MECH 6251
Space Flight Mechanics and Propulsion Systems
Winter 2022-2023 · Space Flight Dynamics and Propulsion
Topics
- Space propulsion system classification
- Rocket fundamentals
- Ideal rocket design
- Orbital mechanics
- Chemical propellant performance analysis
- Solid, liquid, and hybrid propellant rocket motors
- Propellants and combustion
- Advanced space propulsion systems
Readings
- George P. Sutton and Oscar Biblarz, Rocket Propulsion Elements, any edition, Wiley.
- W. F. Phillips, Mechanics of Flight, Wiley, 2004; additional reference, any edition accepted.
- J. E. Prussing and B. A. Conway, Orbital Mechanics, Oxford University Press, 1993; additional reference, any edition accepted.
- R. W. Humble, G. N. Henry, and W. J. Larson, Space Propulsion Analysis and Design, McGraw-Hill, 1995; additional reference, any edition accepted.
- A critical review of one journal paper is required for graduate students; the paper is not identified in the outline.
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026–2027
- Syllabus or course outline ↗Winter 2022-2023
- Shared AERO 485 / MECH 6251 outline. The source explicitly states that no textbook is required. Sutton and Biblarz is recommended; the other books are additional references. A separate newer Winter 2026 outline is used for AERO 485.