BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS DEGREE IN SPACE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (HSS)

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

• The degree programme aims to strike a balance between the physical principles underlying Space Science Technology and its applications.
• Enhance knowledge in subjects covering the mechanics behind space stations, satellites, space crafts and transportation systems.
• The delivery of the degree programme is focused on teaching the use of mathematics, computing and experimentation to solve important real-world problems, and develop specialised knowledge of space science.
• Develops technical and professional skills according to individual needs and interests.
• Culminates with an in-depth individual research project in space science or space technology.

 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

For all entry pathways candidates must have at least five Ordinary Level subjects including English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject at grade C or better.

2.1 Normal Entry

Two Advanced level passes to include Mathematics (Pure Mathematics/Further Mathematics/Mechanics), Physics.

1. 2.2 Special Entry

At least a minimum of ND in a related field.

2.3 Mature Entry

See General Academic Regulations

 

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER EDUCATION

1.  Employability

Graduates with the BSc Space Science and Technology Degree will seek employment as space scientists, aerospace engineers, research scientists, astrophysicists, Remote sensing scientist, geo/bio physicist, climatologists, teachers or professors, human space exploration consultancy, meteorologists and of course, astronauts.

1. Further Studies

Master’s and doctoral studies in Space Science and Applied Physics, Cosmology and high-energy astrophysics, Astroinformatics, Human space exploration, Solar physics, Planetary surfaces, Stellar astronomy.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS131	Atomic and Nuclear Physics*	12
HSS132	Introduction to Astronomy	12
HIPI133	Mechanics*	12
HMAT131	Calculus I*	12
HCSCI13	Principles of Programming Language*	12
CS131	Communication Skills	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS133	Electronic Circuits and Devices*	12
HSS134	Introduction to Meteorology*	12
HIPI135	Waves, Oscillations, and Thermodynamics*	12
HIPI136	Electricity and Magnetism*	12
HMAT132	Linear Mathematics I*	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS231	Applied Optics and Photonics*	12
HSS232	Introduction to Space Science*	12
HSS233	Radio Wave Propagation and Antennas*	12
TCNP201	Technopreneurship*	12
GS231	Introduction to Gender Studies*	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS234	Orbital Mechanics	12
HSS235	Workshop Practice and Technology*	12
HSS236	Mathematical Modelling*	12
HSS237	Astrophysics*	12

Electives (Choose any two modules from one option):

Option 1: Satellite Technology

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS238	Satellite Launch Systems	12
HTENG233	Electromagnetic Theory	10
HSS239	Navigation and Space Instrumentation	12

Option 2: Space Weather

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS240	Solar and Stellar Astronomy	12
HSS241	Space Weather and Space-Earth Interactions	12
HTENG233	Electromagnetic Theory	10

Level 3 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS332	Work-Related Learning I*	40

Level 3 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS333	Work-Related Learning II	80

Level 4 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS431	GIS, Remote Sensing, and Spatial Analysis*	12
HSS432	Space Modelling and Software Development*	12
HSS433	Statistical Physics*	12
HIPI442	Quantum Mechanics*	12

Level 4 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HSS434	Relativity and Particle Physics	12
HSS435	Flight Dynamics and Control	12
HSS438	Dissertation*	24

Electives (Choose any two modules from any one option: Please note that if you have selected option one in level 2 electives then you must also choose option one here)

 

Option one
HSS436	Aerospace Vehicle and Space Mission Design	12
HSS437	Satellite and Space Communication systems	12
HSS439	Space Mission Design and Development	12
Option two
HSS440	Astronomical spectroscopy	12
HTENG 434	Project Management	10
HTENG439	Radar Systems	10

 

SYNOPSES

MODULE SYNOPSES

HSS131 Atomic and Nuclear Physics

This module will introduce students to basic concepts in nuclear and atomic physics, and will provide an understanding of how the principles of quantum mechanics are used to describe matter at atomic and sub-atomic level. The following concepts will be covered: description of atoms, starting by the description of the hydrogen atom and covering other topics such as the effect of magnetic fields on an atom or X-ray spectra.

