Course Catalogue

Aerospace Design Project 2 ENG2002

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Engineering
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

The course involves the conceptual design of a partially-reusable space launch system. This Aerospace Design Project work is done in groups of typically 5-6 students. The first part of the work consists of a detailed analysis of the performance of example launch systems as defined defined in an assignment. The next step involves applying this insights gained from this assignment into defining an initial concept design. In the final part of the project, a selected concept is worked out in detail along with computer aided drawing/design (CAD).

 

Timetable

tbd

Requirements of Entry

Mandatory Entry Requirements

None

Recommended Entry Requirements

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

40% Written Assignment (15% individual logbook/peer review, 25% group performance)

40% Report: Group report (15% individual contribution/peer review, 25% group contribution)

20% Oral Assessment & Presentation: Group Presentation

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

The aims of this course are to:

■ provide inisight into the design and performance analysis of space launchers

■ provide an exercise in applying CAD in a conceptual design context

■ provide the experience of working on a project in a group environment;

■ provide the opportunity for report preparation and the development of oral presentation skills;

■ encourage the discipline required for accurate record keeping;

■ allow the student to perform an in depth investigation of a design problem relevant to the contemporary Aerospace Engineer;

■ encourage independent thought and the application of analytical skills to an unfamiliar area;

■ introduce basic research techniques.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

 

■ conduct a performance analysis of multi-stage space launcher;

■ assess the impact of making part of the launch system re-usable on the improved sustainability of launch systems through re-use of stages by performing independent basic research;

■ Understand the importance of the choice of propellants in terms of performance and environmental impact;

■ analyse different routes to achieving to partial re-usability from example (proposed) launcher designs from a wide range of countries, e.g. US, Japan, China, as well as European Space Agency member states;

■ draw an engineering system using CAD;

■ present detailed components assemblies and projections using CAD;

■ work successfully with his/her colleagues;

■ demonstrate good communication skills;

■ produce a well written report;

■ deliver an effective oral presentation;

■ keep an accurate record of their work in a log book.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions