Required course

A broad, multidisciplinary survey of human and robotic exploration of space. The course will introduce the student to the key policy, history, military, economic, management, planetary science, life science, and engineering issues that characterize todays space ventures. Emphasis is on building up the fundamental knowledge base that will form the basis for interdisciplinary analysis later in the program. While focus is on the U.S. space program, international space activities are prominently featured in terms of cooperation and competition fr the United States.

SpSt 501 is a pre-requisite/co-requisite to all other 500-level courses and must be taken at the first available opportunity.

NO TEXTBOOK REQUIRED FOR THIS COURSE

Required course

Readings, discussion and integrative analysis of past and current issues in Space Studies. Emphasis is on a case study approach to develop an interdisciplinary understanding of space programs and initiatives. An individual project will build integrative and critical analysis skills and an appreciation for the interdisciplinary approach, while a team project will engender the interdisciplinary team work typical of the real world.

Must be taken only after completing SpSt 501 and at least two other courses in the program.  Course taught by Dr. Ron Fevig and Dr. James Casler

Pre-requisite: SpSt 501

Course will be co-taught by James Casler and Ron Fevig

Required textbook:  NONE

Recommended textbook information will be posted soon.

Required course

A series of invited lectures presented by visiting lecturers and faculty.

May be repeated up to 2 credits.

Graded as pass/fail.

Textbooks: None

1-3 Credits Individual student projects designed to develop advanced knowledge in a specific area of expertise. A written report is required. Requires faculty approval prior to registration. Contact the professor whose expertise is in the field of the topic you select.

May be repeated for up to 6 credits.

Textbooks: None

The capstone course integrates, extends and applies knowledge learned in earlier Space Studies courses and reading. The major component of this course is a collaborative project inter-relating policy, technology and science. This course is required for online students who select the non-thesis option and can be taken after completing at least 21 credits in the program, or with the permission of the instructor. The course begins in the fall semester and concludes with an intensive 7 day capstone experience on the UND campus in the spring.

Even though this course extends through the spring semester, it does NOT count as a course enrollment for the spring semester. Students may be enrolled in a different course; submit a leave of absence, or register for SpSt 996 Continuing Enrollment to maintain enrollment for the semester.

Additional course fee of $110 assessed to cover Capstone Week expenses.

Pre-requisites: SpSt 501 and 502.

Textbooks: None

Students who previously have registered for all of the necessary
credits of coursework, research, Independent
Study (997), or Thesis (998), on their approved
Program of Study, but who have not completed their independent
study, or thesis, must register for 996 Continuing
Enrollment each additional semester or summer session they are
utilizing university facilities or the time of the faculty, (i.e., laboratories,
libraries, examinations, advisement, etc.). The number of credits
should be determined by the advisor to reflect the proportion of time
devoted by the student to academic study that term, with a full-time
student registering for 9 credits. Graduate Assistants must register
for at least six (6) credits which may include a combination of formal
coursework and continuing enrollment credits. Advisor verification
of the appropriateness of the number of 996 credits may be required.

After two regular semesters of 6 to 9 credits in 996 for
master’s students, and after four regular semesters for doctoral
students, a student wishing to enroll in additional 996 credits
will be required to petition the Graduate School Dean.

Continuing Enrollment (996) credits will not count toward the
requirements for the degree. All students must be enrolled for either
996 credits or other credits in the semester of graduation. Students
may register for both regular credits and 996 credits in a given term if
all other conditions have been met. Continuing Enrollment credits
may be used to define a student’s enrollment status, (i.e., part-time or
full-time). The fee for Continuing Enrollment (996) cannot be waived.

Independent study and preparation of a written report for students taking the non-thesis option in the Master's program.

An original research project approved by and completed under the supervision of a thesis committee.

Prerequisites: Graduate standing in Space Studies, completion and approval of a thesis proposal.

S/U grading only.

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Policy

This course will introduce students to the major governmental Space Programs around the world. The history, activities and future directions of the Russian/Soviet, European/ESA, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and other space programs will be explored. International collaborations between the various programs will also be studied.

Undergraduate prerequisite is SpSt 200 or consent of the instructor.

Graduate students registering for this course may require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

Instructors: Pablo de Leon; Vadim Rygalov, David Whalen

Space Studies 450: International Space

Typical Course Content

Week 1: Intro (DJW)

Week 2-4: Europe (PdL)

Week 5-7: Russia (VR)

Week 8-10: China (DJW)

Week 11-12: India (DJW)

Week 13-14: Japan (DJW)

Week 15: Other

Week 16: Wrap-up (All)

Recommended textbook: "Emerging Space Powers: The New Space Programs of Asia, the Middle East and South America" by Brian Harvey et al. Published by Springer. Paperback: ISBN-13: 978-1441908735 1st Edition

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Business

A study of the economic aspects of space activities, with analysis of the possibilities and the barriers. Key areas include launch services, satellite communications, remote sensing, microgravity materials processing, and interaction with the government. Global competition against subsidies or government-sponsored entities is examined.

Pre- or Co-requisite: SpSt 501

SPST 540 SPACE ECONOMICS AND COMMERCE

Topical Outline

Why economics?

Review of relevant economic theory

Relationships of space industry with economic environment

Economic impact of commercial space on U.S. economy

Government space budgets

Structure of selected space industries

Regulatory issues

International effects

Insurance in support of space industry

Economic analyses

Engineering economic considerations

Financial effects of quality and reliability

Cost estimation of space systems (CER)

Life cycle costing

Economics of Apollo, Faster-Better-Cheaper (FBC), Constellation

Launch costing

Investment and entrepreneurship

Economics of New Space and space tourism

Required Textbook

Updated 10/24/12

"Managerial Economics" by Christopher Thomas and S. Charles Maurice. 11th Edition published by McGraw-Hill. ISBN: 978-0078021718  Hardcover

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Business

This course investigates the management of space organizations. These include organizations that are public and private, R&D and operations, profit and non-profit.  You will learn the basics of management theory, the history of systems management, and the technical issues that must be considered in the management of space R& D operations.

Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501

SPST 541 MANAGEMENT OF SPACE ENTERPRISES

Topical Outline

Role of management

Management approaches

Leadership

Motivation

Communication

Ethics

Decision theory

Organizational structure

Organizational change

Organizational culture

Organizational behavior

Strategic decision making

Controlling and Management

Human resource management

Risk management

Technical management

Project management

Management of civil space organizations

Management of large space business

Management of small space business

Entrepreneurship

Required Textbook:

APPLIED PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR SPACE SYSTEMS by Chesley, Larson, McQuade and Menrad. Published by Learning Solutions. Paperback ISBN-13: 978-0073408859

Recommended Textbook:

THE SECRET OF APOLLO: SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT IN AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN SPACE PROGRAMS by former UND Space Studies Professor Stephen B. Johnson. Published by John Hopkins University Press. Hardcover. ISBN-13: 978-0801868986

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Policy

This course is an advanced graduate-level review of international relations theories as applied to the international implications of global commons.  The course introduces the concept of global commons, examines the theories and practices concerning management of global commons, and analyzes the global commons dealing with the problems of collective action as applied to global environmental change and the uses of outer space.

Pre-requisites: SpSt 501 and SpSt 430 or 565. Overrides possible with permission from instructor. Relevant academic background in the policy, law, science, or technology related to global environmental problems is an advantage.

Co-taught by Santhosh Seelan and Joe Vacek

No textbooks are required for this course.

Social Course; Sub-discipline: History

This course introduces students to the history of human endeavors in space. These include the development of rocketry, the influence of amateur societies and science fiction, the military development of ballistic missiles, and human and robotic spaceflight.

SpSt 551: History of the Space Age

Typical Course Outline

Required Textbooks:

THIS NEW OCEAN by William E. Burrows, 1985 Modern Library ISBN: 978-0375754852

SPACE AND THE AMERICAN IMAGINATION by Howard E. McCurdy, 2011, John Hopkins University Press, ISBN-13: 978-0801898686 (paperback)

Recommended Textbook:

THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH by Walter A. McDougall, 2008, ACLS Humanities, ISBN: 978-1597404280 (paperback)

Social Course; Sub-discipline: History

This course investigates the history of human endeavors to understand the stars, planets, and cosmos as a whole from a scientific perpective. It covers the early observations and theories of the Babylonians and Greeks through the European Scientific Revolution, and finally to the development of astrophysics and modern cosmology using space vehicles.

Prerequisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501 or consent of instructor.

Space Studies 552: History of Astronomy and Cosmology

Typical Course Outline

Required Textbook:

COSMOS: An Illustrated History of Astronomy and Cosmology by John North, University of Chicago Press, 2008.  ISBN: 978-0226594415

Social course; Sub-discipline: Policy

An introduction to the military uses of space by the United States, Russia, and other nations. The course introduces ballistic missiles, anti-ballistic missile and anti-satellite systems, space-based reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering, communications, navigation, acquisition, and military space treaties.

Pre- or co-requisite: SpSt 501

Previously offered as SpSt 555 Stragegic Implications of Space -- do not repeat.

SpST 555: Military Space

Typical Course Outline

1. Introduction
2. Post War
3. Cold War 1
4. Cold War 2
5. Sputnik to the Cuban Missile Crisis
6. Vietnam
7. Arms Race 1
8. Arms Race 2
9. Arms Limitations 1
10. Reagan
11. Arms Limitations 2
12. Gulf Wars
13. War in Space
14. Nuclear Disarmament
15. The End of the OST regime
16. The Future

Required Text:

“Toward a Theory of Space Power” by Charles D. Lutes and Peter L. Hays with Vincent A Manzo, Lisa M. Yambrick, and M. Elaine Bunn (editors). Published by  Washington, DC: National Defense University, 2011.  Available free on the web http://www.ndu.edu/press/spacepower.html

Recommended Texts:

“Beyond Horizons: A Half Century of Air Force Space Leadership”  by David N. Spires, (Washington: GPO, 1998).  Reprinted by University Press of the Pacific 2002.  ASIN: B003HKQH66 (paperback)

“Harnessing The Heavens: National Defense Through Space” by Paul G. Gillespie and Grant T. Weller (eds.)  (Chicago: Imprint, 2008) ISBN-13: 978-1879176454 (paperback)

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Policy

This course serves as a graduate-level introduction to the field of Public Policy as applied to Space Policy. The course surveys the evolution of Space Policy at several levels of analysis including context, political actors and institutions, political processes, and policy outcomes, and assesses the symbiotic relationships between policy, technology, and science.

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite: SpSt 501 or consent of instructor.

Required: REVISED 12-12-11 "John F. Kennedy & the Race to the Moon" by John M. Logsdon. 2010 Edition published by Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN:  978-0230110106 Hardcover

Also Required: "Spaceflight and the Myth of Presidential Leadership" by Roger D. Launius. 1997 Edition published by University of Illinois Press. ISBN: 0252066324 Paperback

Social course ; Sub-discipline: Business

 This course is an advanced graduate-level review of Public Administration theories as applied to the implementation of space technology programs. In this course, the political, organizational, and technical variables that affect the management processes of space organizations are examined.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 501, and SpSt 560 or SpSt 541.

This course was previously offered as SpSt 525 Public Administration and Technology Assessment of Space Technology - DO NOT REPEAT

SPST 561 PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION OF SPACE TECHNOLOGY

Topical Outline

Historical perspective

Intellectual heritage

Political heritage

Stateless origins

“Chinking in”

Rise of professional technocracy

20^th Century development

Contemporary public administration

Rational model

New Public Administration model

New Public Management model

Principles & practices of US Federal space-related organizations

Review of Federal government organization

Regulatory environment

Operations environment

Planning, Programming, & Budgeting process

Specific principals & actors

Organizational culture

Formative NASA culture

Apollo & Post-Apollo

FBC & Post-Columbia

Organizational decision-making

Challenger launch decision

Faster, Better, Cheaper philosophy

Columbia

Management of space technology

Program management

Systems management

Case study: Apollo

Case study: Space Shuttle

Case study: Constellation

TEXTBOOKS:

Required: "Theories of Public Organization" by Robert B. Denhardt. Publisher: Thomson-Wadsworth. 5th Edition. ISBN: 0-495-09706-3

Required: "Preface to Public Administration: A Search for Themes and Direction" by Richard J. Stillman II. 2nd Edition. Publisher: Chatalaine Press. ISBN: 1-57420-065-8
OUT OF PRINT--USED AVAILABLE

Social Course: Sub-discipline: Law

This course serves as a graduate-level introduction to the field of Law as applied to Space Law. The course examines the origins and evolution of the laws of outer space from the beginnings of the space age to the present. International laws governing access and use of space, and national laws regulating governmental and commercial activities in space are reviewed and analyzed.