 Properties of nuclei: Rutherford scattering. Size, mass and binding energy, stability and parity. Nuclear Forces: properties of the deuteron, magnetic dipole moment, spin-dependent forces* Nuclear Models: Semi-empirical mass formula M(A, Z), stability, binding energy B(A, Z)/A. Shell model, magic numbers, spin-orbit interaction, shell closure effects. Alpha and Beta decay: Energetics and stability, the positron, neutrino and anti-neutrino. Nuclear Reactions: Q-value. Fission and fusion reactions, chain reactions and nuclear reactors, nuclear weapons, solar energy and the helium cycle.

HSS132 Introduction to Astronomy

Naked-Eye Astronomy. Fundamental Astrophysical Concepts: The Nature of Energy and Matter, Space and Time. Solar Systems Galore: Our Own Solar System, and Other Planetary Systems. Stellar Structure: The Birth of Stars, and Stellar Alchemy5. Death of Stars: White Dwarfs, Neutron Stars, Black Holes. Extragalactic Astronomy: The Sea of Galaxies. Cosmology and the Early Universe. Life in the Universe

HIPI133 Mechanics

Inertia framework reference; motion in two dimensions, three dimensions. Particle dynamics, rotational dynamic systems, gravitation, mechanical oscillations, properties of matter, fluid mechanics. Special Relativity: Space-time frame reference Galilean transformation, simultaneity of event, Einstein special relativity theory and Lorentz transformation, time dilation and length contraction, velocity transformation, fluid mechanics.

HMAT131 Calculus I

The principle of mathematical induction. The real number system: Functions: Limits of functions. Continuity. Sequences: Differentiation: Derivatives of functions of a single variable. Integration: Method of substitution, integration by parts and reduction formulae, fundamental theorem of calculus

HSCI132 Principles of Programming Language

Introduction to operating System, Exploring print, building blocks, variables, input/output, operators, loops: for loops, while loop, do while loop, decisions, if statement, if else statement, else if construct switch statement, conditional statement, function, function that return a value using argument to pass data to a function, external variable, arrays and strings, pointers, structure, files and Introduction to C/C++ concepts, introduction to a database management system.

     CS131 Communication Skills
    Refer to the Communication Skills Department

    HSS133 Electronic Circuits and Devices

The module introduces students to the analysis of DC circuits (including both steady state and transient behaviour) for resistors, capacitors and inductors. Techniques for the analysis of DC resistive circuits will be introduced including serial and parallel networks, mesh and node analysis and the principle of superposition. Equations for the response of a switched voltage across a capacitor and inductor will be developed considering an R-C and R-L circuits. The module then develops the analysis of AC circuits, introducing the more powerful methods associated with the use of complex numbers. The module is also designed to introduce the most common electronic devices and their applications in small-scale electronic systems. The module is based on formal seminar/lecture sessions followed by comprehensive    practicals/tutorials, which provide an opportunity for students to gain experience in using and applying test and measurement equipment and simulators.

HSS134 Introduction to Meteorology

Definition of the atmosphere, atmospheric structure and composition, including trace gases, aerosols, dust and ash, and pollutants composition, vertical structure of the atmosphere in terms of its constituents, temperature and moisture content. Global mean seasonal patterns of atmospheric variables and their inter-relationships. The impacts of various weather and climate phenomena on society. Functions of meteorological service, service provision, key products and services, accuracy and quality of forecasts.

HIPI135 Waves, Oscillations & Thermodynamics

Oscillations and SHM; Wave motion and interaction, standing waves, sound propagation and effects; EM waves, ray model of light, the wave model of light. Temperature, thermal effects on solids, ideal gases; Kinetic theory of gases; 1st and 2nd law of thermodynamics. The Einstein model of a solid. The ideal gas. Temperature. Paramagnetism Mechanical equilibrium and pressure. Diffusive equilibrium and chemical potential. Engines and refrigerators. Free energy and chemical thermodynamics. Boltzmann- Maxwell statistics. Partition function. Elements of quantum statistics. Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distributions.

