This course covers fundamental concepts of air and space propulsion including the physical mechanisms of thrust creation and the parameters used to characterize propulsion system performance. Topics include in-space propulsion, launch systems, propellers, and air-breathing engine cycles. Specific technologies we will discuss include cold-gas thrusters, chemical (solid, liquid, and hybrid) rockets, electric propulsion, solar sails, ramjets and scramjets, turbojets and turbofans. Prerequisites: AA 100, ME 30, and ME 70 (or equivalent).
3 units · Letter (ABCD/NP)
This course covers fundamental concepts of air and space propulsion including the physical mechanisms of thrust creation and the parameters used to characterize propulsion system performance. Topics include in-space propulsion, launch systems, propellers, and air-breathing engine cycles. Specific technologies we will discuss include cold-gas thrusters, chemical (solid, liquid, and hybrid) rockets, electric propulsion, solar sails, ramjets and scramjets, turbojets and turbofans. Prerequisites: AA 100, ME 30, and ME 70 (or equivalent).
Offered in Spring 2026 at Stanford University.