Electric propulsion course in space
About our
The Electric Propulsion in Space course explores the fundamentals and applications of electric propulsion systems, such as ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, and plasma thrusters, for use in space missions. It covers the design, operation, and advantages of electric propulsion over chemical propulsion, addressing topics such as trajectory control, power management, and propulsion optics. It focuses on the impact of these technologies on space exploration, including interplanetary missions and Earth orbit. The course provides an understanding of the latest electric propulsion technologies, control systems, and simulation tools. It analyzes the development of new materials and the optimization of propulsion performance, along with the integration of systems into spacecraft. Prepares participants to understand and apply research and development in the field of electric propulsion, and its application in the space sector.
Electric propulsion course in space
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 2
599 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Advanced Mastery of Space Electric Propulsion Systems
- Understand the architecture and key components of electric space propulsion systems, including:
- Hall effect motors (HETs) and their variants.
- Ion motors and their designs.
- Power sources and power conditioning (EPCS).
- Propellant management systems.
- Explore the physical and mathematical principles that govern the operation of electric propulsion systems, such as:
- Electrodynamics and space plasmas.
- Ion and electron kinetics.
- Plasma modeling and simulation.
- Master the design and optimization techniques for electric space propulsion systems:
- Selecting the appropriate propulsion system for Specific missions.
Sizing and design of key components.
Integration and compatibility with the space platform.
Learn to assess and mitigate the effects of propellant-spacecraft interaction, including:
Surface contamination and erosion.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Spacecraft orbit and attitude perturbations.
Become familiar with emerging technologies and future trends in electric space propulsion:
New types of propellants (e.g., microwave propellants).
Development of high-power propellants.
Applications for interplanetary missions.
Gain knowledge about the Testing and validation of electric space propulsion systems:
- Vacuum testing and simulation of space conditions.
- Performance and lifespan analysis.
- Electromagnetic compatibility validation.
2. In-depth Analysis of the Performance and Design of Rotors for Space Propulsion
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Develop a comprehensive understanding of rotor structural dynamics, including the analysis of complex couplings such as flap-lag-torsion, essential for predicting and mitigating harmful vibrations.
- Evaluate the fatigue resistance of rotors, applying advanced analysis methods to predict service life under cyclic loads and ensure long-term safety and reliability.
- Apply the principles of damage tolerance, implementing methodologies to assess the structure’s capacity to withstand damage, and employ non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques (UT/RT/thermography) for the early detection of defects.
In-depth study of the whirl flutter phenomenon, identifying its causes and developing design strategies to avoid aerodynamic instability that can compromise structural integrity.
Master the dimensioning of components in composite materials, using Finite Element Analysis (FE) tools to optimize strength and weight, paying particular attention to joints and bonded joints.
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. Modeling, Analysis and Optimization of Rotors in Electric Space Propulsion
4. Modeling, Analysis, and Optimization of Rotors in Electric Space Propulsion
- Rotor modeling considering fluid dynamics and aeroelasticity effects.
- Vibration and dynamic stability analysis, including natural modes and frequency response.
- Simulation of the rotor’s structural response to operational and environmental loads.
- Rotor design optimization to maximize performance and minimize weight.
- Rotor lifespan evaluation through fatigue and fracture analysis.
- Application of Machine Learning techniques for performance prediction and optimization.
- Analysis of flap-lag-torsion, whirl flutter, and fatigue couplings.
- Dimensioning of laminates in composites, bonded joints, and bonded joints using FEA.
Implementation of damage tolerance and NDT (UT/RT/thermography).
5. Rotor Engineering: Modeling and Performance in Electric Space Propulsion
5. Rotor Engineering: Modeling and Performance in Electric Space Propulsion
- Understand the principles of electric space propulsion and their impact on rotor design.
- Model the aerodynamics and aeroelasticity of rotors in space environments.
- Analyze flap-lag-torsion, whirl flutter, and fatigue couplings.
- Evaluate rotor performance under different space operating conditions.
- Design and optimize rotor geometry to maximize efficiency and durability.
- Understand composite materials and their application in rotor construction.
- Dimension laminates in composites, joints, and bonded joints with FE.
- Implement damage tolerance and NDT (UT/RT/thermography).
- Study the manufacturing and assembly techniques of space rotors.
- Analyze the structural dynamics and vibration behavior of rotors.
- Identify and mitigate the effects of corrosion and material degradation in space.
- Become familiar with the space industry regulations and standards related to rotors.
6. Modeling and Performance of Rotors for Electric Propulsion in Space
- Master the fundamental principles of rotor design for electric space propulsion.
- Understand and apply the aerodynamic and fluid mechanics concepts relevant to rotor design.
- Evaluate the performance of different rotor configurations, considering factors such as efficiency, thrust, and energy consumption.