HIPI136 Electricity & Magnetism

This module introduces general concepts of electricity and magnetism to the undergraduate student. The module explores topics such as electrostatics; conductors, capacitors, and dielectrics; electric circuits; magnetic fields; and electromagnetism. Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the module. The goal of this module is to get students acquainted with the basics of electricity and magnetism and its applications.

    HMAT132 Linear Mathematics I

Complex numbers: De Moivre’s theorem polynomials and roots of polynomial equations. Matrices and determinants: solutions of simultaneous linear equations, applications to geometry and vectors. Differential equations: separable, homogeneous, exact, integrating factors, linear equation with constant coefficients.

HSS231 Applied Optics and Photonics

Introduction: Overview of light models: geometrical, electromagnetic and quantum. Basic concepts: refraction index, ray and optical length. Light propagation: rays in homogenous and heterogeneous media. Reflection and refraction laws. Fundamentals of Electromagnetic Optics: Electromagnetic waves characteristics. Electromagnetic spectrum. Plane and spherical waves. Intensity. Coherence. Polarization: Unpolarised, partially polarized and polarized lights. Types of polarized light: linear, circular and elliptical. Polarizers. Half- and quarter-wave plates (topic 4) Classical interaction of light with matter: Absorption. Chromatic dispersion. Scattering. Interferences and diffraction: Double-slit Young’s experiment. Multiple-wave interferences. Difraction phenomena. Huygens-Fresnel Principle. Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction. Fraunhofer diffraction through different apertures: rectangular and circular apertures. Diffraction gratings.  Imaging systems: Paraxial Optics. Principal planes and points. Focal planes and points. Spherical refractive surface. Mirrors. Prisms. Thin lenses. Thick lenses. Basic optical instruments. Quantum Optics: Photons. Basic processes between energy levels: absorption, spontaneous emission and stimulated emission.

    HSS232 Introduction to Space Science

This module gives an overview of the contents and dimensions of space, and the basic tools for understanding it: celestial coordinate systems, celestial mechanics and satellite orbits, solar system physics and astronomy, and emission mechanisms relevant for these fields. This knowledge forms a solid foundation for all the space science and technology modules within the programme.

Solar system: the properties of the planets and moons, solar system physics including formation, comets and asteroids

Exoplanets: classification, detection methods, state-of-the-art

Stars: The Hertzsprung-Russell (H-R) diagram; H-R diagrams of star clusters; classification of stars from their position in the H-R diagram, The dependence of stellar properties and timescales on mass, The determination of the ages of clusters, Physical conditions within stars, Nuclear fusion, Stellar evolution, Core-collapse supernovae, White dwarfs, neutron stars and black-holes

Galaxies: Classification of galaxies by their appearance, Galaxy interactions, The Milky Way, Active galaxies, Radio jets

Cosmology: The expansion of the Universe, The Cosmic Microwave Background, The Big Bang model, Measurement of the age and mass and the future evolution of the Universe

HSS233 Radio wave propagation and Antennas*

Introduction to antenna theory, Transmission Line theory related to antenna, Antenna design parameters, Antenna design parameters, Radiation integrals and auxiliary potential functions, Loop antennas, Classification of narrowband and broadband antennas, Aperture and reflector type antennas, Antenna arrays fundamentals, Micro strip antenna design, Smart antenna concept, Modes of propagation , Radio wave propagation in free space and types of waves, Propagation models 

Maxwell’s equations. Laplace and Poisson equations and their solution. Boundary conditions. Plane waves in a perfect dielectric; propagation in imperfect dielectric. Propagation in imperfect conductors, skin effect. Generalized wave equation, field distributions in rectangular waveguide. Radiation field, dipoles, radiation resistance, impedance, mutual impedance, linear arrays.