Pre- or Co-requisite: SpSt 501 or consent of instructor

SpSt 565 Space Law

Topical Outline

Origins & Bodies of Law

General Principles of Law

Statutory Interpretation & Cannons of Construction

Airspace v. Outer Space – Legal theory

Maritime Law (Origins) and Interpretation

US Air Law

International Law

The Space Law Treaties - Outer Space Treaty of 1967    

Rescue Agreement of 1968    

Liability Convention of 1972

Liability Convention of 1972

Registration Convention of 1975

Moon Treaty of 1979

Moon Treaty of 1979

Meteorology & communications

Remote Sensing & UAS issues

Private space flight issues

Geostationary issues

Large Space Structures & Commercial Use

Commercial Use

Nuclear Power Use

Environmental Issues

UNCOPUOS & Guest Lecture

Peaceful Purposes

No textbook required for this course.  Materials will be available online.

Social course; Sub-discipline: Policy

This course will introduce students to remote sensing programs in developing countries and typical remote sensing application areas pertinent to developing countries, such as potable water, forest fires, vector diseases, environmental degradation, food security, fisheries, floods, droughts, crop pests, etc. with case studies.

Pre-requisistes: SpSt 501 or SpSt 522 or GEOG 475 or permission of the instructor.

No Textbooks required or recommended for this course.

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Law

This course focuses on the evolving laws, policies, and institutions that have long-term ramifications for Earth observations. Some topics addressed are the United Nations Principles on Remote Sensing; the United Kingdom's 1984 National Remote Sensing Policy; the Montreal Protocol; and, the U.S. Land Remote Sensing Policy Act of 1992. Ground segment institutions considered are the Landsat Ground Stations Operations Working Group and the Global Land 1-KM AVHRR Project. Remote sensing litigation that has begun to address various applications of remote sensing will also be considered. Cases include Dow vs. U.S. and EOSAT vs. NASA and NOAA.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 501

Social Course; Sub-discipline: Policy

This course will provide a first-hand knowledge of selected space centers in the U.S. and/or abroad through an organized field visit.  The field visit will be led by a space  studies faculty and will include prior preparation through readings, class seminars, lectures and written assignments.

May be repeated up to a maximum of 3 credits.

Prerequisites: SpSt 501 or SpSt 450, or SpST 574 or permission of instructor.

Graded as S/U

No textbooks required for this course.

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

A team design project to develop the requirements for a space mission. The specific mission will vary from time to time. Design teams will work on selected portions of the mission. Accompanying lectures will provide background material. 

An educational background that includes trigonometry and vector algebra is strongly recommended.

Prerequisite for undergraduates is SpSt 200 or consent of the instructor.

Graduate students registering for this course will require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

Required Textbook: "Space Mission Analysis and Design", by James R. Wertz & Wiley J. Larson, 3rd Edition, ISBN: 1-881883-10-8 Paperback

Suggested Textbook: "Understanding Space: An Introduction to Astronautics +website" by Jerry Sellers, 3rd Edition by Learning Solutions. ISBN-13: 978-0077230302 Hardcover

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

NOTE: This course was previously offered as SpSt 500 intro to Orbital Mechanics - DO NOT REPEAT

This course introduces students who have a modest background in mathematics and physics to the relevant topics and problems pertaining to the orbital motion of spacecraft.  The course gives students an ability to understand and converse, as managers and co-workers, with those individuals who are performing the oftentimes mathematically intensive computations necessary for precise orbit determination.  In addition, orbit design and its impact on the other areas of astronautical engineering are considered in this course.

Pre-requisite: MATH 105 or 107 or the equivalent.

Instructor: Dr. Ron Fevig

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

This course looks at the problems of controlling spacecraft in Earth Orbit (LEO, MEO, GEO) and in solar/planetary orbits.  The course will look at sensors, actuators, and dynamics.  Specific examples will be chosen among spin-stabilized, biased-momentum, and zero-momentum systems.  Attitude control will be the primary area of concern, but orbit control will also be addressed.  There will be a very brief introduction to classical control theory and modern control theory.

Prerequisites: MATH 166 & ENGR 202 or PHYS 251.

Instructor: Dr. David Whalen

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

This course looks at the problems of space communications in Earth Orbit (LEO, MEO, GEO) and in solar/planetary orbits.  The course will cover receivers, transmitters, and antennas.  Students will understand the constraints imposed on all of these by the space environment, cost, and constraints on spacecraft (e.g., power) and the launch vehicles available (e.g., mass).  Emphasis will be on the ability of the student to estimate link budgets.  These link budgets will address maximizing throughput and minimizing cost (e.g., power, bandwidth) by varying modulation (BPSK, QPSK, 8PSK) and coding (FEC ½, ¾, and turbo codes).

Prerequisite: MATH 166.

Instructor: Dr. David Whalen

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Human Factors

A review of the physiological effects of living in space including a discussion of current and near-term life support systems for the provision of oxygen, water, food, and radiation protection. In addition, a review will be made of the issues associated with the development of fully closed ecological life support systems, which will be essential to the long-term development of space. 

An educational background that includes algebra and probability & statistics is recommended.

Undergraduate prerequisite is SpSt 200 or consent of the instructor.

