Course Title: Space Exploration
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Space Exploration
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
PHYS2182 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2020, Sem 2 2021, Sem 2 2022, Sem 2 2023, Sem 2 2024, Sem 2 2025 |
Course Coordinator: Brett Carter
Course Coordinator Phone: -
Course Coordinator Email: brett.carter@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment, by email
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
Assumed Knowledge
To successfully complete this course, you are expected to have capabilities consistent with the completion of VCE Mathematics (Specialist or Methods) at a Year 12 level.
Course Description
Building on basic knowledge of the solar system, this course will take a closer look at the terrestrial planets and how they differ from the giant planets that orbit our Sun. We will introduce the different spacecraft that have explored a wide range of astronomical bodies and the science behind their missions. The course will include a large component based on human spaceflight missions including the effects of space on the human body, the documentation and planning required to conduct a mission in space and some of the spacecraft used for crewed missions.
This course will enable you to better understand the role of science and technology in exploring space, gain an understanding of the scientific process and recognise the importance of multidisciplinary teams for solving largescale technological challenges
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):
BP330P23 - Bachelor of Space Science
PLO 1 Apply a broad and coherent knowledge of scientific theories, principles, concepts and practices, relevant to the field of space science and technology with multi-disciplinary collaboration
PLO 2 Analyse and critically examine scientific evidence using methods, technical skills, tools and emerging technologies in a range of scientific activities.
PLO 4 Communicate, report and reflect on scientific findings, to diverse audiences utilising a variety of formats, employing integrity and culturally safe practices.
BP330 - Bachelor of Space Science
PLO 1.1 Understanding science and engineering - You will demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and engineering fundamentals and an ability to apply them in practice.
PLO 1.2 Understanding science and engineering - You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and relevance of science and engineering in the field of space science and technology.
PLO 1.3 Understanding science and engineering - You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and importance of evidence in the continuous evolution of scientific knowledge.
PLO 2.1 Knowledge capability - You will have broad knowledge in space science and technology with deep knowledge in its core concepts.
PLO 4.1 Communication - You will be able to communicate the solution to a problem or the results of a scientific investigation using effective oral, written and presentation skills.
PLO 5.1 Personal and professional responsibility - You will develop a capacity for independent and self-directed work.
PLO 5.2 Personal and professional responsibility - You will work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.
PLO 5.3 Personal and professional responsibility - You will develop an ability to work collaboratively.
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Critique components of the solar system using data derived from space mission analysis.
- Discriminate between human spaceflight terminology when interpreting or communicating scientific information.
- Critique spaceflight mission documents in response to specific operational scenarios.
- Dispute popular urban myths about human spaceflight using evidence-based scientific reasoning.
- Design 3-D spaceflight components using relevant computer-aided design software.
Overview of Learning Activities
You will be actively engaged in a range of learning activities such as lectorials, tutorials, practicals, laboratories, seminars, project work, class discussion, individual and group activities. Delivery may be face to face, online or a mix of both.
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.
Overview of Learning Resources
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
Weekly learning resources are set up and available in Canvas.
A list of recommended learning resources will be provided by your lecturer, which may include books, journal articles and web resources. You will also be expected to seek further resources relevant to the focus of your own learning.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.
Overview of Assessment
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1: Online Tests
Weighting 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1-4
Assessment Task 2: Group Work
Weighting 15%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1-3
Assessment Task 3: Skills and Capabilities Assignment
Weighting 40%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1-4
Assessment Task 4: Computer Assignment
Weighting 15%
This assessment task supports CLO 5
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.