Space engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on the design, development, and operation of systems and technologies related to space exploration, satellite communications, and space-based research.
Space engineering involves a combination of engineering disciplines, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science, as well as a strong foundation in physics and mathematics.
Space engineering is different from other engineering fields because it requires a high level of technical expertise and specialized knowledge of the unique challenges and conditions that exist in the space environment.
These challenges include extreme temperature fluctuations, the vacuum of space, high levels of radiation, and the need to design systems that can function independently without the support of Earth-based infrastructure.
Space engineering combines multidisciplinary engineering fields to realize high-performance space systems and system components. Areas of interest include the engineering of space missions, space vehicles and instruments, sensors, actuators, mechanisms, propulsive means, vehicle control, distributed space systems, and systems engineering.
In space engineering, applying state-of-the-art technologies is daily business.
Three major areas of space engineering are:
- Spacecraft Engineering
- Space Systems
- Space Propulsion
This spacecraft engineering area deals with the design, development, construction, testing, and operation (end-to-end engineering) of space vehicles: launchers, satellites, etc., operating around Earth and other planetary bodies as well as in outer space. It addresses the engineering of the spacecraft subsystems in relation to the overall spacecraft and its life cycle.
The field of space systems focuses on the architectural development of complete space systems (including launcher selection, ground control, orbits and constellations, payloads, mission operations, etc.) needed to get a job done.
Space propulsion/rocket systems constitute a critical enabling technology for most space missions. Research projects in this field encompass the engineering of extremely miniaturized and highly integrated propulsion systems, as well as the engineering of advanced rocket stages and the associated rocket propulsion systems. Projects are typically embedded in (inter)national research activities.
Space Engineering Training Courses by Tonex
Tonex offers over a dozen courses in Space Engineering, where participants are equipped with the technical skills required to design solutions to complex problems.
Attendees will also learn to combine unique technical skills and space-based assets while utilizing the principles of systems engineering to make an impact.
Learn from real space missions, starting with initial concept design leading to hardware and software design, manufacturing, testing and in-orbit operations.
Some of our most popular Space Engineering courses include:
CubeSat Systems Engineering Workshop
Space Mission Operations Workshop
Applied Space Systems Engineering
Introduction to Human Spaceflight
Designing Space Missions and Systems
All Tonex Space Engineering courses involve 2-days of intense training.