentum, inertia tensor and its transformations, Euler's rotational motion equations, solutions of the Euler's equation in significant cases, spin stabilization, energy-sink analysis. Modeling of environmental torque acting on an orbiting spacecraft: gravity gradient, aerodynamic torque, solar pressure torque. During the two hours per week of laboratory as well as the homework's the students build up sequentially a full software simulator of spacecraft rotational mechanics to be used in subsequent classes.
Included in degrees & certificates
- 299
Prerequisites
- MA2121

Application Deadlines
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08 Jan 2024
Spring Quarter applications due
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01 Apr 2024
Summer Quarter applications due
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08 Jul 2024
Fall Quarter applications due
Academic Calendar
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12 Dec 2023 – 14 Dec 2023
Fall Quarter final examinations
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15 Dec 2023
Fall Quarter graduation
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18 Dec 2023 – 05 Jan 2024
Winter break
See NPS Academic Calendar for more dates.