Engineering systems that make up a spacecraft, such as propulsion, power, communications, and thermal control.
Orbital mechanics: The study of the motion of objects in orbit around a celestial body.
Propulsion: The technology of propelling spacecraft through space using rockets, ion thrusters, or other means.
Power systems: The design and operation of the electrical systems that power spacecraft equipment, instruments, and subsystems.
Avionics: The electronic systems and devices used in spacecraft to control, navigate, and communicate with the spacecraft and ground stations.
Communications: The technology used to establish and maintain communication links between spacecraft, ground stations, and other spacecraft.
Control systems: The onboard mechanisms used to control spacecraft orientation, attitude, and trajectory, such as reaction wheels, thrusters, and gyros.
Thermal management: The design and operation of the systems that regulate spacecraft temperature and prevent damage from extreme temperatures.
Structures and materials: The design and materials used for spacecraft structures, including structural analysis, mechanical design, and testing.
Payload integration: The integration of scientific instruments, sensors, and other equipment into a spacecraft's mission operations.
Operations and ground systems: The planning, management, and control of spacecraft during mission operations, including ground systems and procedures.
Launch and deployment: The process of launching a spacecraft into space and deploying it into its operational orbit or trajectory.
Safety and reliability: The assessment and management of risks associated with spacecraft and launch systems, including safety protocols and contingency planning.
Power Subsystem: Generates and manages electric power on spacecraft.
Propulsion Subsystem: Provides thrust to propel the spacecraft in space.
Thermal Control Subsystem: Maintains optimal temperature conditions within a spacecraft, protecting the onboard equipment from extreme temperatures.
Attitude Control Subsystem: Keeps the spacecraft oriented, stabilized and pointing in the desired direction or attitude in space.
Communication Subsystem: Enables the spacecraft to communicate with Earth or other spacecraft by transmitting or receiving signals.
Command and Data Handling Subsystem: Processes and handles all the commands and data between the spacecraft and ground controllers.
Navigation Subsystem: Determine the position and trajectory of a spacecraft such as inertial measurement units, star trackers, and GPS.
Structure and Mechanisms Subsystem: Provides the framework and infrastructure of a spacecraft, including deployment mechanisms.
Payload Subsystem: Carries out the scientific or operational mission objectives, such as scientific instruments or satellites.
Deployable Subsystems: Mounted on spacecraft that are intended to be deployed or jettisoned during mission operations, for example, solar panels, antennas, and booms.