Rocket Science

All it takes is 60-seconds to learn more about this first-year course taught by Professor Tonnis ter Veldhuis in physics.

Course snapshot: This course covers standard material such as Newton’s laws, conservation of energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum, oscillations and orbital dynamics, but with a strong focus on applying these basic physics principles to rocket propulsion and flight. 

NASA and more: In the process, we will explore the dynamics of past and planned space agency missions designed to investigate asteroids, planets and their moons, and comets. 

Fun fact: Instead of a conventional lab, this course includes a hands-on, semester-long project where you design, simulate, build, and launch your own high-power rockets.

What else will I do in class? Other coursework includes regular problem sets, exams, short papers, and a research paper.