Space Vehicle Propulsion Systems

课程简介

/ Indicative Syllabus Introduction to propulsion: Air-breathing engines and rockets, applications of rocket propulsion Fundamentals of thermodynamics and compressible flows: Mass, momentum and energy conservation laws; First Law and second law of Thermodynamics; Ideal gas law; Entropy; Isentropic processes; Stagnation properties; Shock waves; Nozzle flows. Fundamentals of rocket propulsion: Thrust; Exhaust Velocity; Energy and Efficiencies; Multiple Propulsion Systems; Typical Performance Values; Variable Thrust. Liquid Propellant Rocket Engine: Types of Propellants; Tanks; Feed Systems; Gas Pressure Feed Systems; Tank Pressurisation; Turbopump Feed Systems and Engine Cycles; Rocket Engines for Maneuvering, Orbit Adjustments, or Attitude Control; Engine -- 1 of 3 -- 2 Families; Valves and Pipelines; Engine Support Structure; Liquid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability Solid Propellant Rocket Motor: Basic Relations and Propellant Burning Rate; Performance Issues; Propellant Grain and Grain Configuration; Propellant Grain Stress and Strain; Attitude Control and Side Manoeuvres with Solid Propellant Rocket Motors; Solid Propellants; Solid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability; Solid Rocket Motor Components and Design Hybrid Propellants Rocket Propulsion: Applications and Propellants; Design Example; Combustion Instability Electric Propulsion: Ideal Flight Performance; Electrothermal Thrusters; Nonthermal Electrical Thrusters; Optimum Flight Performance; Mission Applications; Electric Space-Power Supplies and Power-Conditioning Other Space Propulsion Systems: Nuclear Propulsion; Solar Sail Propulsion; Propellantless Propulsion (e.g., Space Elevator, Momentum Wheels)

目标

To equip students with an understanding of advanced thermodynamics and compressible flows, as well as their practical application in contemporary space vehicle propulsion systems, with a particular focus on rocketry.

先修要求

/ Co-requisite/ Exclusion Nil

Teaching Pattern

Methodology The teaching and learning methods include lectures, mini-project and homework assignments. Technical/practical examples and problems will be raised and discussed in class. Project is designed to evaluate the space propulsion systems. Teaching/Learning Methodology Outcomes a b c d Lecture ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Mini-project ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Homework assignments ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