Graduate students registering for this course will require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

COURSE TOPICS

Space environments & hazards

            Space environments physics/chemistry & physiological effects

Life Support (LS) goals & requirements for human subjects in space

Primary LS elements and systems for space

            Air supply and revitalization

            Water purification technologies

            Food supplies & preservation

Environmental Control (EC) in space

            Temperature & humidity control

            Microbiology of space flight

            Space debris & physical hazards

            Radiation

Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) and space suit design principles    

Human physiology and its adaptations to space, Space Adaptation Syndrome (SAS)

            Respiratory function and oxygen demands

            Heart & blood vessels in space

            Muscular – skeletal systems

            Orientation & balance in space

            Blood & immune systems

Psychological conditions of space flight

            Artificial environments & Habitability Concept

Advanced scenarios of life support in space

            Plants in space & Closed Ecological Systems (CES) for life support

TEXTBOOKS:

Required:
1-Spaceflight Life Support and Biospherics by Peter Eckhart. Publisher: Kluwer. 1996 Edition, ISBN-13: 978-1881883043 Paperback

2-Fundamentals of Space Life Sciences by Suzanne Churchill et al. Publisher: Krieger. 1997 Edition, ISBN-13: 0894640518 Hardcover

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Applications

This course provides an introduction to observational astronomy and includes three segments:  basic observing techniques and astronomical equipment (telescopes, CCDs); visual observing and the characteristics of the night sky; astrometric and photometric observing, data reduction, and interpretations; and image processing and color imaging techniques.  Students will learn to operate a remotely controllable Internet telescope and CCD camera.  A broadband Internet connection is recommended.  Night observing is required.

Prerequisites: Physics 110; competent algebra and trigonometry skills; knowledge of fundamental calculus is helpful, but not required. SPST 420 and/or SPST 520 are recommended.

Additional course fee of $100 assessed to cover required software.

This course may also require additional software to be purchased after the class starts. Ordering instructions will be posted on the class syllabus.

Graduate students registering for this course may require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

Textbooks Required:

1-Handbook of CCD Astronomy; by Howell, 2nd Ed 2006-Cambridge Univ. Press, ISBN: 0-521-61762-6

2-To Measure the Sky: An Introduction to Observational Astronomy by Frederick R. Chromey, Cambridge University Press, ISBN: 978-0-521-74768-4

3-A Practical Guide to Lightcurve Photometry ad Analysis; by B. Warner, 2nd Ed-Springer, ISBN: 0-387-29365-5

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This course begins with a review of key concepts in the physical sciences of geology, meteorology, and oceanography to examine the coupled interactions between the land, atmosphere and oceans. Particular emphasis is placed on remote sensing techniques for global monitoring of biogeochemical processes.  The role of human activities on Earth processes and the consequences of global environmental changes are discussed. The growing use of space-based date sets and the implications of Earth Observing System technologies, including research goals and hardware requirements, are examined.

This course should be considered as part of a sequence with SpSt 435 Global Change and is best taken before 435.

Undergraduate prerequisite is SpSt 200 or consent of the instructor.

Graduate students registering for this course may require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

The current human population represents something unprecedented in the history of the world. Never before has one species had such a great impact on the environment in such a short time and continued to increase at such a rapid rate. Human activities are therefore significantly influencing the Earth's environment in many ways in addition to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Anthropogenic changes to Earth's land surfaces, oceans, coasts, and atmosphere and to biological diversity, the water cycle and biogeochemical cycles are clearly identifiable beyond natural variability. This course investigates the many facets of global change issues, and attempts to provide an up-to-date introduction to the study of the Earth's environment.

Required Textbook: Environmental Science – Earth as a Living Planet. 2009. 7^th Edition, by Daniel B. Botkin and Edward A. Keller. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN-13:978-0-470-118559

Technical Course; Sub-disclipline: Space Engineering or Management

NOTE: This course was previously offered as SpSt 570 Advanced Topics in Space Studies: Quality Engineering for the Space Industry - DO NOT REPEAT

This course addresses the principles and techniques for establishing quality goals, identification of customer needs and requirements, measurement of quality, and product/process engineering to improve system performance with a focus on the space industry.  The course covers the principles and practice of quality and reliability engineering in general and the quality assurance concepts, strategies, and tools practiced in the space industry. 

Pre-requisite: MATH 321

Instructor: Dr. James Casler

Required Textbook:

"Introduction to Statistical Quality Control" by Douglas C. Montgomery, 7th Edition. Publisher: John Wiley & Sons ISBN: 978-1-118-14681-1 (hdcvr)

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This course examines the evolution of the universe from its origin to the present:  cosmological evolution, chemical evolution, plantary evolution, biological evolution, and cultural evolution. The possibility of life in the universe elsewhere than Earth is considered.  Human changes to the Earth are placed within this context.

SpSt 501 and/or SpSt 420 are recommended as pre-requisites if student has no astronomy or planetary geology background.

Undergraduate pre-requisite is SpSt 200 or consent of the instructor.

Graduate students registering for this course may require a special permission number obtained from Bev Fetter to over-ride a missing undergraduate pre-req.

SPST 460 – Life in the Universe

Topical Outline

Introduction to Course / Overview of Topics

Why do we care? / How do we search?

Measuring the Universe

Forming Stars and Molecules

How Star Operate

How Stars Die / Releasing “star-stuff”

Galaxies and Other Large Scale Structures

The Nature of Life (as we know it)

Early History of the Solar System

Timescale of Life on Earth

The Origin of Life on Earth

History of Life on Earth

Implications for Life Elsewhere

The Limits of Life / Life in Extreme Environments

Habitats for Life beyond Earth: Venus?

Habitats for Life beyond Earth: Geology of Mars

Habitats for Life beyond Earth: Mars & Europa?

How Unique is Earth?

Searching for Other Planetary Systems

Life beyond the Solar System

Extraterrestrial Civilizations: How many? How close?

How Diverse can Civilizations be?

Interstellar Spaceflight - Warp7, Mr. Sulu

Interstellar radio, SETI and Other Searches - Lucy!!!

UFOs and Space Visitors - “U” stands for unidentified

Are we alone? / Implications for the Human Future

Review and Overview

Required Textbook: UPDATED 11-21-11  "Life in the Universe" by Jeffrey Bennett and Seth Shostak, 3rd Edition.  paperback  ISBN-10: 0-321-68767-1  ISBN-13:  978-0-321-68767-8

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

This course introduces students who have a modest background in mathematics and physics to the relevant topics and problems pertaining to the orbital motion of spacecraft.  The course gives students an ability to understand and converse, as managers and co-workers, with those individuals who are performing the oftentimes mathematically intensive computations necessary for precise orbit determination.  In addition, orbit design and its impact on the other areas of astronautical engineering are considered in this course.

Pre-requisite: MATH 105 or 107 or the equivalent.

