Orbital Dynamics are the physical and mathematical principles governing the motion of all objects in space—from satellites orbiting Earth to spacecraft traveling toward the Moon and beyond.
This course introduces Newtonian gravitation, Kepler’s laws, satellite motion in cislunar space, including the three-body problem, and key elements of Einstein’s general theory of relativity. Students will learn how these invisible “rules of the road,” dictated by gravity, momentum and energy, bound how space can be accessed, used, and ultimately governed. Familiarity with fundamental calculus is helpful but not required. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with an understanding of basic orbital physics to smartly inform policy debates and decisions.
Course information
Schedule
Course number
- STIA 4409