TCNP201 Technopreneurship

Introduction: Nature and importance of technopreneurship, Differences between technopreneurship and entrepreneurship; Relationship between technopreneurship and the national economy; Innovation and creativity, Qualities of an entrepreneur. Small business model and financial issues: Developing a business model, Basics of small business management, Risks and stages of funding, Sources of funding, Financial funding for growth, product valuation, How to form and register a small business in Zimbabwe. New Product development (NDP): Opportunity recognition and creation, Sources of opportunity, Screening technology opportunities, Designing your product/service: design thinking; process thinking, strategic thinking; The NPD process: idea generation, idea screening, concept testing, market strategy development, business financial analysis, prototyping, test marketing, commercialization. Developing and Protecting Intellectual Property: Concept of intellectual property, Theory behind IP protection, Intellectual Property (IP)-driven vs non-IP driven technopreneurshipTrade secrets, Copyrights, Trademarks, Patent and Trademark protection and its significance, Basics of patenting, legislation governing IP in Zimbabwe; Case studies of successful technopreneurs.

GS231 Introduction to Gender Studies 

This module will empower the students with knowledge and skills that enable them to be gender sensitive in the University, workplace and in all their social interaction. Topics covered include: understanding gender, gender analysis, gender issue in Zimbabwe, redressing gender imbalances, empowerment and strategies for creating gender responsive environment. Science and Technology development contributions by gender. Students gain insight into accounts of gender studies in Science and Technology. 

HSS234 Orbital Mechanics

Introduction to orbital mechanics, which is the basis for spacecraft mission design and is a key component of spacecraft engineering and operations. The basic principles of orbits and astrodynamics which informs the designer with options for selecting orbits, maneuvers, and mission profiles that impact the eventual spacecraft design are explored. Introduction to the laws of Kepler and Newton; universal gravitation and integrals of motion. Fundamental concepts associated with the two-body problem and conics; orbital elements. Orbital maneuvers: orbit establishment; single impulse adjustments; multiple impulse transfers including Hohmann transfers, local gravity fields and flybys, Hoelker and Silber transfers, Lambert time-of-flight theorem, three-dimensional transfers; mission design issues. Orbital perturbations including Euler-Hill equations for two-close orbiters and some navigational issues.

HSS235 Workshop Practice and Technology

The module aims at imparting knowledge and skill components in the field of basic workshop technology. It deals with different hand and machine tools required for manufacturing simple mechanical and electronic components and articles. The module also aims to further the ability to communicate information by graphical means. This will be achieved through the ability to visualise and understand spatial relationships, and the competence to select and use appropriate graphical methods for representing design concepts.

HSS236 Mathematical Modelling 

Infinite Series: Sequences of numbers and their convergence, algebra of convergent sequences, infinite series and their convergence, convergence tests for infinite series. 

Fourier series: Periodic and piecewise continuous functions, Fourier series, Fourier sine and cosine series, Fourier integrals and Laplace transform. Differential Equations: Introduction to differential equations, modelling and solution of first order differential equations, Bernoulli, Riccati and Clairaut equations, Application of first order differential equations and higher order differential equations with constant coefficients and their methods of solutions, Cauchy Euler equations, System of second order linear equations, method of indeterminate coefficient, method of variation of parameter, Second order differential equations with variable coefficient, series solution.

HSS237 Astrophysics

Physics of the Sun and Stars: blackbody radiation, the Planck, Stefan-Boltzmann and Wien laws, effective temperature, interstellar reddening; hydrogen spectral lines and Doppler effect; Hertzprung-Russell diagram; Freefall and Kelvin-Helmholtz time; nuclear fusion; basic stellar structure (hydrostatic equilibrium, equation of state); white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes. Planetary systems:  Kepler’s laws; Detection methods of extrasolar planets; search for life elsewhere; SETI. Galaxies:  Star formation and the interstellar medium; stellar populations; galaxy rotation curves, mass and dark matter; Galaxy collisions; central engines.

Cosmology: Olber’s paradox, Hubble’s Law; the age of the Universe; Evolution of the Universe: Madau diagram; Evidence for the Big Bang (blackbody radiation, nucleosynthesis); dark energy and the accelerating Universe.