An educational background that includes trigonometry and vector algebra is strongly recommended.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 501

Required Textbook: "Understanding Space: An Introduction to Astronautics" w/Web by Sellers, 3rd Ed-2007, ISBN-13: 978-0077230302

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

This course will guide the students through the spacecraft design and proposal process for an actual mission. In this course the students will work in teams on individual spacecraft subsystems, participate in an engineering design review, and create a document which can be submitted for funding for a small satellite project. Lectures will provide an overview of the separate spacecraft subsystems involved in a typical mission, the systems engineering approach to spacecraft development, and the grant writing process. Distance students will interact with on-campus students via conferencing software.

Prerequisite: SpSt 405 or consent of instructor. Prior vector algebra and trigonometry are strongly recommended.

Textbook:

Required: Space Mission Analysis & Design by Wertz & Larson. Published by Microcosm ISBN-13: 978-1881883104, 3rd Edition 1999

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

This course provides a working knowledge of the field of orbital mechanics including the use of appropriate mathematical and computational techniques, the analysis of professional papers in orbital mechanics, and applying the appropriate techniques to solve orbital mechanics problems.  Topics covered include orbital elements, perturbations, coordinate systems, orbit determination, and multi-body gravitational problems. 

Prerequisites: SpSt 500 and Math 266 Elementary Differential Equations or the equivalent.

Required textbook: "Orbital Mechanics" by John E. Prussing and Bruce A. Conway. 1993 edition published by Oxford University Press  ISBN-10: 0195078349   ISBN-13: 978-0195078343

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Human Factors

This course introduces the area of human performance in extreme environment, highlights differences and similarities between extreme environments, and demonstrates that lessons learned from one extreme environment can be effectively applied to others - though settings like space, mountains, or the ocean's depths, etc. pose unique characteristics, the human physiological and psychological reactions and adaptations to these extreme settings stay similar.

SPST 512 HUMAN PERFORMANCES IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS

Topical Outline

Space environments vs. Earth extreme environments
            Physics & chemistry of space environments
                    Space hazards and threats
                    Human subject performance environments in space classification
            Specifics of Operational Environments (OE): general overview
            Social-psychological environment: small groups under high stress conditions
            Space as multiple integrative stresses environment

Living & working in space: space and extreme environment stresses overview
            Human’s physiology as a response to Earth’s Biosphere environments
            Life Support (LS) approaches and technology readiness level
                     Primary Life Support (PLS): air, water, food supplies & hardware
                     Environmental control & hardware operation
                              Hypobaric & Hyperbaric environments
                              Alternating air compositions
                              Temperature & Humidity endurance
                              Environment toxicity & microbial contamination control
                              Radiation exposure limits
                             ‘Technology dependence stress’ (Psycho-physiological stresses)
                     Physiological stresses (Space Adaptation Syndrome), tolerance &
                     countermeasures
                              Respiratory function and oxygen demands
                              Heart & blood vessels in ‘normal’ environments and in space
                         Muscular &nd

REQUIRED Textbook:

1) PERFORMING IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS by Lawrence Armstrong. 2000 Edition published by Human Kinetics. ISBN-13: 978-0880118378  This book is available on-line free of charge here.

2) LIVING ALOFT: HUMAN REQUIREMENTS FOR EXTENDED SPACE FLIGHT by Connors, Harrison, and Akins. 1985 Edition by NASA. ISBN-13: 978-1410219831 (ppbk) This book is available on-line free of charge from the NASA History Office wepage found here.

RECOMMENDED textbook:

1) BOLD ENDEAVORS: LESSONS FROM POLAR AND SPACE EXPLORATION by Jack Stuster. 1996 Edition by Naval Institute Press. ISBN-13: 978-1557507495 (hrdcvr)

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Human Factors

A review of the major stresses experienced by humans on entering the new and alien environment of space. Examples will be taken from the psychological and physiological impacts experienced by U.S. and Soviet crews with emphasis on longer flights. How to avoid and/or overcome these stresses will be examined as an essential and growing need in the future development and settlement of the space frontier.

REQUIRED textbooks:

1) "Fundamentals of Space Life Sciences", by Susanne Churchill. 1997 Ediition published by Krieger Publishing. ISBN-10: 0-89464-051-8

2) "Living Aloft: Human Requirements for Extended Space Flight", by Connors, Harrison and Akins. Available for free download from NASA's History office at http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/History/SP-483/cover.htm

3) "Man-System Integration Standards" Available for free download from NASA at  http://msis.jsc.nasa.gov/

RECOMMENDED Textbook:

1) BOLD ENDEAVORS: LESSONS FROM POLAR AND SPACE EXPLORATION by Jack Stuster. 1996 Edition by Naval Institute Press. ISBN-13: 978-1557507495 (hrdcvr)

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Applications

Closed ecological systems have been suggested during the early decades of space exploration for extended life support in space operations. In reality, this principle of long-term life support mimics global bio-geochemical cycles supporting life on Earth. The course covers the multiple interactions of human/bio-regenerative life support based on physical/chemical regeneration (hybrid) life support environments. Extensive research in this area during more than five decades showed that material turnover in small closed environments becomes unstable compared to a planetary environment. Specific attention is paid to the limits of stability for closed material cycles functioning during long-term remote confined missions; and the importance of the human factor as a target link, main sensor, and main integrator and control element for the system providing significant self-sustainability under proper motivations. Advanced scenarios for space life support based on ecological and in situ resource utilization approaches are discussed.

Prerequisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501 or permission of the instructor

SPST 519 Topical Outline

Life Support (LS) in Space & Closed Ecological Systems

 Space Environment vs. Earth Biosphere

 Life support approaches classification

 ‘Closure’ as a fundamental characteristic of processes in Earth Biosphere

 Man-made Closed Ecological Systems (CES) overview

Plants in space

       Plant physiology alterations in space
       Plant growth technology & ‘horticulture’ in space
       Space greenhouses and challenges
       LS Systems Equivalent System Mass (ESM) analysis

Primary LS elements and systems for space

      Air supply and revitalization  

      Water purification technologies
      Wastes treatment technologies
      Food supplies & preservation
      Technological Readiness Level (TRL) scales

Environmental Control (EC) in space

       Temperature & humidity control
       Dust & Microbiology of space flight
       Radiation effects

Man-made CES and applications

        BIOS – 3 (Russian Federation)       
        Lunar-Mars Life Support Test Project, Bio-Plex (USA)
        Biosphere 2 (USA)
        Closed Ecological Experimental Facility, CEEF (Japan)
         ‘Bio-Homes’, space technology spin-off