- Become familiar with the materials and technologies used in the construction of space rotors, including metal alloys and composites.
- Analyze the effects of rotor-stator interaction on propulsion system performance.
- Use simulation and modeling software to predict rotor behavior under various operating conditions.
- Identify and mitigate the risks associated with the design and operation of rotors for electric space propulsion, including vibration, fatigue, and erosion.
- Apply the acquired knowledge to design and optimize electric space propulsion systems, considering the constraints and Specific requirements for each mission.
Explore the latest trends and advances in the research and development of rotors for electric space propulsion.
Acquire practical skills in conducting tests and experiments with rotors, including measuring key parameters such as thrust, torque, and efficiency.
Who this program is for:
Electric propulsion course in space
- Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical, Industrial, Automatics or similar.
- OEM rotorcraft/eVTOL professionals, MRO, consulting, technology centers.
- Flight Test, certification, avionics, control and dynamics who seek specialization.
- Regulators/authorities and UAM/eVTOL profiles that require compliance competencies.
- 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 — Advanced Mastery of Space Electric Propulsion Systems: Key Concepts
1.1 Fundamental Principles of Space Electric Propulsion
1.2 Types of Space Electric Propulsion Systems: Classification and Comparison
1.3 Power Supply Systems: Sources, Conversion, and Distribution
1.4 Fundamentals of Plasma-Propulsion Interaction
1.5 Design and Analysis of Electric Propulsion System Control Systems
1.6 Key Materials and Components in Space Electric Propulsion
1.7 Thermodynamics and Thermal Management in Propulsion Systems
1.8 Characterization and Performance Testing of Propulsion Systems
1.9 Space Applications and Missions Using Electric Propulsion
1.10 Trends and Future Challenges in Space Electric Propulsion
2.2 Fundamental Concepts of Space Electric Propulsion and Rotor Design
2.2 Principles of Aerodynamics and Rotor Design for Space Environments
2.3 Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies for Rotors
2.4 Rotor Performance Modeling and Simulation
2.5 Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis Applied to Space Rotors
2.6 Design of Control and Stabilization Systems for Rotors
2.7 Rotor Optimization for Efficiency and Durability
2.8 Integration of Rotors with Electric Propulsion Systems
2.9 Risk Assessment and Mitigation in Rotor Design
2.20 Applications and Future of Electric Propulsion with Space Rotors
3.3 Fundamentals of Optimization in Electric Space Propulsion
3.2 Key Parameters in Space Rotor Design
3.3 Optimization Strategies for Rotor Performance
3.4 Design and Material Selection for Space Rotors
3.5 Flow and Aerodynamic Analysis in Rotor Design
3.6 Simulation and Modeling Techniques for Optimization
3.7 Performance Evaluation and Optimization Metrics
3.8 Application of Optimization Algorithms in Design
3.9 Cost and Feasibility Considerations in Rotor Design
3.30 Case Studies: Rotor Optimization for Different Space Missions
4. Modeling of Electric Space Propulsion Systems
5. Fundamental Principles of Rotor Design for Space Propulsion
6. Advanced Modeling Techniques for Rotors
7. Flow Analysis and Fluid Dynamics in Space Rotors
8. Modeling of Rotor Materials and Structures
9. Simulation of Rotor Performance in Space Environments
40. Rotor Design Optimization through Modeling
44. Rotor Model Validation and Verification
42. Case Studies: Applications of Rotor Modeling in Space Propulsion
43. Future Trends in Rotor Modeling for Space Propulsion
5.5 Design and Construction of Rotors for Electric Space Propulsion: Fundamental Principles
5.5 Material Selection and Stress Analysis in Space Rotors
5.3 Aerodynamic Design of Rotors for Efficiency and Performance
5.4 Computational Modeling of Rotors: CFD and Flow Simulation
5.5 Rotor Optimization: Design Techniques and Algorithms
5.6 Fabrication and Testing of Prototype Rotors
5.7 Integration of Rotors into Space Propulsion Systems
5.8 Performance Analysis of Rotors in the Space Environment
5.9 Rotor Durability and Reliability Considerations
5.50 Case Studies: Design and Analysis of Successful Rotors
6.6 Fundamentals of Rotor Modeling for Electric Space Propulsion
6.2 Performance Analysis: Thrust, Efficiency, and Energy Consumption
6.3 Rotor Design: Geometries, Materials, and Design Factors
6.4 Aerodynamic Modeling: CFD and Finite Element Methods
6.5 Simulation of Rotor Behavior in Space Environments
6.6 Performance Optimization: Design Strategies and Parametric Analysis
6.7 Impact of Space Conditions: Vacuum, Temperature, and Radiation
6.8 Rotor Integration with the Electric Propulsion System
6.9 Case Studies: Rotor Analysis in Real Space Applications
6.60 Future Trends in Space Rotor Modeling and Performance
- 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”).