Module overview
This module will provide students with an insight into the advantages of collaboration within Europe for the promotion of Space Science. The mechanism for the selection of missions and their subsequent development will be illustrated using a number of topical examples.
Students will participate in two group-based mission design studies which will simulate the European mission selection process in the context of high energy astronomy.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Science aims and techniques for gamma-ray astronomy
- Science aims and techniques for soft X-ray astronomy
- Spacecraft design and the planning and implementation of space missions
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Develop skills in scientific essay-writing
- Design of a system against multiple constraints - trade-offs and compromises.
- Make a presentation as a team
- Work in a team-based environment
Disciplinary Specific Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Gain an understanding of how the European Space Science Programme is organised and funded.
- In high energy astronomy, appreciate the rationale for the inclusion of the particular suite of instruments and be able to justify the choice of the orbit.
Syllabus
- European space missions within the ESA framework
- Historical high-energy astronomy
- X-ray and gamma-ray telescope design
- Constraints on operations of space telescopes
Learning and Teaching
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 4 |
| Wider reading or practice | 55 |
| Demonstration | 20 |
| Fieldwork | 50 |
| Completion of assessment task | 83 |
| Total study time | 212 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Students must obtain a pass mark in each component. Some components may be referred in the same year; field trip component can only be referred in following year. Elective referrals are not possible for this module.
The one-week field trip component takes place within the Easter break, at the premises of the University of La Laguna, Tenerife. Students must be available to travel for this component.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Field-trip based project | 35% |
| Final report/ Presentation | 40% |
| Essay | 25% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final report/ Presentation | 40% |
| Field-trip based project | 35% |
| Essay | 25% |