Course content

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the systems engineering process in complex systems, with a particular emphasis on space-related technologies such as satellites and their applications. Key topics include stakeholder analysis, requirements definition and analysis, concept development, trade-space exploration and concept selection, system architecture, system integration and interface management, verification and validation, and commissioning and operational phases.

To effectively apply systems engineering principles to satellite technology, the course also introduces key fundamentals of satellite systems. This includes an overview of satellite components, orbital mechanics, and various application areas such as communication, remote sensing, and navigation, along with their respective payloads.

Additionally, the course covers core systems engineering concepts specific to space projects, including the life cycle of a space mission, relevant engineering standards, documentation produced during each design phase, engineering models, and assembly, integration, and verification (AIV).

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

Upon successful completion of the course, the candidate will be able to:

• Demonstrate a solid understanding of the core principles of systems engineering
• Apply systems engineering principles across different domains and evolving project contexts.
• Explain the mission life cycle of complex systems, particularly space missions.
• Identify and understand space and ground segments within a space project.
• Recognize and apply key technical studies and budget development processes relevant to space missions.
• Use structured processes to evaluate design alternatives, balancing performance with constraints such as cost, risk, and schedule

Skills

Upon completing the course, the candidate will be able to:

• Apply systems engineering methodologies to formulate and solve complex problems.
• Apply appropriate systems engineering tools and methodologies across different phases of a project.
• Apply theoretical knowledge of orbital mechanics and mission scenarios using simulation software.

General Competence

Upon completing the course, the candidate will be able to:

• Communicate effectively and present solutions, analyses, and conclusions clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Approach problems with a holistic mindset, considering technical, operational, and organizational aspects.
• Make informed decisions and evaluate alternatives
• Understand the societal and environmental impact of engineering decisions
• Continuously evaluate and improve one's own engineering approach and methodology.

Learning methods and activities

The course combines lectures, project work, and laboratory exercises to provide a hands-on understanding of systems engineering in satellite technology. Laboratory sessions cover key technical topics such as orbital mechanics, coverage analysis, and scenario development.

Students will engage in a comprehensive project that provides practical experience with the early phases of system development.

Specific conditions

Course materials

The recommended textbooks are

• NASA Systems Engineering Handbook
• Space Mission Engineering: The New SMAD
• Systems Engineering Fundamentals (DOD). 2001
• Spacecraft Systems Engineering (2011). Peter Fortescue, Graham Swinerd, and John Stark