Diploma in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation
About us Diploma in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation
The Diploma in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation delves into the domain of orbital mechanics and the design of control systems for satellites, addressing advanced techniques of space navigation, kinematics and rigid body dynamics. The program focuses on the application of Kalman filtering algorithms and other estimation strategies to determine the attitude and position of spacecraft, integrating simulation and data analysis tools in 3D modeling environments. Practical training includes the design of sensors and actuators for attitude control, the implementation of propulsion systems, and the analysis of orbital stability, using specialized software and space flight simulators. Participants will develop skills in space mission planning, trajectory analysis, and orbital resource management, crucial for the operation of satellites and spacecraft.
Diploma in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 6–8 months
- Hours: 800 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Strat date: 03-12-2026
- Available places: 3
1,799 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Mastery of Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Key Skills
Understand and apply the fundamental principles of attitude and orbit control for spacecraft.
Develop skills in accurately estimating the position, velocity, and orientation of a spacecraft.
Study and master space navigation techniques, including trajectory determination and orbital maneuver planning.
Learn to use specialized tools and software for the simulation and analysis of attitude and orbit control systems.
Analyze the factors that influence the stability and performance of spacecraft in different orbital environments.
2. Advanced Mastery of Attitude, Orbit, and Estimation Control: Specialized Techniques
- Gain mastery in the application of advanced algorithms for attitude control, including the handling of moments of inertia and the compensation of external perturbations.
- Deepen knowledge of the design and analysis of orbital trajectories, encompassing the optimization of orbital transfers, error correction, and fuel management.
- Master techniques for estimating key parameters in space systems, such as position, velocity, and attitude, using extended Kalman filters and other filtering tools.
- Study and apply advanced control methods, such as robust control and adaptive control, to ensure the stability and optimal performance of space missions.
- Understand and analyze the effects of perturbing forces, including solar pressure, atmospheric drag, and gravitational fields, and develop mitigation strategies.
Become familiar with state-of-the-art simulation and modeling tools for the analysis and validation of attitude and orbit control systems.
Learn to design and evaluate propulsion systems, including engine selection, fuel consumption optimization, and orbital maneuver planning.
Analyze the impact of sensors and actuators on attitude and orbit control performance, and understand calibration and error compensation techniques.
Develop problem-solving and decision-making skills in complex space mission scenarios, using knowledge of attitude control, orbit, and estimation.
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. Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Comprehensive Design and Analysis
4. Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Comprehensive Design and Analysis
- Design of control algorithms for spacecraft orientation and positioning.
- Analysis of flight dynamics and external perturbations affecting attitude and orbit.
- Modeling and simulation of attitude control systems using specialized software tools.
- Study of sensors and actuators used in attitude control, including gyroscopes, solar sensors, flywheels, and thrusters.
- Evaluation of the stability and performance of attitude control systems.
- Application of orbit estimation and attitude determination techniques using sensor data.
- Error analysis and sensor calibration.
- Design of control strategies for orbit correction and attitude management in different mission scenarios.
- Study
- Limitations and challenges associated with attitude and orbit control in complex space environments.
- Implementation of optimization techniques for attitude and orbit control efficiency.
5. Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Implementation and In-Depth Analysis
5. Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Implementation and In-Depth Analysis
- Design and optimization of algorithms for attitude and orbit control of spacecraft.
- Analysis of propulsion systems and their impact on maneuverability and stability.
- Modeling and simulation of orbital dynamics, including perturbations and environmental effects.
- Implementation of state estimation techniques using Kalman filters and other advanced methodologies.
- Evaluation of control system performance under different scenarios and operating conditions.
- Study of navigation and guidance in complex space environments.
- Analysis of error propagation and the robustness of control systems.
- Application of specialized software tools for the design and analysis of aerospace systems.
- Research into adaptive control techniques and predictive control based on models.
- Integration of sensors and actuators in attitude and orbit control systems.
6. Expert Analysis of Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Advanced Methodologies
6. Expert Analysis in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation: Advanced Methodologies
- Mastery of space flight dynamics analysis techniques.
- Application of complex mathematical models for predicting satellite orientation and position.
- Development of attitude control algorithms robust to external perturbations.
- In-depth understanding of propulsion systems and their influence on orbit.
- Implementation of navigation and orbit determination (OD) strategies.
- Use of specialized software for the simulation and analysis of space scenarios.
- Evaluation of orbit stability and control in different gravitational environments.
- Design of space missions, considering performance and efficiency constraints.
- Interpretation of telemetry data and fault diagnosis in control systems.
- Application of advanced estimation techniques for system performance improvement.
Who this program is for:
Diploma in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation
- Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related fields.
- Professionals from OEM rotorcraft/eVTOL, MRO, consulting, and technology centers.
- Flight Engineers, certification, avionics, control, and dynamics seeking specialization in attitude/orbit control.
