This is an archived course. A more recent version may be available at ocw.mit.edu.

Space Propulsion

A Magneto Plasma Dynamic thruster test firing.

A Magneto Plasma Dynamic (MPD) thruster test firing at MIT's Astrovac. (Image courtesy of MIT.)

Instructor(s)

MIT Course Number

16.522

As Taught In

Spring 2004

Level

Graduate

Course Features

Course Description

Space Propulsion begins with a review of rocket propulsion fundamentals. The course then proceeds into advanced propulsion concepts, ranging from chemical to electrical engines. Propulsion system selection criteria and mission analysis are introduced. The bulk of the semester is devoted to the physics and engineering of various engine classes, including electrothermal, electrostatic and electro-magnetic. Specific topics include arcjets, ion engines, Hall thrusters and colloid thrusters.

Other OCW Versions

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Manuel Martinez-Sanchez. 16.522 Space Propulsion, Spring 2004. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology: MIT OpenCourseWare), https://ocw.mit.edu (Accessed). License: Creative Commons BY-NC-SA


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