HSS238 Satellite Launch Systems

Transmission channels, Linear modulation, Exponential modulation, Noise in analogue carrier wave transmission, Carrier wave systems, Base-band digital transmission, Sampling and pulse coded modulation, Band-pass digital transmission, Error control coding, Information theory, Advanced system applications: Sampling, interpolation, and aliasing, Definition and Role of layered approach, SI and TCP/IP models, Physical layer: Digital transmission Systems. Data Link layer. Local Area Networks (Aloha, slotted Aloha, CSMA), Network layer: Packet Switching and routing. 

Principles of Satellite Communication, Electromagnetic Spectrum, Interactions of Microwaves with Atmosphere, Communication Satellite System and Sub-Systems (Attitude and orbit control system), Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT and C) Power Sub-System, Communication Sub-Systems, Spacecraft Antenna, Satellite Link Design (Basic transmission theory, RF Links, Optimization of RF Link, System Noise Temperature, Noise Figure, G/T Ratio, Down/Uplink Design and Complete Link Budget for LEO, MEO and GEO Satellites), Earth Station Parameters, Base Band Formation, Multiple Access Techniques, Post-launch space operations, Virtual Ground Station Development, Special Purpose Communication Satellites (DBS, INMARSAT, VSAT, SARSAT and LEO Satellites etc.).

HTENG233 Electromagnetic Theory

Maxwell’s equations. Laplace and Poisson equations and their solution. Boundary conditions. Plane waves in a perfect dielectric; propagation in imperfect dielectric. Propagation in imperfect conductors, skin effect. Generalized wave equation, field distributions in rectangular waveguide. Radiation field, dipoles, radiation resistance, impedance, mutual impedance, linear arrays.

HSS239 Navigation and space instrumentation

Instruments and observing techniques used in solar system and astrophysical studies. Frequencies used by the different instruments from radio to gamma-rays are discussed. Different types of orbits, spacecraft, control of spacecraft, electromechanical system requirements for space-based applications, and space environment interactions with spacecraft systems. The space environment and the engineering approaches required to operate in it. The module equips the students with the knowledge of space missions design

HSS240 Solar and stellar astronomy

Introduction to the orbital mechanics, interior structure, surface features, atmosphere, and origin of the sun, planets, and solar system. Detection techniques and current census of extrasolar planets are studied as well as a dismodule on the possibility of life on other planets. Binary Systems and Stellar Parameters, The Classification of Stellar Spectra, Stellar Atmospheres. The Interiors of Stars, The Sun, The Process of Star Formation, Post-Main-Sequence Stellar Evolution, Stellar Pulsation, Supernovae, The Degenerate Remnants of Stars, Black Holes, and Close Binary Star Systems.

HSS241 Space Weather and Space-Earth Interactions

Introduction to the physical science of solar-terrestrial physics and technological impacts of space weather hazards. Concepts such as the Solar-terrestrial interactions and space weather which explores the sun, solar wind, and interplanetary magnetic field; space plasma physics and magneto- hydrodynamics; geomagnetic storms and auroral substorms; societal impacts of space weather; planetary magnetospheres. • Introduction • The Sun: Driver of Space Weather • The Earth: Impact on its Environment • Technology: Basics and Impact • SPWX Sources: Institutes & Sensors • SPWX Practice: Forecasting & Products

HSS332 Work-Related Learning I 

This year long internship allows the student to gain experience working in a professional environment and to apply knowledge gained in the first two years to acquire professional skills or competences. Students will be able to expand their professional network, convert academic knowledge into industrial skills, narrow down their potential careers and gain unforgettable life experiences.

The main objectives of the training module are:

1. To help the student to put into practice the basic experimental and theoretical skills which were learnt,
2. To provide exposure to and experience of the industrial environment.
3. To give the student an insight into the production activities of Zimbabwe’s main industries,
4. To embark on a research project under the joint supervision of a member from the department and a member of the training institution.

The Industrial attachment will be assessed jointly by the industrial supervisor and the academic supervisor as well as by written reports submitted by the student on the industrial attachment experience and the industrial project.

