34685 - Fundamentals of Orbital Mechanics

Academic Year 2014/2015

  • Docente: Paolo Tortora
  • Credits: 6
  • SSD: ING-IND/05
  • Language: Italian
  • Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
  • Campus: Forli
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Aerospace Engineering (cod. 8263)

Learning outcomes

The student learns and knows how to independently apply subjects related to space activities. In particular, learns the basics of orbital mechanics (restricted two-body motion) and Launch Vechicle dynamics with particular reference to the ascent trajectories and the selection of launch sites. In addition, the student discusses the various types of Earth orbits, with their typical perturbations, and finally the various phases of an interplanetary mission are described.

Course contents

Foundamentals of Astrodynamics

  - Resctricted two-body problem (Keplerian orbits)

  - Orbital Perturbations (effect of J2, J22 and aerodynamic drag)

  - Orbital Maneuvers in and out of the orbital plan

  - Interplanetary Trajectories

 

Flight dynamics of launchers

  - Effects of the coordinates of the launch site on the spacercraft orbits

  - Ascent trajectories of launchers

Readings/Bibliography

1) W.J. Larson, J.R. Wertz, Space Mission Analysis and Design, Kluver, 1992

2) Course notes of the lecturer (in Italian)

Teaching methods

Lectures are mostly held by the course teacher.  In lecturing hours the subjects are presented by the course teacher, including the explicit proof of all mathematical formulas introduced and to the presentation of the methods to solve the problems given in the practicing hours. The proposed exercises require the use of pocket calculators for the solution of the mathematical end engineering problems given by the lecturer.

Assessment methods

The examination is oral and usually constists of three questions on various subjects. In the course of the examination it will be assessed the ability of the student to resolve new problems or at least to set up the correct resolutive strategy.  The assessment of such ability has a fundamental weight in the attribution of the final marks.  The student must pass in at least two of the three questions placed by the lecturer in order to pass the examination.

Teaching tools

LCD projector, overhead projector and PC are used in addition to the standard blackboard

Office hours

See the website of Paolo Tortora