Master of Science in Space Studies

The objective of the M.S. program is to provide graduate students, who have that developed a high level of knowledge in the field of human space exploration, with expertise in specific aspects of space studies, space settlements, space systems,R&D in space science, and excellence in writing and oral communication. M.S. graduate will possess a strong foundation on which they can be highly successful in science-related positions in government, industry, and other institutions, or carry out high quality research at the PhD level. Graduates of the program go on to become the future stewards of their discipline. They will generate knowledge and contribute to the future of space exploration.

The M.S. in Space Studies program guides students through the challenges of space exploration. The program provides opportunities for those interested in space engineering, science, policy and ethics related to human space settlement. Students examine key methods and strategies for human spaceflight, planetary exploration, commercial and scientific aspects of space exploration, mission planning and design, remote sensing satellites, astronomical instrumentation, robotics, human factors, risk management and other technologies to enable the development of space settlements.

ISS 510: Topics in Human Factors (3 credits)

This course surveys the impact of human factors on crewed missions, challenges of continuous operational support for long-duration spaceflight, and approaches for analysis and interpretation of human factors data. Students will assess the participation of humans in space exploration and the abilities to perform physically and psychologically for extended periods in harsh environments, with unique gravitation and radiation characteristics. Human factors and human performance issues in general applications will be explored, topics may include: cognitive engineering and human-centered design principles applicable to life-critical systems, addressing human-centered automation, human workload, cognitive modeling, situational awareness, risk taking and applied user experience design and evaluation.

ISS 520: Living and Working in Space (3 credits)

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of systems engineering and their particular application to the development of space systems to sustains humans living and working in space. Student will be introduced to the key elements comprising space systems across the mission design life cycle, from launch to in-space operations. Topics may include: fundamentals on astrodynamics, requirements analysis, trade studies, concept definition, interface definition, system synthesis, and engineering design, power systems, communications, command and data handling, thermal management, attitude control, mechanical configuration, structures, as well as techniques and analysis methods for remote sensing applications, risk assessment and mitigation planning. Students will be asked to explore, in depth, various advanced areas of space systems engineering challenges and share information with each other in online discussions.

ISS 545: Independent Study – Space Studies (3 credits)

This course provides for the independent study of a current topic in space studies designed to encourage students to conduct research. Students will carry out independent library research, explore experimental work, prepare a written report and make a presentation to other students in the course of the research plan and preliminary results. An independent study course is intended to foster initiative in students by supporting them to address their own learning needs related to their thesis research or research in general, and extends a student’s learning beyond the available prescribed and elective courses.

ISS 549: Research Project - Special Studies in Space Studies (3 credits)

This special study option enables students to undertake specific projects in space studies. The topic of the special study will be determined in consultation with a faculty member and the individual student. The project may be theoretical and/or experimental and can be selected from a range of topics related to the course as suggested by teaching staff, your employer or even focused on your own area of interest. Students are responsible for making appropriate arrangements with faculty member prior to registration for the course.

ISS 597: Thesis I (Space Studies) (3 credits)

For M.S. Degree, Thesis-based. Research studies in Space Studies. Students will actively engage in the research process, write the thesis and be examined on the thesis. The research may be on any topic, subject to approval and availability of faculty supervision.

ISS 598: Thesis II (Space Studies) (3 credits)

For M.S. Degree, Thesis-Based. Research studies in Space Studies. Students will actively engage in the research process, write the thesis and be examined on the thesis. The research may be on any topic, subject to approval and availability of faculty supervision. Prerequisite: ISS 597