HSS333 Work-Related Learning II

The Industrial attachment will be assessed jointly by the industrial supervisor and the academic supervisor as well as by written reports submitted by the student on the industrial attachment experience and the industrial project.

HSS431 GIS, remote sensing and spatial analysis

The science of remote sensing and its applications in meteorology, the basic principles of how radiation is emitted, transmitted and absorbed in the Earth’s atmosphere and the techniques by which space-borne satellites can observe the chemical composition and properties of the Earth’s atmosphere and surface. The course covers various aspects of Geoinformatics such as coordinate systems and projections, spatial data models and their structure, spatial database technology, data supply for geographic information systems: digital maps, digitizing, and surveying with geodetic instruments, basic cartographic methodology, basic geodesy; basic remote sensing, thematic classification of multispectral data.

HSS432 Space Modelling and Software Development

The module provides the students with enhanced programming and software development skills with emphasis on use of HPC for computational and analysis demands associated with space data analysis. Students are equipped with knowledge and techniques on how to analyze problems and scenarios related to the different space environments in order to provide and simplify application of space technologies and exploration. Different modelling techniques applicable to space exploration and data acquisition are discussed as well model optimizing techniques

HSS433 Statistical Physics

The module treats important aspects of Statistical Mechanics, based on the fusion of two approaches: Statistical Physics/Mechanics combined with Classical Thermodynamics. Both approaches are complementary and they can enforce and enlighten each other. The covered material will be useful for all advanced Physics students because it covers important subjects related to Statistical Mechanics, which any serious Physics student should know. Given its scope, the matter will be useful for several other branches in Physics: Atomic Physics, Nuclear Physics, and Solid State Physics. The module is part of the general training in the physical sciences. Students in Chemistry may find the module useful as well.

HIPI442 Quantum mechanics

An introduction to the quantum theory, as formulated in the 1920’s and 1930’s by Born, Bohr, Schrödinger, Heisenberg, and others. Discussion s include how quantum theory arose in the face of certain discrepancies between 19th-century classical theory and experiment. The module also include equipping the students with knowledge of a set of mathematical tools needed to formulate problems in quantum mechanics, introducing methods of theoretical physics required to solve them as needed. Topics covered include Recap of wave motion, Quantum superposition and probability, Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and applications, Indeterminacy, complementarity principle, Bohr’s correspondence principle, Particles and atomic systems, Angular momentum, Bound systems. This module also covers quantum physics applications drawn from modern physics including the general formalism of quantum mechanics, harmonic oscillator, quantum mechanics in three-dimensions, angular momentum, spin, and addition of angular momentum.

HSS434 Relativity and Particle Physics

The module provides an overview of modern particle physics stressing fundamental concepts and processes: An introduction to the Standard Model and its components. Antiparticles. Symmetries and conservation laws and their significance in particle physics. Hadron-hadron interactions. The quark model including spectroscopy. Quantum Chromo Dynamics (QCD). Electromagnetic interactions – form factors. The Parton model and deep inelastic scattering – structure functions. Weak interactions including beta decay and Cabbibo- Kobayashi-Maskawa mixing. The unified electroweak interaction, W, Z and the Higgs boson. Beyond the Standard Model: the unification of strong and electroweak interaction, supersymmetry, neutrino oscillations and more.

HSS435 Flight Dynamics and Control

The module provides knowledge on the design and operations of the space vehicle. It covers topics such as Flight vehicle rigid-body equations of motion; linearization via small perturbation techniques. Trim analysis, static and dynamic stability, aerodynamic stability derivatives and control effectiveness. Vehicle transfer functions, stability augmentation, and aircraft handling qualities.

HSS438Dissertation

Provides students with opportunity to design, undertake or conduct an independent piece of research study related to their programme of study under the guidance of a supervisor who is usually a member of academic staff of the department. Runs over two semesters: Regular report backs to the departmental board by the supervisor. The project is continually assessed throughout two semesters. A student undertakes a viva for the project.