Psychological conditions of space flight

         Artificial environments & ‘Habitability’ concept

Advanced scenarios of CES development in Space

          Terraforming & Para-Terraforming of extraterrestrial bodies

TEXTBOOKS

1-(Required) "Manmade Closed Ecological Systems" by Gitelson & Lisovsky, 2003 Ed by Taylor & Francis, ISBN: 0-415-29998-5

2- (Required) "Fundamentals of Space Life Sciences" by S. Churchill, 1997 Ed by Krieger, ISBN: 0-89464-051-8

3- (Recommended) “Space Life Support & Bio/Spherics” by Peter Eckart. 1996 edition published by Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht/Boston/London ISBN 1-881883-04-3 (pb)  ISBN 0-7923-3889-8 (hb)

4- (Recommended) "Space Physiology and Medicine" by Nicogossian, Hunton & Pool. 1994 Edition publushed by Lea & Febiger, A Waverly Company.   ISBN-10: 0812115953  ISBN-13: 978-0812115956

Other recommended materials: 

Video ‘Silent Running’, DVD; Universal Studios, 1971 (the time of public optimism in regard to space exploration)

" Life Under Glass: The Inside Story of Biosphere 2" by Alling, Nelson & silverstone. Published by The Biosphere Press, 1993   ISBN 1-882428-07-2 (pb) ISBN 1-882428-10-2 (hc)

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

The small bodies of the solar system are clues to its origin. All planets and larger moons have been chemically transferred, but many asteroids, meteorites and comets are apparently little modified from the time of their origin 4.5 billion years ago.  Each of these classes of objects is investigated separately, and relationships between them are examined.

Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501 or consent of instructor.

SPST 520 – Asteroids, Meteorites, Comets

Topical Outline

Introduction to Course / Overview of Topics

Basics of Mineralogy and Geochemistry

Introduction to Meteorites

Introduction to Asteroids

Introduction to Asteroids

Basics Principles of Orbits

Overview and History of Meteoritics

Chondrites

Achondrites

Iron and Stony-iron Meteorites

Asteroid Sizes, Rotations and Families

Asteroid Surface Compositions

Chondritic Parent Bodies

Achondrite Parent Bodies

Iron and Stony-Iron Parent Bodies

Diversity of Asteroids and Meteorite Parent Bodies

Delivering Meteorites from Asteroids

Gaspra, Ida, Mathilde, and Eros

Importance of Asteroids and Meteorites

Compositions of Comets

Origin and Evolution of Comets

Interplanetary Dust

Meteor Showers

Lunar and Martian Meteorites, Tektites & Impacts

Comets, Asteroids and the Origin the Solar System

Comets, Asteroids and the Origin of Life

Summary and Overview

Required Textbooks:

1) Meteorites and Their Parent Bodies (2nd Ed) by H. Y. McSween, Jr. published by Cambridge ISBN: 0-521-58751-4 paperback

2) The New Solar System (4th Ed) by Beatty, Petersen and Chaikin published by Cambridge ISBN: 0-521-64183-7 hardcover      (The pages of this book can be downloaded---somewhat awkwardly-- following instructions provided on the class website. Currently, this book is out of print but relatively inexpensive copies can be obtained from a variety of internet book dealers.)

Technical course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This course provides an in-depth review of the present state of our knowledge of Mars. Topics to be covered include: the origin and evolution of the planet, the surface geology and geological processes, the geophysical properties of the Martian interior, the origin and evolution of the Martian atmosphere, the present and past climates of Mars, the Martian moons, and the possibility of past or present life on Mars. The American and Soviet/Russian Mars exploration programs are reviewed and the course incorporates the most recent results from spacecraft missions such as Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odessey, Mars Express (ESA), and Mars Exploration Rovers (NASA). Potential future manned missions are also discussed.

Pre-requisite SpSt 220 and GEOL 101 & 102 or permission of instructor

Sample Syllabus

SPST 521 - THE PLANET MARS

Topical Outline

Introduction to Course / Overview of Topic

Mars in the Solar System / Planetary Formation and Evolution

Basics of Mineralogy and Geochemistry

Mars Exploration Program - Past, Present & Projected

Overview of Martian Surface

Planetary Volatiles & Planetary Atmospheres

Martian volatiles / Origin and Evolution of the Atmosphere

The Martian Atmosphere, Weather and Climate

Geologic Principles: Erosion and Sedimentary Deposits

Geologic Principles: Time, Stratigraphy and Morphology

Geologic Principles: Impact Process and Structures

The Southern Highlands

The Northern Plains

Geologic Principles: Volcanic Processes and Structures

Volcanism on Mars

Plate Tectonics in the Solar System: Mars and Tharsis?

Martian Canyons: Valles Marineris

Geologic Principles: Rivers and the Water Cycle

Martian Channels and Valley Networks

The Martian Polar Regions

The Hemispheric Dichotomy

Surface composition of Mars: SNC Meteorites & Landers

Surface composition of Mars: Spectroscopy & Orbiters

The Martian Moons: Phobos and Deimos

Life on Mars? Past and Present Prospects

Future Exploration of Mars

Possible Manned Missions and Human Settlements

Summary and Overview 

No textbooks required to be purchased for this course. A free online textbook will be available. Refer to the onlline classroom for details.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Applications

This course covers the basic concepts and foundations of remote sensing, a review of major Earth observing satellite and aircraft platforms, and an investigation of the flow of data from satellite to Earth, what is represents, and how to interpret it using both visual and digital image processing techniques. A field visit to the EROS Data Center in Sioux Falls may also be arranged.

This course was previously offered as SpSt 522 Satellite Information Processing - DO NOT REPEAT

No Required Textbook. Details provided in syllabus, or contact instructor.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Applications

This course covers the advanced image processing algorithms and information extraction techniques for various Earth resource applications such as landcover/land use, environmental change detection, geology, oceanography, agriculture, forestry, rangeland, water resources, urban planning, natural disaster assessment, etc.

