Rocket Science for Everyone

This course is an intuitive introduction to rocket science in our everyday lives. Modern life increasingly depends on technology provided by Earth-orbiting satellites, from detailed weather predictions to broad-band internet and GPS. How are satellites launched into orbit and how do they work once they get there? Why are rockets used to get into orbit and how are they different from airplanes? This introductory course is aimed at a wide non-technical audience and is appropriate for all ages.

• Introduction
• This course is intended to be an intuitive introduction to rocket science in our everyday lives. This module will motivate and outline the course.
• Orbits
• Where do satellites orbit? In this module, we will explore what it means to be in orbit around the Earth and define the three major regions where most satellites orbit.
• Rockets
• How do satellites get into orbit? In this module, we will explore why rockets are needed to launch satellites to orbit and how rockets work.
• Payloads
• What is sent into orbit? We will explore how satellites work and breakdown different satellite components.
• Wrap-Up
• Why do satellites go into orbit? We will wrap up the course by diving into 3 specific satellite missions.