- Regulators/authorities and UAM/eVTOL professionals with responsibilities in compliance and operational safety.
- 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 — Introduction to Attitude/Orbit Control**
1.1 Fundamental concepts of attitude and orbit: definitions and reference frames.
1.2 Satellite dynamics: Kepler’s laws and orbital perturbations.
1.3 Attitude sensors: types and operating principles.
1.4 Attitude control actuators: types and operating principles.
1.5 Introduction to attitude and orbit estimation: filters and basic algorithms.
1.6 Perturbation modeling: external forces and their effects.
1.7 Introduction to control design: stability and performance.
1.8 Simulation tools: software and simulators for attitude/orbit control.
1.9 Case studies: examples of space missions and their control systems.
1.10 Future trends: technological advances and challenges in attitude/orbit control.
2.2 Advanced Navigation and Control Systems
2.2 Orbital Propulsion and Maneuverability
2.3 Altitude and Orientation Control in Complex Scenarios
2.4 Refined Position and Velocity Estimation Techniques
2.5 Optimized Orbital Trajectory Design
2.6 Reference Frames and Transformations
2.7 Data Filtering and Smoothing Techniques
2.8 Perturbation Analysis and Corrections
2.9 Specialized Software and Tools
2.20 Advanced Simulations and Testing
3.3 Fundamental Principles of Orbital Mechanics and Attitude
3.2 Coordinate Systems and Transformations
3.3 Dynamic Modeling of Spacecraft
3.4 Sensors and Actuators: Fundamentals and Applications
3.5 Design of Attitude Control Algorithms
3.6 Orbit Estimation and Kalman Filters
3.7 Navigation Based on Sensors and Flight Data
3.8 Orbit Propagation and Perturbations
3.9 Software and Simulation: Essential Tools
3.30 Case Studies: Real-World Applications
4.4 Design Principles in A/O/E Control: Specifications and Objectives
4.2 Mathematical Modeling and Simulation: Essential Tools
4.3 Control Algorithm Design: Key Techniques
4.4 Sensor and Actuator Selection: Critical Considerations
4.5 Stability and Performance Analysis: Advanced Methods
4.6 Trajectory Design and Mission Planning
4.7 Control Subsystem Design: Integration and Optimization
4.8 Error and Robustness Analysis: Performance Evaluation
4.9 Design Validation and Verification: Testing and Simulation
4.40 Case Studies: Applications and Practical Examples
5.5 eVTOL and UAM: Electric Propulsion, Multiple Rotors
5.5 Emerging Certification Requirements (SC-VTOL, Special Conditions)
5.3 Energy and Thermal in E-Propulsion (Batteries/Inverters)
5.4 Design for Maintainability and Modular Swaps
5.5 LCA/LCC in Rotorcraft and eVTOL (Footprint and Cost)
5.6 Operations & Vertiports: Airspace Integration
5.7 Data & Digital Thread: MBSE/PLM for Change Control
5.8 Tech Risk and Readiness: TRL/CRL/SRL
5.9 IP, Certifications, and Time-to-Market
5.50 Case Clinic: Go/No-Go with Risk Matrix
6.6 eVTOL and UAM: Electric Propulsion, Multiple Rotors
6.2 Emerging Certification Requirements (SC-VTOL, Special Conditions)
6.3 Energy and Thermal in E-Propulsion (Batteries/Inverters)
6.4 Design for Maintainability and Modular Swaps
6.5 LCA/LCC in Rotorcraft and eVTOL (Footprint and Cost)
6.6 Operations & Vertiports: Airspace Integration
6.7 Data & Digital Thread: MBSE/PLM for Change Control
6.8 Tech Risk and Readiness: TRL/CRL/SRL
6.9 IP, Certifications, and Time-to-Market
6.60 Case Clinic: Go/No-Go with Risk Matrix
7.7 eVTOL and UAM: Electric Propulsion, Multiple Rotors
7.2 Emerging Certification Requirements (SC-VTOL, Special Conditions)
7.3 Energy and Thermal in E-Propulsion (Batteries/Inverters)
7.4 Design for Maintainability and Modular Swaps
7.7 LCA/LCC in Rotorcraft and eVTOL (Footprint and Cost)
7.6 Operations & Vertiports: Airspace Integration
7.7 Data & Digital Thread: MBSE/PLM for Change Control
7.8 Tech Risk and Readiness: TRL/CRL/SRL
7.9 IP, Certifications, and Time-to-Market
7.70 Case Clinic: Go/No-Go with Risk Matrix
8.8 Theoretical Foundations: Principles of Orbital and Attitudinal Dynamics
8.8 Simulation Tools: Specialized Software and its Application
8.3 Reference Systems: Definition and Transformation of Coordinates
8.4 Sensors and Actuators: Selection and Calibration
8.5 Trajectory Design: Orbital Planning and Maneuvers
8.6 Controllers: Algorithm Design and Tuning
8.7 Orbital Propagation: Orbit Modeling and Prediction
