RPOD (rendezvous & docking) course
About our
The Rendezvous & Docking (RPOD) course focuses on comprehensive training in the essential techniques and technologies for spacecraft docking and rendezvous. It explores the necessary navigation, guidance, and control (GNC) systems, along with target detection and orbital rendezvous methods. The course covers everything from mission planning and orbital kinematics to the implementation of advanced approach and docking strategies, including the use of proximity sensors and vision systems. The study delves into docking mechanisms, safety protocols, and space operating procedures, ensuring proficiency in simulating and executing critical maneuvers in space environments. The training includes practical simulations and the analysis of real-world cases, with a special emphasis on risk management and problem-solving. It focuses on compliance with international standards and the application of industry best practices, preparing participants for roles such as mission engineers, space docking specialists, flight operators, and space systems analysts, providing the skills to contribute to complex and safe space missions.
RPOD (rendezvous & docking) course
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 2
380 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Expert Domain in Rendezvous and Docking: Techniques, Systems and Simulation
- Precise planning and execution of rendezvous and docking maneuvers in complex naval environments.
- Mastery of navigation and control systems essential for rendezvous and docking, including GPS, INS, and visual reference systems.
- Detailed analysis of approach, positioning, and docking techniques, considering variables such as speed, direction, and ocean currents.
- Advanced use of naval simulators to practice and refine rendezvous and docking skills under diverse operational conditions.
- In-depth understanding of the communication and coordination protocols necessary for the success of rendezvous and docking operations between vessels and/or platforms.
- Assessment and mitigation of risks associated with rendezvous and docking operations, including environmental factors, equipment failures, and human error.
- Application of relevant international regulations and standards to ensure the safety and efficiency of naval rendezvous and docking operations.
Docking.
Implementation of effective management and leadership strategies during Rendezvous and Docking operations, promoting teamwork and informed decision-making.
Interpretation and analysis of data from sensors and real-time monitoring systems to optimize performance and safety during docking operations.
Development of problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure in emergency situations, applying the knowledge acquired in the course.
2. Rotor modeling and analysis: Performance, design and simulation
- You will understand rotor modeling, including vibration mode and stability analysis.
- You will learn to evaluate rotor performance, considering factors such as aerodynamic efficiency and power.
- You will be trained in rotor design, addressing aspects such as material selection and shape optimization.
- You will master the use of simulation tools to predict rotor behavior under various operating conditions.
- You will explore the analysis of flap-lag-torsion couplings, crucial for rotor stability and control.
- You will delve into the study of whirl flutter and its impact on the structural integrity of rotors.
- You will analyze fatigue failure mechanisms and how to mitigate them in rotor design.
- You will develop skills in the dimensioning of laminates in composites, essential for the construction of modern rotors.
You will learn to design and analyze joints and bonded joints using Finite Element (FE) techniques.
You will apply damage tolerance principles to ensure the safety and reliability of rotors.
You will become familiar with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods such as UT/RT/thermography for rotor inspection.
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. Master's Degree in RPOD: Orbital Docking, Trajectories and Precise Control
- Master the fundamentals of orbital docking, including perturbation theory and rigid body dynamics.
- Study different orbital trajectories, such as geostationary, sun-synchronous, and Hohmann transfer orbits, and their applications.
- Learn to design and analyze control systems for orbital docking, using modern and robust control techniques.
- Understand the concepts of orbital maneuvers, including the planning and execution of orbit changes and rendezvous.
- Become familiar with space navigation techniques, such as determining position and orientation, and tracking satellites.
- Analyze the factors that influence the accuracy of orbital docking, such as gravitational perturbations, the atmosphere, and measurement errors.
- Use space flight simulation software to model and analyze orbital docking scenarios.
- Study the key technologies for orbital docking, including propulsion systems, sensors, and actuators.
- Understand the international norms and standards for orbital docking, and the safety and liability aspects.
- Apply the knowledge acquired in practical design and simulation projects for orbital docking missions.
complex.
5. Unraveling Rendezvous and Docking: Strategies, Simulations, and Orbital Control
5. Unraveling Rendezvous and Docking: Strategies, Simulations, and Orbital Control
Master the key techniques for planning and executing rendezvous and docking operations in space.
Study the different approach and docking strategies, including trajectory analysis and orbital maneuvers.
Learn to simulate complex rendezvous and docking scenarios using specialized software, considering factors such as orbital dynamics and perturbations.
Delve into the orbital control systems necessary to maintain and adjust the position and orientation of spacecraft during rendezvous and docking operations.
Understand the navigation and guidance systems employed, including the use of sensors, radar, and machine vision systems.
Analyze docking systems and their operating mechanisms, from traditional designs to the most advanced technologies.
Evaluate the Explore the technical challenges and solutions implemented in real-world space missions, both crewed and uncrewed, involving rendezvous and docking.
Explore international regulations and standards related to rendezvous and docking operations in space.
Develop problem-solving and decision-making skills for critical situations during rendezvous and docking operations.
