PPU course in space propulsion
About our
The PPU Course in Space Propulsion explores the fundamental principles and advanced applications of space propulsion systems. It focuses on the design, analysis, and operation of rocket engines, attitude control systems, and electric thrusters, integrating key concepts of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer. The course addresses the selection of propellants and fuels, along with performance analysis and numerical simulation, vital for space missions. The program focuses on the practical application of technologies such as chemical propulsion, ion propulsion, and plasma propulsion, including the study of rocket combustion, nozzle design, and thrust characteristics. Experience with propulsion simulation software is provided, crucial for the development of space missions and understanding the challenges of space engineering. Participants will learn about rocket manufacturing and satellite design.
PPU course in space propulsion
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 2
750 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Space Propulsion Domain: Fundamentals and Advanced Applications
- Fundamentals of Space Propulsion: Basic principles, Newton’s laws, and conservation of linear momentum.
- Types of Space Propulsion: Chemical rockets, ion engines, solar propulsion, and other advanced systems.
- Design of Chemical Propulsion Systems: Fuels, oxidizers, combustion chambers, nozzles, and efficiency.
- Rocket Performance Analysis: Tsiolkovsky rocket equation, specific impulse, delta-v, and mission planning.
- Electric Space Propulsion: Operating principles, types of engines (ion, Hall effect, etc.), and applications.
- Modeling and Simulation of Propulsion Systems: Simulation software, flow analysis, and heat transfer.
- Critical Components: Design and fabrication of fuel tanks, turbopumps, Valves and other components.
Space Propulsion Materials: Material selection, properties, and behavior in space environments.
Propulsion Control: Thrust, orientation, and stability control systems for rockets and spacecraft.
Space Propulsion Applications: Space missions, satellites, planetary exploration, and interplanetary flight.
Nuclear Propulsion: Concepts, design, and challenges of nuclear thermal and nuclear electric propulsion.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects: International standards, safety, and sustainability in space.
Future Trends: Innovations in propulsion, such as magnetic, laser, and antimatter propulsion.
2. Unveiling Space Propulsion: Design, Control and Optimization of Systems
- Understand the fundamental principles of space propulsion, including key concepts such as thrust, specific impulse, and efficiency.
- Study the different types of space propulsion systems, such as chemical rockets, electric propulsion, and nuclear propulsion, analyzing their advantages and disadvantages.
- Explore rocket engine design, including the analysis of their main components: combustion chambers, nozzles, injection systems, and cooling systems.
- Explore propulsion system control and management techniques, from start-up and ignition to fuel flow regulation and thrust direction control.
- Learn how to optimize the performance of space propulsion systems, considering factors such as weight, fuel consumption, reliability, and durability.
- Analyze the thermodynamic and heat transfer aspects involved in propulsion systems, including combustion, gas expansion, and heat transfer.
Radiant heat.
Study the materials and technologies used in the construction of space propulsion systems, such as high-temperature metal alloys, ceramics, and composites.
Investigate the different applications of space propulsion, from the launch of satellites and space probes to crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.
Understand the regulations and safety standards applicable to space propulsion systems, including testing and verification procedures.
Simulate and model the behavior of space propulsion systems using specialized software, analyzing different scenarios and optimizing the design.
3. Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)
You will learn to integrate the entire product development process, from initial model conception to final validation, applying user-centered methodologies. You will develop skills in parametric design, ergonomics, simulation, sustainable materials, 3D visualization, and manufacturing management, ensuring efficient, safe solutions that meet current industry standards.
4. Boosting Space Propulsion: Analysis and Application of Key Technologies
Understand the fundamental principles of space propulsion and its challenges.
Explore different space propulsion technologies, including chemical rockets, ion propulsion, nuclear propulsion, and solar sails.
Analyze the operation of rocket engines, including their design, components, and performance.
Study electric propulsion systems, such as ion engines and Hall effect engines, and their advantages and disadvantages.
Evaluate the applications of space propulsion in space missions, including planetary exploration, satellite launches, and interplanetary transport.
Investigate emerging technologies in space propulsion, such as antimatter propulsion and nuclear fusion.
Become familiar with the materials and components used in space propulsion, including fuels, oxidizers, nozzles, and combustion chambers.
Analyze the technical and engineering aspects related to the design, construction, and launch of space propulsion systems.
Study the performance and efficiency factors of space propulsion systems, such as specific impulse, thrust, and mass.
Understand the regulations and standards related to space propulsion, including safety, environmental protection, and weapons proliferation control.
5. Navigating Space: Mastering Propulsion, from Design to Execution
- Understand the fundamental principles of space propulsion, including key concepts such as specific impulse, efficiency, and thrust.
- Study the different types of space propulsion systems, such as chemical rockets, ion engines, nuclear propulsion, and solar sails.
- Analyze the design and operation of rocket engines, including components such as combustion chambers, nozzles, and fuel systems.
- Explore advanced propulsion technologies, such as plasma propulsion, antimatter, and physics-based propulsion systems.
- Learn about the challenges of space propulsion, such as energy efficiency, material durability, and heat management.
- Simulate and model space propulsion systems using specialized software.
- Become familiar with space missions and how propulsion plays a crucial role in the success of each one.
one.
6. Space Propulsion: Design, Analysis and Simulation of Advanced Systems
6. Space Propulsion: Design, Analysis, and Simulation of Advanced Systems
- Fundamental principles of space propulsion: rockets, ion engines, plasma engines, and propellantless propulsion systems.
