Course Schedule

SPST 552. History of Astronomy and Cosmology. 3 Credits.

This course investigates the history of human endeavors to understand the stars, planets, and cosmos as a whole from a scientific perspective. It covers the early observations and theories of the Babylonians and Greeks through the European Scientific Revolution, and finally to the development of astrophysics and modern cosmology using space vehicles. On demand.

SPST 556. Geopolitics of Outer Space. 3 Credits.

This course provides an overview of the increasing relevance of the geopolitics of outer space in the international system of the 21st century. Although space has always been a critical factor in national security and defense because of its relevant geopolitical value, today all modern military forces rely on space, making it a key domain for any international actor with global aspirations. In recent decades, geopolitical tensions have arisen between the United States and new contenders, particularly China and Russia. Recent events in the international scenario have confirmed space as a strategic operational domain for hybrid warfare tactics, pushing governments to maintain their investments in traditional space applications (such as telecommunications, navigation, and Earth observation), but more importantly in space security and defense systems to further protect their space assets. SS, odd years.