Space Propulsion & Spaceship Design: A System Perspective

Master modern spacecraft engineering with this in-depth space propulsion system design guide. Covering everything from fundamental physics to advanced propulsion technologies and full spacecraft systems integration, this book is ideal for aerospace engineers, students, and space enthusiasts looking to understand how propulsion and design shape future space missions.

What You’ll Learn

• Principles of classical and electric propulsion systems
• Thermodynamic and fluid dynamic foundations of propulsion
• Design considerations for chemical, ion, and nuclear propulsion
• Systems engineering approaches for integrating propulsion with spacecraft design
• Mission architecture: interplanetary travel and deep space exploration
• Trade-offs in propulsion selection and energy management
• Real-world case studies from NASA and ESA missions

Requirements

• Basic understanding of physics, calculus, and thermodynamics
• Familiarity with aerospace or mechanical engineering principles is helpful
• Interest in spacecraft design and interstellar propulsion systems

Book Description

This space propulsion system design resource takes a systems-level perspective on how modern propulsion systems power the exploration of space. Combining theoretical rigor with practical insights, it covers chemical rockets, electric propulsion, and nuclear thermal propulsion technologies, focusing on how they interact with overall spaceship design constraints and mission profiles.

The book offers a comprehensive guide to design trade-offs, including fuel efficiency, payload capacity, heat management, and system integration. You’ll also gain insight into the challenges of long-duration space travel, including sustainability, redundancy, and reliability in extreme conditions.

By exploring detailed case studies from successful space missions, readers can relate textbook concepts to real engineering problems and innovations shaping the future of space travel.

About the Authors

Written by veteran aerospace engineers and space mission designers, this book blends academic knowledge with hands-on engineering expertise. The authors bring decades of experience from NASA, ESA, and private spaceflight firms, ensuring readers receive a high-impact, real-world education.

Explore These Valuable Resources

• NASA Space Propulsion Systems Overview
• NASA Systems Engineering Handbook (PDF)
• ESA Propulsion Systems

Explore Related Courses

• Intro to Aerospace Engineering
• Thermodynamics for Engineers
• Rocket Propulsion Fundamentals
• Systems Engineering in Aerospace
• Future Space Mission Design