99256 - Launchers and Re-entry

Learning outcomes

During the course, the student learns how to model and analyze launch vehicles’ components and subsystems, and their dynamics and ascent and re-entry reference trajectory. In addition, the student acquires the fundamentals of guidance, navigation and control algorithms applied to ascent and re-entry trajectories, and the needed navigation sensors and control actuators.

Course contents

The course is structured in the main topics listed here below:

1.Launcher Vehicle Requirements

2.Launchers System Elements and Subsystems

3.Dynamics of 6 DOF motion;

4.Ascent trajectory design and Optimum Trajectory

5.Guidance Navigation and Control System 

6.Navigation Sensors: Modelling and Algorithms

7.Guidance Schemes and Algorithms

8.Control Actuators: Modelling and Control Algorithms

9.Re-entry

Readings/Bibliography

Griffin, Space Vehicle Design

Curtis, Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students

Cornellisse, Rocket propulsion and spaceflight dynamics

Sutton, Rocket Propulsion elements

Tewari, Atmospheric and Space Flight Dynamics

Tewari, Automatic Control of Atmospheric and Space Flight Vehicles

Falangas, Performances, Evaluation and Design of Flight Vehicle Control System

Teaching methods

The course is structured in theoretical and practical lessons. Practical lessons foresee /but are not limited) to prepare matlab scripts to verify and consolidate the theoretical concepts  

Assessment methods

- A continuous assessment via a dedicated project prepared in groups

- A Final Exam

Teaching tools

- Slides provided for each lessons

- Matlab scripts

- Video materials

- Use of an inertial measurement unit

- Practical works making use of real data

Office hours

See the website of Emanuele Di Sotto