Space Propulsion I

 

Content

In the lecture Space Propulsion I an introduction into the physical and technical basics of rocket propulsion is given. The requirements for the propulsion system to bring a payload into orbit and the laws of motion of a rocket are derived. The technology of liquid rocket propulsion, which is used both for main and upper stage motors of launchers as well as for orbital and attitude control thrusters, is the focus of the lecture. The special aspects of liquid fuel handling, fuel injection, combustion chamber technology and combustion chamber wall cooling are discussed. The lecture Space Propulsion I concludes with an introduction to test bench technology, which is required in development and qualification programs of main stage engines.

 

Topics

• propulsion requirements to reach orbits
• liquid propellant rocket motors
• engine cycles
• nozzle expansion
• fuel injection
• thrust chambers
• combustion chamber wall cooling
• turbomachinery
• gas generators and pre-burners
• solid rocket propulsion
• hybrid rocket propulsion
• satellites and orbital thrusters
• rocket engine testing
• excursion to DLR's European Test Centre for Rocket Propulsion in Lampoldshausen