Program Overview

Program Overview

The SPACE RESOURCES FUNDAMENTALS program, denoted as SPRS501, is a comprehensive course that delves into the fundamentals of the space resources field. This 3.0 semester hour course is offered over an 8-week online period, spanning two semesters (I, II).

Course Description

The program provides an in-depth overview of the current knowledge of available resources in the Solar System, extraction and utilization systems under development, economic and technical feasibility studies, legal and policy issues, and space exploration architectures that may be enabled by utilizing extraterrestrial resources in the near future. The primary objective of the course is to build broad knowledge and develop confidence in problem-solving within the space resources field.

Prerequisites

To enroll in this program, students are required to have a working knowledge of physical sciences, engineering fields, or economics at an advanced undergraduate level. Additionally, basic numerical analysis skills using a programming language or spreadsheet calculations are necessary.

Course Learning Outcomes

The program is designed to achieve the following learning outcomes:

• Students will demonstrate knowledge of space resource exploration, resource availability, and technologies associated with their recovery, extraction, processing, and utilization.
• Students will exhibit understanding of current technological, economic, and policy challenges in space resources.
• Students will develop the ability to evaluate quantitatively and design a space-resource technology plan.

Program Structure

The course is structured as an online program, allowing for flexible learning over an 8-week period. This format enables students to engage with the material at their own pace, while still benefiting from a comprehensive and structured learning experience.