Aerospace Satellite Engineering MSc at Northumbria University, Newcastle

What will I learn on this module?

This module introduces the principles of operation and design of satellite power systems, focusing on energy generation, storage, protection, and energy management schemes. It includes sizing guidelines for energy generation and storage systems to ensure reliability and efficiency. You will gain an understanding of power systems and microgrid structures, along with the principles of reliability and efficiency. Given that satellite Power Systems rely heavily on solar energy and advanced power electronics for energy conversion, the module also provides an introduction to these key components.

POWER SYSTEMS and MICROGRIDS (40%):

This section explores the principles of electric power systems and their operation, the fundamentals of microgrid structures—including satellite-based microgrids—and design considerations for reliability, efficiency, and scalability. It also addresses energy management schemes, such as load balancing and fault protection.

SOLAR ENERGY SOURCES (20%):

This section provides an overview of solar energy systems and their components, the principles of photovoltaic (PV) energy generation in space environments, challenges and solutions for solar energy utilisation in satellites, and the integration of solar energy into microgrid systems.

POWER ELECTRONICS (20%):

This section covers the fundamentals of power electronics and their applications in microgrids, the operation of power converters (DC-DC and DC-AC) for energy conversion, an introduction to pulse width modulation (PWM) control techniques, and the role of power electronics in efficient energy conversion for satellite systems.

SIZING ENERGY GENERATION AND STORAGE (20%):

This section focuses on guidelines for sizing solar panels and energy storage systems for satellites, estimating energy needs based on satellite missions and operational profiles, and selecting and integrating battery technologies for space applications.

You will develop research and written communication skills through a group project report and enhance your presentation skills via a group presentation. working in teams will develop project management skills by coordinating your tasks and responsibilities with your teammates. Specific tasks will be allocated to each member to ensure the project is completed within the required timeframe.

How will I learn on this module?

The module is delivered through a combination of lectures, problem-based learning in seminars, laboratory workshops, directed learning and independent learning. You will be provided with lecture notes, technical reports and articles via the e-learning portal. Seminars will provide a platform to discuss within the class a range of issues relating to the space microgrid (design and operation). Practical workshops in the laboratory will provide you with hands-on experience in operating solar power systems and power electronics converters.

You will gain practical experience in conducting research, analysing results, and presenting findings in both written and oral formats. The seminar sessions and group project work are specifically designed to help you build confidence in delivering technical presentations and producing professional reports.

As part of the project, students will work together to enhance their understanding of photovoltaic systems and power converters. This knowledge will be developed through Laboratory -based activities conducted in groups. Students are expected to integrate their laboratory findings into the project report, demonstrating their practical understanding of power converters and PV systems and reflecting on how these components contribute to the design and operation of space microgrids. Additionally, students are encouraged to investigate the possibility of demonstrating the project - or parts of the project - using laboratory setups where feasible.

You will be inspired to explore space microgrids individually and by conducting an assigned group project to extend your knowledge and understanding in a wider context of the design and applications of various aspects related to the space microgrid.
The module is assessed by a group-based project work (50%), including a written group report (30%) and a group presentation (20%), and individual lab-based coursework in the form of an assignment (50%), for which you will provide a written report. The students are required to justify their contribution to the group project work. Feedback will be provided individually for both the report and the presentation. This feedback will focus on constructive advice to enhance your skills. Examples of research projects and real case studies, including published journal papers and simulations, will also be presented in class and uploaded to Blackboard.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

The module is delivered through lectures, seminars, and lab-based workshops, forming the core academic support. During workshops, lab tutors provide verbal feedback, which may include general technical guidance applicable to all students or more personalised advice to address individual learning needs. Blackboard is utilised effectively to provide access to lecture content, seminar exercises, coursework, and links to the reading list, ensuring comprehensive support.

To further develop your research, writing, and presentation skills, you will receive academic support for preparing your group project report and presentation. Workshops and seminars will include guidance on structuring reports, conducting literature reviews, and delivering effective presentations.

In addition to these sessions, you can contact the module team directly, usually via email, for further clarifications or support. This allows for the arrangement of ad-hoc individual or group discussions to address specific problems or concerns. You will also be referred to supporting resources, including texts, multimedia, and high-impact research publications, accessible through the e-learning portal and highlighted in lectures and seminars.

Individual advice and feedback will be provided on your assessments. The knowledge and skills gained in this module will significantly enhance your employability and career prospects in aerospace, renewable energy, and power systems engineering.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

1.Understand the fundamental theory and operating principles of power systems, space microgrids and energy management techniques.,

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

2. Design power systems for space applications considering the satellite missions, operational profiles, and the requirements for reliability (AHEP4: C1, C12, C14, M12, M14)

3. Perform and evaluate lab results from simulation and test equipment, writing technical reports on key findings. (AHEP4: C3)

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

4. Develop your ability to both lead and work effectively as part of a team, recognising the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion. (AHEP 4 C11, C16)

5. Communicate technical and non-technical information about your project by written report and oral presentation (AHEP4 C17)

How will I be assessed?

The module will be assessed through a group-based project, comprising a group presentation and a group report.

This assessment consists of a group presentation (20%) and a group report (80%) , both of which contribute to the overall module mark. The project will provide students with a hands-on opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world problems related to space microgrids and power systems.

Group Report (80%):
The report, with a maximum word count of 3000 words, will include the following sections: project background and motivation, literature review, proposed methodology and solution, results with discussions, and conclusions. Each student will be assigned responsibility for specific tasks corresponding to these sections, ensuring individual contributions are clearly identifiable. 50% of this mark will be allocated to group work, with the remaining 50% allocated to each team members individual contribution.

Group Presentation (20%):
The oral presentation will summarise the key aspects of the project, including results and the contribution of each group member. The presentation will emphasise the integration of theoretical and practical insights, including findings from the laboratory-based tasks. Students must clearly highlight their individual contributions during the presentation. 50% of the marks will be allocated to the group presentation and 50% will be allocated to individual contributions and reflections.

Group Structure and EDI:
Each group will consist of five students, with allocations considering EDI principles (e.g., gender, ethnicity, and nationality).

Feedback:
Formative feedback will be provided during laboratory sessions, seminar sessions, and in-class exercises in an interactive manner, engaging students in active learning. Feedback on the group report and presentation will be available via Blackboard, providing students with constructive advice to enhance their skills and understanding.

This assessment corresponds to learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module delves into the cutting-edge principles behind designing and operating electric power systems for satellite-based microgrids, offering a unique opportunity to explore solar energy generation, advanced energy storage, and state-of-the-art power electronics tailored for space applications.

Through research-rich learning, you will engage with real-world challenges, utilising advanced tools and laboratories in power systems engineering. Our teaching approach combines simulations and case studies to ensure a hands-on understanding of energy management and system reliability. Assessment will consist of a team project. The collaborative team project will develop your skills in project management and problem-solving. This module equips you with essential knowledge and transferable skills for careers in aerospace, renewable energy, and power systems engineering.