AA 103: Air and Space Propulsion

Course Description

This course covers fundamental concepts of air and space propulsion including the physical mechanisms of thrust creation and the parameters used to characterize propulsion system performance. Topics include in-space propulsion, launch systems, propellers, and air-breathing engine cycles. Specific technologies we will discuss include cold-gas thrusters, chemical (solid, liquid, and hybrid) rockets, electric propulsion, solar sails, ramjets and scramjets, turbojets and turbofans. Prerequisites: AA 100, ME 30, and ME 70 (or equivalent).