Undergraduate Courses

AE 2320 – Introduction to Orbital Mechanics

An introductory course that covers the fundamentals of space flight. Topics studied include: two-body orbital dynamics, classification of orbits, and time of flight analysis; geocentric orbits and impulsive maneuvers: orbit shaping, escape trajectories, Hohmann and non-Hohmann transfers; orbital elements in 3D; interplanetary Hohmann and generalized transfers, intercepts, flybys. 

AE 3310 – Fundamental of Navigation and Communications

This course covers methods and current technologies in the analysis, synthesis, and practice of aerospace guidance, navigation, and communications systems. Topics covered include: attitude- and position kinematics, inertial navigation systems, global satellite navigation systems, communication architectures for satellite navigation, satellite link performance parameters and design considerations, tropospheric and ionospheric effects on radio-wave propagation, least squares estimation, and the Kalman filter.

Major Qualifying Project (MQP)

Design and Analysis of a SmallSat as a Communication Relay for Venus Atmospheric Probes, 2024

This paper discusses a conceptual mission to Venus which utilizes the Lofted Environmental and Atmospheric Venus Sensors (LEAVES) to investigate the sulfur cycle and the unknown compound that absorbs near-ultraviolet light in the atmosphere. The mission uses two separate spacecraft coupled at launch, an autonomous bus, Demeter, carrying 144 LEAVES probes and a communications orbiter, Persephone, to relay data from the LEAVES to Earth. The LEAVES are estimated to be at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3, while the spacecraft consists of parts at TRL 9. The unique launch mechanism for the LEAVES is at a TRL of 1-2, and the mission meets the Concept Maturity Level (CML) requirements for a CML 4 classification.