8.8 State Estimation: Kalman Filters and Advanced Techniques
8.8 Stability Analysis: Design Evaluation and Improvement
8.80 Applications: Space Missions and Future Scenarios
9.9 Fundamental Concepts of Attitude and Orbit
9.9 Reference Frames and Coordinate Transformation
9.3 Rotational and Translational Dynamics
9.4 Sensors and Actuators for Attitude and Orbit Control
9.5 Basic Algorithms for Attitude and Orbit Control
9.6 Attitude and Orbit Estimation
9.7 Simulation and Analysis of Control Systems
9.8 Applications in Navigation and Space Control
9.9 Introduction to Systems Modeling and Design
9.9 Attitude Control with External Perturbations
9.9 Orbit Control with Orbital Maneuvers
9.3 Adaptive and Robust Control Techniques
9.4 Kalman Filters and Advanced Estimation Techniques
9.5 Attitude and Orbit Control in Complex Environments
9.6 Design of Nonlinear Control Systems
9.7 Integration of Control and Navigation Systems
9.8 Implementation of Algorithms in Real Time
9.9 Case Studies and Advanced Simulations
3.9 Fundamentals of Orbital and Rotational Mechanics
3.9 Classical and Modern Control Theory
3.3 Design of Optimal Control Systems
3.4 Stability and Robustness Analysis
3.5 Modeling of Complex Systems
3.6 Simulation and Analysis of Advanced Control Systems
3.7 Applications in Space Missions
3.8 Case Studies and Research Projects
3.9 System Design and Validation Methodologies
4.9 Design of Attitude and Orbit Control Systems
4.9 Performance and Stability Analysis
4.3 Simulation and Modeling of Complex Systems
4.4 Design of Sensors and Actuators
4.5 Risk and Safety Analysis
4.6 Optimization of Control Systems
4.7 Integration of Control and Navigation Systems
4.8 Space Mission Design
4.9 Documentation and Presentation of Results
5.9 Implementation of Control Systems in Hardware and Software
5.9 System Testing and Validation
5.3 Data and Results Analysis
5.4 System Maintenance and Calibration
5.5 Integration of Complex Systems
5.6 User Interface Design
5.7 Project Management and Equipment
5.8 Documentation and Technical Reporting
5.9 Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting
6.9 Control System Analysis Methodologies
6.9 Advanced Simulation and Modeling Techniques
6.3 Analysis of Complex Data and Results
6.4 Design of Experiments
6.5 Optimization Techniques and Optimal Control
6.6 Risk and Safety Analysis
6.7 Case Studies and Research Projects
6.8 Presentation of Results and Technical Communication
6.9 Trends and Advances in Attitude/Orbit Control and Estimation
7.9 Fundamental Principles of Attitude Control
7.9 Key Components of Control Systems
7.3 Control Algorithms and Techniques
7.4 Sensors and Actuators: Operation and Selection
7.5 System Modeling and Simulations
7.6 Stability and Performance Analysis
7.7 Design Considerations for Space Missions
7.8 Problem Solving and Practical Examples
7.9 Future Trends in Attitude and Orbit Control
8.9 Fundamentals of Orbital Mechanics and rotational
8.9 Control Theory: Concepts and Applications
8.3 Design and Analysis of Control Systems
8.4 Implementation and Testing of Systems
8.5 Applications in Space Missions
8.6 Impact of Technology on the Future
8.7 Trends and Challenges in the Field
8.8 Ethical and Professional Considerations
8.9 Career Prospects and Opportunities
9.9 Sensors and Actuators: Selection and Configuration
9.9 Attitude and Orbit Control in Real-World Situations
9.3 Modeling and Simulation of Complex Systems
9.4 Advanced Estimation and Filtering Techniques
9.5 Stability and Robustness Analysis
9.6 Design of Optimal Control Systems
9.7 Implementation and Real-Time Testing
9.8 Project and Team Management
9.9 Case Studies and Practical Examples
9.90 Development of Problem-Solving Skills
1.1 Introduction to the Final Project: Objectives and Scope
1.2 Selection of the Orbital Mission and Parameters
1.3 Modeling of Orbital Environments: Earth, Sun, Moon
1.4 Orbital Dynamics: Equations and Simulations
1.5 Design of Trajectories and Orbital Maneuvers
1.6 Sensors and Actuators for Attitude Control
1.7 Orbit Estimation and Attitude Determination
1.8 Simulation and Results Analysis: Validations
1.9 Presentation of Results and Project Conclusions
1.10 Project Documentation and Future Recommendations
1.10
- 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’ll get back to you as soon as possible.