- Thermodynamic analysis of propulsion systems: thermodynamic cycles, efficiency, and performance.
- Design of rocket nozzles and jets: supersonic flow calculations, contour design, and CFD simulation.
- Study of fuels and propellants: selection, properties, and handling of liquid, solid, and hybrid fuels.
- Simulation of propulsion systems: numerical modeling, simulation software (e.g., OpenFOAM, NASA CEA), and results analysis.
- Design of control and stability systems for rockets and spacecraft.
- Introduction to nuclear propulsion: principles and applications and challenges.
- Applications of space propulsion: interplanetary missions, satellites, and space exploration.
- Safety and reliability aspects of space propulsion systems.
Who this program is for:
PPU course in space propulsion
- Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related fields.
- Professionals from space propulsion companies, research and development, and space consulting.
- Design, systems integration, and testing engineers seeking specialization in space propulsion.
- Scientists and researchers interested in space propulsion and related technologies.
Recommended requirements: Basic knowledge of physics and mathematics; Familiarity with the engineering environment. Language: Proficiency in English will be valued.
- Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
- Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
- Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
- Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
- Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
- Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
Module 1 — Fundamentals of Space Propulsion
1.1 Fundamental principles of space propulsion: Newton’s laws and conservation of linear momentum.
1.2 Types of rocket engines: chemical, electric, and nuclear.
1.3 Rocket equation: fundamentals and applications.
1.4 Key performance parameters: specific impulse, thrust, and efficiency.
1.5 Fuels and oxidizers: selection and characteristics.
1.6 Basic rocket nozzle design.
1.7 Introduction to spaceflight dynamics.
1.8 Attitude control and stabilization systems.
1.9 Introduction to orbital trajectories and maneuvers.
1.10 Emerging technologies and future trends in space propulsion.
2.2 Fundamentals of Space Propulsion System Design
2.2 Space Propulsion System Architectures
2.3 Performance Analysis and System Optimization
2.4 Propulsion System Control and Management
2.5 Design of Key Components: Engines and Fuel Systems
2.6 Integration of Propulsion Systems into Spacecraft
2.7 Simulation and Modeling of Propulsion Systems
2.8 Testing and Validation of Propulsion Systems
2.9 Design for Reliability and Safety
2.20 Case Studies: Practical Applications of Space Propulsion Systems
3.3 Fundamental Principles: Rocket Engines and Their Key Components
3.2 Classical Propulsion Systems: Chemical Rocket Engines and Their Limitations
3.3 The Age of Innovation: Electric Propulsion and Its Variants
3.4 Emerging Technologies: Hybrid Propulsion Systems and Their Potential
3.5 Evolution in Design: Advanced Materials and New Architectures
3.6 The Space Race: Historical Impact and Significant Advances
3.7 Nuclear Propulsion: Concepts and Current Challenges
3.8 Solar Propulsion Systems: Operation and Applications
3.9 Future of Propulsion: Antimatter Research and Other Frontiers
3.30 Key Trends: Sustainability and Reducing Environmental Impact
4.4 Propulsion Systems for Urban Air Vehicles (UAMs) and eVTOLs: Electric Motors and Multiple Rotors
4.2 Certification Requirements Under Development (SC-VTOL, Special Conditions)
4.3 Energy Management and Thermal Aspects in Electric Propulsion (Batteries and Inverters)
4.4 Design for Maintainability and Modular Replacement
4.5 Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost (LCC) in Rotorcraft and eVTOLs
4.6 Operations and Vertiports: Airspace Integration
4.7 Data and Digital Workflow: MBSE/PLM for Change Control
4.8 Technological Risk and Readiness: TRL/CRL/SRL
4.9 Intellectual Property, Certifications, and Time to Market
4.40 Case Study: Go/No-Go Decision Analysis with Risk Matrix
5.5 Rocket Engines: Operating Principles and Types
5.5 Nozzle Design: Geometry, Efficiency, and Thrust
5.3 Fuels and Oxidizers: Selection and Performance
5.4 Propulsion Systems: Pressurization and Regulation
5.5 Rocket Fluid Dynamics: Analysis and Simulation
5.6 Structure and Materials: Design and Strength
5.7 Attitude Control and Stabilization: Methods and Systems
5.8 Testing and Performance Evaluation: Measurements and Analysis
5.9 Space Mission Design: Selection and Trajectory
5.50 Applications of Space Propulsion: Satellites and Exploration
6.6 Space Propulsion Systems Design: Principles and Methodology
6.2 Propulsion Performance Analysis: Modeling and Simulation
6.3 Rocket Engine Design: Components and Systems
6.4 Space Trajectory Simulation: Software and Techniques
6.5 Attitude and Orbit Control Systems: Design and Analysis
6.6 Hybrid Propulsion Systems Design: Integration and Optimization
6.7 Propulsion System Failure and Reliability Simulation
6.8 Advanced Propulsion Systems Design: Emerging Concepts
6.9 Simulation Tools and Specialized Software
6.60 Case Studies: Space Mission Design and Simulation
- Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
- Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
- SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
- Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.
Capstone-type projects
Admissions, fees, and scholarships
- Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
- Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
- Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
- Fees:
- Single payment: 10% discount.
- Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%.
Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review.
Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.
See “Calendar & Calls for Applications,” “Scholarships & Grants,” and “Fees & Financing” in the SEIUM mega-menu.
Do you have any questions?
Our team is ready to help you. Contact us, and we will respond as soon as possible.
F. A. Q
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we have international certification
Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.
It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.
Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).
Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.
Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).