Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Satellites and Space Debris
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
GEOM2172 |
City Campus |
Postgraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2024 |
Course Coordinator: Dr Brett Carter
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 0356
Course Coordinator Email: brett.carter@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment, by email
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
None
Course Description
This course provides a detailed overview of artificial objects orbiting the Earth, namely satellites, and the problematic consequence of satellite launches, space debris. Topics covered include the history and present status of the common orbital regimes around the Earth, what satellites are up there and how we use them, particularly the Global Navigation Satellite Systems. We will also review the techniques used for tracking the ever-increasing number of objects being launched. The course will introduce orbital mechanics and cover some of the complications associated with predicting the future locations of the thousands and thousands of satellites and space debris in orbit.
This course will provide you with a detailed understanding of some of the technical challenges posed by decades of human activity in Earth orbit and the associated long-term sustainability of this increasingly accessible environment.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):
BP330 Bachelor of Space Science
1.2 You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and relevance of science and engineering in the field of space science and technology.
2.1 You will have broad knowledge in space science and technology with deep knowledge in its core concepts.
5.1 You will develop a capacity for independent and self-directed work.
5.2 You will work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.
5.3 You will develop an ability to work collaboratively.
MC265 Master of Geospatial Science
1.1 Describe the fundamental and applied scientific knowledge that underpins the geospatial sciences.
2.2 Proficiently perform computations in two and three dimensions.
3.1 Design and implement creative solutions to complex problems.
3.2 Interpret and critically analyse results and make informed judgments on the appropriateness of solutions.
3.3 Apply critical and analytical skills in a scientific and professional manner.
4.1 Communicate effectively by means of oral, written and graphical presentations to peers and a wider audience
5.1 Appreciate the environmental, social, legal and international aspects of actions and decisions in the geospatial sciences.
5.2 Demonstrate a clear understanding of professional expectations and ethical requirements.
6.1 Be self-motivated and personally responsible for your actions and learning.
GC187 Graduate Certificate of Geospatial Science
1.1 Describe the fundamental and applied scientific knowledge that underpins the geospatial sciences.
3.1 Interpret and critically analyse results and make informed judgments on the appropriateness of solutions.
3.2 Apply critical and analytical skills in a scientific and professional manner
4.1 Communicate effectively by means of oral, written and graphical presentations to peers and a wider audience
5.1 Appreciate the environmental, social, legal and international aspects of actions and decisions in the geospatial sciences.
5.2 Demonstrate a clear understanding of professional expectations and ethical requirements.
6.1 Be self-motivated and personally responsible for your actions and learning.
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe past and present human activity in space and how this has benefited society.
- Describe the current techniques and capabilities for tracking space objects.
- Apply elementary orbital mechanics and describe further complications in predicting the future locations of objects in space.
- Apply the tools available to responsibly plan future satellite missions.
Overview of Learning Activities
The learning activities in this course will include:
- lectorials where material will be presented and explained, and the subject will be illustrated with demonstrations and examples.
- group exercises and interactive activities that reinforce the importance of clear scientific communication.
- private study, working through the theory as presented in course material, available texts and notes.
- online assignments designed to probe an understanding of presented concepts, and to give feedback on student progress and understanding.
You will be actively engaged in a range of learning activities such as lectorials, tutorials, practicals, laboratories, seminars, project work, class discussion, individual and group activities. Delivery may be face to face, online or a mix of both.
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.
Overview of Learning Resources
By participating in this course, you will be expected to download a copy of the course material from Canvas and have access to the library and internet for research and/or video resources. A list of useful website links and library resources will be provided.
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal
Overview of Assessment
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1: Assignments
Weighting 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1-4
Assessment Task 2: Groupwork
Weighting 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 2-4
Assessment Task 3: Skills & Capability Assessments
Weighting 40%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1-4
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.