STEM for Space Professionals
Apply mathematics and physics in space contexts while learning about NASA Systems Engineering Practices and mission planning.
Duration
10 weeks
Level
Beginner to Intermediate
Status
current
Certification
Certificate in STEM Applications for Space
Prerequisites
- High school level mathematics
- Basic understanding of physics concepts
- Interest in space applications
Learning Objectives
- Apply relevant mathematics to space mission scenarios
- Understand the physics principles governing spacecraft behavior
- Use computational tools for space mission analysis
- Apply scientific method to space engineering problems
- Interpret technical data from space systems
Instructors
- Dr. Thomas Wright, Aerospace Engineer and Educator
- Prof. Maria Gonzalez, Applied Mathematics for Space Systems
Course Overview
This course bridges the gap between theoretical STEM knowledge and practical space applications. Designed for professionals transitioning to the space sector or those seeking to strengthen their technical foundation, it provides a focused review of the mathematics, physics, and computational approaches most relevant to space systems. Through application-driven learning, you'll develop the technical confidence to engage with complex space engineering concepts.
What You'll Learn
Module 1: Applied Mathematics for Space
- Coordinate systems and transformations
- Vector calculus for orbital mechanics
- Probability and statistics for mission planning
- Numerical methods for space applications
- Matrix operations for attitude determination
Module 2: Physics of the Space Environment
- Orbital dynamics and Kepler's laws
- Spacecraft dynamics and control
- Electromagnetic principles for communications
- Thermal physics in the space environment
- Radiation effects and protection
Module 3: Data Analysis for Space Applications
- Telemetry data processing and interpretation
- Error analysis and uncertainty quantification
- Signal processing fundamentals
- Statistical analysis of space data
- Data visualization techniques
Module 4: Computational Tools for Space
- MATLAB/Python for space applications
- Simulation techniques and tools
- Numerical integration methods
- Model validation approaches
- Software tools for orbit propagation
Module 5: Systems Thinking in Space Missions
- Introduction to NASA Systems Engineering processes
- Requirements analysis using quantitative approaches
- Technical performance measures
- Trade study methodologies
- Risk assessment and management
Module 6: Practical Problem Solving
- Engineering estimation techniques
- Order-of-magnitude reasoning
- Back-of-the-envelope calculations
- Dimensional analysis
- Simplified models for complex systems
Learning Through Application
Each module incorporates practical exercises that apply STEM concepts to real space scenarios:
- Calculating orbital parameters from observational data
- Estimating link budgets for communication systems
- Modeling thermal behavior of spacecraft components
- Analyzing telemetry data from actual missions
- Developing simplified models of spacecraft subsystems
Who Should Attend
This course is particularly valuable for:
- Professionals transitioning from other industries to space
- Project managers who need stronger technical foundations
- Recent graduates entering the space workforce
- Current space professionals seeking to refresh fundamental skills
- Decision-makers who need to understand technical aspects of space systems
The course emphasizes practical applications over theoretical derivations, making complex concepts accessible while maintaining technical rigor.
Ready to Enhance Your Space Career?
Enrollment is now open for this course. Secure your place today and take the next step in your space career journey.