Apply the acquired knowledge in practical projects and simulations to strengthen understanding and the ability to apply the concepts.
6. RPOD Domain: Coupling, Trajectories, Systems and Advanced Simulations
6. RPOD Mastery: Coupling, Trajectories, Systems, and Advanced Simulations
- In-depth study of complex aerodynamic couplings: flap-lag-torsion, with emphasis on their influence on stability and control.
- Detailed analysis of the whirl flutter phenomenon and its implications for structural design and safety.
- Fatigue assessment in components, including service life prediction methods and mitigation strategies.
- Design and dimensioning of laminated composite structures, addressing material selection and design optimization.
- Application of finite element (FE) analysis techniques for stress modeling and analysis in composites, joints, and bonded joints.
- Design of adhesive and mechanical joints, including The selection of adhesives and the analysis of their behavior under load.
Implementation of damage tolerance methodologies, including crack propagation analysis and evaluation of remaining service life.
Use of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques such as UT (ultrasound), RT (radiography), and thermography for structural inspection and damage detection.
Who this program is for:
RPOD (rendezvous & docking) course
- Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related fields.
- Professionals in OEM rotorcraft/eVTOL, MRO, consulting, and technology centers.
- Flight Testing, certification, avionics, control, and dynamics seeking specialization.
- Regulators/authorities and UAM/eVTOL professionals requiring compliance skills.
Recommended requirements: foundation in aerodynamics and control and structures; ES/EN B2+/C1. We offer bridging tracks if you need them.
- 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 — RPOD Fundamentals and Overview
1.1 Introduction to Rendezvous, Proximity, Operations, and Docking (RPOD)
1.2 Principles of Orbital Mechanics
1.3 Reference Frames and Coordinates
1.4 Attitudes and Attitude Control
1.5 Sensors and Actuators for RPOD
1.6 Orbital Trajectories and Maneuvers
1.7 RPOD Modeling and Simulation
1.8 Design Considerations for RPOD
1.9 Simulation Software and Tools
1.10 Case Studies and Real-World Applications
2.2 Propeller and Rotor Design Principles
2.2 Rotor Aerodynamics: Theory and Applications
2.3 Rotor Modeling: Methods and Tools
2.4 Rotor Performance Analysis: Thrust, Power, and Efficiency
2.5 Rotor Design: Airfoil and Geometry Selection
2.6 Rotor Simulation: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
2.7 Rotor Modeling in Complex Flight Environments
2.8 Rotor System Stability and Control
2.9 Rotor Failure Analysis and Reliability
2.20 Case Studies and Practical Applications in Rotor Design
3.3 Fundamentals of Space Navigation: Key Concepts
3.2 Orbital Mechanics: Orbits, Trajectories, and Perturbations
3.3 Reference Systems and Spatial Coordinates
3.4 Orbit Determination and Propagation
3.5 Rendezvous: Approach Strategies and Maneuvers
3.6 Docking: Docking Design and Operations
3.7 Sensors and Actuators: Guidance, Navigation, and Control
3.8 Simulation and Analysis of RPOD Trajectories
3.9 Case Studies: Historical RPOD Missions
3.30 Challenges and Future of RPOD Space Navigation
4.4 Fundamental Concepts of RPOD: Definitions and Terminology
4.2 Orbital Mechanics: Trajectories and Orbital Transfers
4.3 Trajectory Modeling: Propagation and Perturbations
4.4 Navigation Systems: Sensors and Estimation Techniques
4.5 Attitude and Orbit Control: Algorithms and Strategies
4.6 Rendezvous: Planning and Maneuver Sequences
4.7 Docking: Mechanism Design and Procedures
4.8 RPOD Simulation: Software and Analysis Tools
4.9 Case Studies: Historical and Future Missions
4.40 Challenges and Trends: Advances in RPOD
5.5 Rendezvous and Docking Fundamentals: Key Concepts and Terminology
5.5 Orbital Trajectory Design: Modeling and Simulation
5.3 Navigation and Sensor Systems for RPOD
5.4 Attitude and Orbit Control: Docking Strategies
5.5 Advanced RPOD Simulations: Software and Tools
5.6 The Rendezvous Process: Phases and Sequences
5.7 Docking Techniques: Mechanisms and Design
5.8 Real-Time Orbital Control: Algorithms and Adaptation
5.9 Risk Analysis and Mitigation in RPOD
5.50 Case Studies: Successes and Challenges in RPOD Missions
6.6 RPOD Fundamentals: Principles and Key Concepts
6.2 Orbits and Trajectories: Selection and Design
6.3 Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Systems for RPOD
6.4 Sensors and Actuators: Technologies and Applications
6.5 RPOD Simulations: Tools and Methodologies
6.6 Space Docking: Strategies and Techniques
6.7 Risk Analysis and Mitigation: Safety in RPOD
6.8 Case Studies: Successful RPOD Missions
6.9 RPOD Mission Design: Planning and Execution
6.60 Future Trends in RPOD: Innovation and Challenges
- 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”).