Prerequisite: SpSt 522

Previously offered as SpSt 570, or as SpSt 523 Advanced Image Processing - DO NOT REPEAT

No textbooks for this course. Instructor will provide selected readings.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This is a multi-disciplinary, literature-intensive examination of astrobiology, which is the study of life in the universe. Students will read scientific research and review papers from a variety of disciplines including astronomy, planetary science, chemistry, biology and geology. Course goals include: developing proficiency at reading/analyzing diverse scientific papers, developing the ability to incorporate knowledge from mulitiple disciplines in the study of astrobiological research, and developing the ability to effectively write summary papers to show basic understanding of course material.

Pre-requisites: SpSt 460 and Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501

No textbook required for this course.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Space Engineering

An examination of the highly developed technological base required for the exploration and development of space. An understanding of this technology and of its impact upon humans is essential to an appreciation of many of the issues and problem areas that are and will be associated with our continuing efforts to explore and settle this new frontier. May be repeated if the topic is different.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Applications

NEW COURSE DESCRIPTION Pending Graduate School approval:

Astronomical and Spacecraft Instrumentation (3 cr) This course will concentrate on instrument design, operation, and the resulting data products generated by ground- and space-based astronomical observatories, as well as common instrumentation used in NASA scientific solar system spacecraft. Key goals for this course include gaining a solid understanding of instrumental principles of operation, the types of raw data that are generated, and the types of data reduction processes that lead to interpretable data. The course will include an investigation of different types of spectrographs and spectroscopy data products, solar instrumentation (ground- and space-based), terrestrial and Jovian spacecraft orbiter/flyby instrumentation, terrestrial planet rover and lander instrumentation, and extra-solar system astrophysical instrumentation. Students will have the opportunity to examine, reduce, and interpret select data sets. 

Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501

TWO REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS: updated 11-19-12

1) Electronic Imaging in Astronomy: Detectors and Instrumentation, 2nd edition (2008) by Ian S. McLean. Publisher: Springer.  ISBN 978-3642095320 (paperback)

2)  Remote Sensing Tools for Exploration: Observing and Interpreting the Electromagnetic Spectrum by Pamela Elizabeth Clark and Michael Lee Rilee.  Publisher:  Springer, 1^st Edition (2010)  ISBN 978-1441968296 (hardcover)

Technical Course;Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This course focuses on the inventory, accessibility, acquisition, processing and utilization of extraterrestrial resources (space resources) from celestial bodies such as the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and comets. Consideration will be given to extraterrestrial resources for in situ utilization (such as a Lunar or Martian base), for space operations (such as supporting large scale near-Earth activities or a human Mars mission), and for terrestrial markets. The course will focus on the interplay between the scientific, technical, and economic aspects of acquiring and utilizing such resources. The course will also explore some of the legal and political ramifications and limitations of claiming and recovering space resources.

Pre-requisites: SpSt 220 and SpSt 501 or SpSt 520, or permission of the instructor.  Contact Bev Fetter for a special permission number if you meet these pre-reqs. NOTE: DR. GAFFEY WILL WAIVE THE SPST 520 PRE-REQ FOR ALL GRAD STUDENTS WANTING TO TAKE THIS COURSE. IF YOU HAVE NOT COMPLETED SPST 501, CONSULT DR. GAFFEY FOR AN OVER-RIDE. SPECIAL PERMISSION IS STILL REQURED TO OVER-RIDE THE UNDERGRAD PRE-REQ OF SPST 220.

SPST 527 – Extraterrestrial Resources

Topical Outline

Introduction and Course Structure

Why consider extraterrestrial resources?

The Way the Future Was - History of Space Resources

Getting there and back - Orbital Mechanics

Inventory of Space Resources: Lunar Geology

Inventory of Space Resources: Meteorites

Inventory of Space Resources: Asteroids & NEOs

Inventory of Space Resources: Mars Geology

Inventory of Space Resources: Martian Moons

Shuttle tanks / “Dead” satellites / Space debris

Resource utilization: History as a guide to future

Demand / Markets for Space Resources

Propulsion options - Chemical / Ion / Nuclear

Propulsion options - Solar Sail / “Mass driver” / Exotic

Mining and Extracting Raw Materials – General

Mining and Extracting Space Resources by Object

Processing Space Resources – General

Case Study: Propellant production – Lunar

Case Study: Propellant production – Mars

Mars Propellant Production: Implications for Martian activities

Asteroid Space Mining - Options, Prospects and Products

Future Space Activities: Demand? / Pricing? / Where?

Infrastructure - Minimum & Optimum

Infrastructure - Minimum & optimum

Resources and Hazard Abatement

ET Resource Implementation: Social and Cultural Aspects

Summary and Review

No Textbook required for this course. Students will be directed to online readings in the course syllabus.

Technical Course; Sub-discipline: Planetary Science

This course will provide an in-depth study of the science and observations of the Sun, space weather, and the effects of the Sun on astronauts, Earth, and the space environment. Topics that will be covered include the solar photosphere and active surface phenomena such as sunspots, flares, and coronal mass ejections; the nature of the quiet Sun; the solar interior and helioseismology; space weather and the impact of solar particles on the space environment and Earth; the hazards posed to astronauts by solar eruptions; common techniques of solar observations; and a review of the primary types of solar instrumentation and the observatories that currently study the Sun. Students will be able to observe the Sun using the UND Observatory's small solar telescopes; all students will have the opportunity to analyze solar datasets to aid their understanding of the Sun.

Prerequisite: Math 165.

Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501

Required Textbooks:

FUNDAMENTALS OF SOLAR ASTRONOMY by Arvind Bhatnagar and William Livingston. 2005 by World Scientific Publishing Co. ISBN: 981-256-357-1 (ppbk); 981-238-244-5 (hdcvr)

PHYSICS OF THE SUN: A FIRST COURSE by D.J. Mullan; 1st edition published by Chapman and Hall ISBN-13: 978-1-4200-8307-1

Research articles in PDF format will be provided by the instructor.

Technical Course; V Applications

This course will discuss the science, operation and characteristics of both single- and multiple-aperture radio telescopes, which will include both theoretical and practical considerations for radio astronomical research. Course topics will include antenna characteristics, signal detection and noise, the use of Fourier Transforms in radio research, interferometry, aperture synthesis, and radio propagation of radio waves. In addition, radio science of the Sun, planets and small bodies, interstellar medium, stars, pulsars, radio galaxies, and cosmology will be reviewed in detail. Both campus and distance ed students will conduct H I (i.e., neutral hydrogen) solar observations with the UND Observatory's Small Radio Telescope (SRT) and attempt to detect active solar outbursts and compare their data with orbital X-ray data of the Sun.