HSS436 Aerospace Vehicle and Space Mission Design

Design and fabrication of space vehicles and missions requires a wide-ranging approach including conceptual design, vehicle and missions’ simulation, budgeting and operation analysis and sustenance and maintenance practices. The module provides knowledge and skills on designing and analyzing space vehicles and missions. This involves combined use of theoretical, computational (including simulations) and experimental techniques using space design tools. Mission design will range from micro satellites to complex systems such as national missions. The module will also equip students with knowledge of aircraft and avionic system design, propulsion as well as stability and performance assessments for both civil and military sectors.

HSS437 Satellite and Space Communication systems

Overview of the issues associated with the design and provision of modern satellite communications systems. Transmission channels, Linear modulation, Exponential modulation, Noise in analogue carrier wave transmission, Carrier wave systems, Base-band digital transmission, Sampling and pulse coded modulation, Band-pass digital transmission, Error control coding, Information theory, Advanced system applications: Sampling, interpolation, and aliasing, Definition and Role of layered approach, SI and TCP/IP models, Physical layer: Digital transmission Systems. Data Link layer. Local Area Networks (Aloha, slotted Aloha, CSMA), Network layer: Packet Switching and routing. 

Principles of Satellite Communication, Electromagnetic Spectrum, Interactions of Microwaves with Atmosphere, Communication Satellite System and Sub-Systems (Attitude and orbit control system), Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TTandC) Power Sub-System, Communication Sub-Systems, Spacecraft Antenna, Satellite Link Design (Basic transmission theory, RF Links, Optimization of RF Link, System Noise Temperature, Noise Figure, G/T Ratio, Down/Uplink Design and Complete Link Budget for LEO, MEO and GEO Satellites), Earth Station Parameters, Base Band Formation, Multiple Access Techniques, Post-launch space operations, Virtual Ground Station Development, Special Purpose Communication Satellites (DBS, INMARSAT, VSAT, SARSAT and LEO Satellites etc.).

HSS439 Space Mission Design and Development

Introduction to space missions. Community science priorities, introductory and detailed science investigations. Introduction to science topics in Heliophysics, Astrophysics, and Planetary Science. Proposal science topic definition for semester mission/proposal projects. Science Traceability Matrix. Requirements definition, measurements and instrumentation. Science instrument selection and design. Spacecraft design and subsystems. Space environment consideration, Space Mission Development. Spacecraft data reduction and analysis. Mission schedule and budget development. Team roles; proposal layout, responsibilities, and writing.

HSS440 Astronomical spectroscopy

A lab-based introduction to stellar spectral classification, spectroscopic parallax measurement, orbit analysis of spectroscopic binaries, redshift measurements of galaxies and CCD imaging techniques. Students will use telescopes to obtain spectroscopic data and will use digital CCD cameras to image star clusters and nebulae.

HSS441 Project Management

Project proposal writing- types of proposals; Project definition, life cycle, and systems approach; Project scoping, work definition, and work breakdown structure (WBS); Project time estimation and scheduling using GANTT, PERT and CPM. Project costing, budgeting, and financial appraisal; Project control and management, using standard tools of cost and schedule variance analysis; project management use-case through practical, example projects; use of computers in project management, some software tools for PM e.g. MS Project; PM techniques e.g. PRINCE2.

HTENG439 Radar Systems

Basic Principles: Radar equation, Radar Cross section. CW Radar, FMCW Radar. Pulsed Radar Principles. Clutter Analysis, MTI Improvement Factor, Pulsed Doppler Radar. Tracking Radar, Angular resolution, Monopulse Technique. Detection Theory: Match Filtering, Radar Ambiguity Function. Imaging Radar: Resolution Concept, Pulse Compression. Synthetic Aperture Processing, ISAR Imaging. Probability of false alarm and Detection, Modified Radar Range Equation with Swerling Models. Ground Penetrating Radar for close sensing. Radar Tomography and Radar based Microwave Imaging. Emerging and Modern Applications of Radar Principles.