MSc-PGDip in Space Technology and Planetary Exploration
ObjectivesThe Space Technology and Planetary Exploration programme is designed to give students the specialist multidisciplinary knowledge and skills required for careers based on working with space technology and its applications. Surrey students have access to all aspects of the design and delivery of a space vehicle with payloads for a space mission, and thus are very attractive to the relevant space-related industries.
Entry requirementsThe programmes are intended for good honours graduates of mathematics, computing, physical sciences and engineering disciplines. Our normal entry level is a minimum of a Lower Second or equivalent; however, with industrial experience, we can be flexible in our entry requirements.
Academic titleMSc/PGDip in Space Technology and Planetary Exploration
Course descriptionEarth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond... a new era of space and planetary exploration is opening up, utilising new advances in technology to decrease the cost of space exploration, whilst maximising the scientific and commercial return. Surrey is at the forefront of this revolution and is the only university anywhere in the world that has a sustained programme of building complete satellites, performing the mission planning, working with international launch agencies and providing in-orbit operations.
This degree programme is supported by the European Space Agency, the UK Industrial Space Committee, and the major UK and European space companies including: the University's own spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL); EADS Astrium; Logica CMG; NPA Satellite Mapping; and Analyticon, all of whom are interested in the employment of successful graduates from these programmes. Space is a growth area, with approximately 6,500 people employed by the UK space sector alone.
The programme provides a core of modules in spacecraft systems design, satellite remote sensing, guidance, navigation and control, and space robotics. Optional modules, including launch vehicles and propulsion, signal processing and RF electronics, allow the student to tailor their degree to suit their interests.
A major Space Centre-related project enables the students to apply their theoretical knowledge collectively in a practical spacecraft engineering context.
Programme length
12 months full-time, up to 48 months part-time