Pre-requisite: Math 165

Pre-requisite/Co-requisite: SpSt 501

An introduction to a range of topics in space studies including: an overview of planetary science, stellar evolution and the history of the universe; a brief view of the history of national and international activities, an examination of the fundamentals of space flight and human activity in space, a review of some of the current problems and issues in the space arena, and a projection of the future course of space activities in the coming decades.

This is a required course for an undergraduate minor in space studies.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

Textbook - Required: National Geographic Encyclopedia of Spaceby Linda K. Glover. 2004 Edition, published by National Geographic.  ISBN-10: 0792273192; ISBN-13: 978-0792273196

Revolutionary advances have occurred in astronomy, the Earth sciences and planetary science as a result of our entry into space. This course surveys the manned and robotic space missions which have gathered data for this new view of the Universe.  This course introduces current concepts in cosmological theory as well as an overview of planetary evolution, solar system dynamical processes and physical characteristics of the planets. 

Pre-requisite: SpSt 200 or consent of instructor.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

This course introduces students to the history of human endeavors in space. These include the development of rocketry, the influence of amateur societies and science fiction, the military development of ballistic missiles, and human and robotic spaceflight.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 200 or HIST 102 or 104, or consent of the instructor.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

SpSt 270: History of the Space Age

Typical Course Outline

1.       Introduction/Space Rationale/Space History Periods

2.       Science Fiction/Exploration/Tempest

3.       Frontiers/Forbidden Planet

4.       Visionaries

5.       Melies/Aelita/FIM

6.       Pioneers

7.       Flash Gordon

8.       Rumors of War, Shape of Things to Come

9.       WW2 and the V2 (A4)

10.   Nukes

11.   Day the Earth Stood Still, Duck & Cover

12.   Space Cadets

13.   Disney/DM/Conquest

14.   ICBMs

15.   Sputnik

16.   Sputnik Declassified

17.   Launch Vehicles

18.   A Point in Time

19.   Apollo

20.   Shadow of the Moon

21.   Space Science

22.   Space Applications

23.   2001/Strangelove

24.   Shuttle

25.   Station

26.   Orphans of Apollo

27.   Globalization

28.   Mars

29.   Mars Underground

30.   Wrap-up

Items in bold are videos: mostly science fiction in the first half of the course, mostly documentaries in the second half of the course.

Required Textbook:  "Space and the American Imagination" by Howard McCurdy. 2011 Edition published by Johns Hopkins University Press, ISBN: 978-0801898686  Paperback

Recommended Textbook: "This New Ocean: The Story of the First Space Age" by William Burrows. 1999 edition published by Modern Library. ISBN: 978-0375754852  Paperback

This is a multidisciplinary course that will examine the rationales for a wide variety of space exploration and development activities.  Topics will include human space flight, space science missions, military and commercial space activities, space resource utilization, and the benefits and problems that society derives from these activities.  The socio-economic, socio-political and multi-cultural impact of space activities--- nationally and globally---will be discussed and debated with the goal of providing students with a broad perspective of the varying effects of space activities on modern society.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 200 or consent of instructor.

Textbooks - ALL REQUIRED:

1 - The American Congress, Steven S. Smith, Jason M. Roberts, Ryan J. Vander Wielen, ISBN-10: 1107654351 ISBN-13: 978-1107654358 Paperback

2 - Spaceflight and the Myth of Presidential Leadership, Roger D. Launius, Howard E. McCurdy, ISBN-10: 0252066324 | ISBN-13: 978-0252066320 Paperback

3 - Emerging Space Powers:  The New Space Programs of Asia, the Middle East and South America by Brian Harvey, Henk H. F. Smid, Theo Priard  ISBN-10: 1441908730  ISBN-13: 978-1441908735 Paperback

This course provides a broad introduction to dinosaurs and an examination of the extra-terrestrial influence that appears to have led to their extinction, and which thus redirected the evolution of life on Earth.  Each of the major dinosaur groups, (theropods such at T. rex, sauropods such as Brontosaurus (Apatosaurus),  duckbills, armored dinosaurs such as Stegosaurus, horned dinosaurs such as Triceratops, etc.) is examined as well as their cousins in the air(pterosaurs) and sea (ichthyosaurs & plesiosaurs). The course reviews our current models of their origin, evolution, lifestyles, diet, reproductive behavior, and physiology.  We examine the data and reasoning that leads to and updates these models.  The course also places the dinosaurs in the context of Earth as a geologically evolving planet.  The various theories for the dinosaur extinction will be outlined and evaluated.  Learning tools include videos (both scientific and popular), dinosaur fossils, and scale models.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

Required Textbook: Dinosaurs: A Concise Natural History by David Fastovsky and David Weishampel

Cambridge University Press (2009)

ISBN 978-0-521-71902-5 (Paperback)

An examination of the National Aeronautics ad Space Administration (NASA).  NASA was formed in 1958 out of the existing National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA) and elements from the Army and Navy--but not the Air Force--space programs.  This course will examine the technologies, the history and the politics involved in each of the NASA elements--including the one "new" center not inherited from earlier organizations: the Johnson Space Center in Houston. This course will conclude with a picture of NASA today.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 200 or consent of instructor

No Required Textbook.

Recommended Textbooks:

NASA: A History of the Civil Space Program by Roger Launius (paperback) Published by Krieger. ISBN-13: 978-0894647277

Orders of Magnitude: History of the NACA and NASA, 1915-1990
by Roger Bilstein (paperback) Published by U.S. Gov't Printing July 1989.  ISBN-13: 978-0160042591

Lecture, discussion and readings on specific topics of current interest. May be repeated for credit if the topic is different, up to a total of 6 credits.

Pre-requisite: SpSt 200 or consent of instructor.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

Directed student readings designed to develop advanced knowledge in a specific area.  A written report is required. May be repeated for a total of 6 credits. 

Pre-requisites: SpSt 200 and or consent of instructor.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

An independent study project culminating in a paper on an approved topic in Space Studies.  Requires regular meetings with the instructor. 

Pre-requisites: SpSt 200, senior standing, 15 hours of Space Studies courses, and consent of instructor.

This course is not eligible for graduate credit.