Course Schedule
These courses are tentatively scheduled to be offered, and are subject to low-enrollment cancellation. To see the course descriptions, refer to the course listing. Note that SPST 504, 591, 593, 996, 997, and 998 are available every semester and require the instructor's approval prior to registration.
Selecting Campus or Online section of a course:
- In Campus Connection, find the desired course
- By clicking on either section that is highlighted in blue, the class details will provide the information indicating an online course
- The location code lists either "GrandForks" for campus sections or "University of North Dakota" for online sections
Last Updated 03.28.2023
Spring 2023
SPST 200. Introduction to Space Studies. 3 Credits.
An introduction to a range of topics in space studies including: an overview of planetary science, stellar evolution and the history of the universe; a brief view of the history of national and international activities, an examination of the fundamentals of space flight and human activity in space, a review of some current problems and issues in the space arena, and a projection of the future course of space activities in the coming decades. This is a required course for an undergraduate minor in space studies. F,S.
Offered: On-Campus (MWF 10:10AM - 11:00AM)
Instructor: Keith Crisman
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 300. The Case for Space. 3 Credits.
This is a multidisciplinary course that will examine the rationales for a wide variety of space exploration and development activities. Topics will include human space flight, space science missions, military and commercial space activities, space resource utilization, and the benefits and problems that society derives from these activities. The socioeconomic, socio-political and multi-cultural impact of space activities--nationally and globally--will be discussed and debated with the goal of providing students with a broad perspective of the varying effects of space activities on modern society. Prerequisite: SPST 200. F, even years.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 11:00AM - 12:15PM)
Instructor: Caitlin Milera
Required Textbook:
- Space Chronicles: Facing the Ultimate Frontier by Neil deGrasse Tyson. ISBN-13: 978-0393350371, ISBN-10: 0393350371
SPST 360. NASA. 3 Credits.
An examination of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). NASA was formed in 1958 out of the existing National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA) and elements from the Army and Navy -- but not the Air Force -- space programs. This course will examine the technologies, the history and the politics involved in each of the NASA elements -- including the one "new" center not inherited from earlier organizations: the Johnson Space Center in Houston. The course will conclude with a picture of NASA today. Prerequisite: SPST 200 or consent of instructor. F.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
Instructor: Francisco Del Canto Viterale
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 425. Observational Astronomy. 3 Credits.
This course explores aspects of observational astronomy including monochromatic imaging, astrometry, and photometry. Basic observing techniques, astronomical equipment, characteristics of the night sky, data reduction, interpretations, as well as image processing techniques will be taught. Students will learn to operate a remotely controllable Internet telescope and CCD camera. A broadband Internet connection is recommended. Night observing is required. Prerequisite: PHYS 110 or consent of instructor. S.
Offered: On-Campus (MWF 11:15AM - 12:05PM), Online (Tu 6:00PM - 7:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Technical (Applications)
Instructor: Sherry Fieber-Beyer
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 460. Life in the Universe. 3 Credits.
This course examines the nature and evolution of life on Earth from its origin to the present time in the context of cosmological evolution, chemical evolution, planetary evolution, biological evolution, and cultural evolution. The possibility of life elsewhere in the universe is considered based on the conditions under which life could arise and flourish. Human changes to the Earth are placed within this context. The future of life on Earth is discussed and the social and cultural implications arising from the discovery of extraterrestrial life are explored. On demand.
Offered: On-Campus (MWF 10:10AM - 11:00AM), Online (W 5:00PM - 6:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Technical (Planetary Science)
Instructor: Sherry Fieber-Beyer
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 470. Special Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on specific topics of current interest. May be repeated for credit if topic is different up to a total of 6 credits. Prerequisite: SPST 200. Repeatable to 6.00 credits. On demand.
Offered: Online (W 6:00PM - 9:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): TBD
Instructor: David Kugler
Required Textbooks:
- Spacepower Ascendant: Space Development Theory and a New Space Strategy by Joshua Carlson (2020) independently published. ISBN-13: 979-8655659230 (available from online booksellers)
- Developing National Power in Space: A Theoretical Model by Brent Ziarnick (2015) McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers. ISBN-13: 978-0786494996
SPST 502. Survey of Space Studies II. 3 Credits.
SPST 502 is the second course in a two-course sequence (along with SPST 501) in Space Studies that introduces new students to essential knowledge that will be necessary to successfully complete their M.S. degree in space studies. SPST 502 consists of the following five modules: 1) space mission design (two modules), 2) orbital mechanics, 3) launch vehicles and propulsion, and 4) robotic spacecraft instrumentation. All modules contain foundational information that will give students the basic knowledge and skills necessary to achieve a broad understanding of the multi- and inter-disciplinary nature of space studies; knowledge that can be applied in later courses, such as Capstone; and knowledge that facilitates thesis and other specialized types of instruction and research. Course content in SPST 502 will also be used to assess student learning at the end of their M.S. program via the Comprehensive Examination. Students are expected to master and understand course content, be able to apply course content as appropriate, and demonstrate their understanding of course content prior to graduation. S.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 9:30AM - 10:45AM), Online (M 6:00PM - 7:00PM)
Instructor: Pablo de León
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 506. Advanced Orbital Mechanics. 3 Credits.
This course provides a working knowledge of the field of orbital mechanics including the use of appropriate mathematical and computational techniques, the analysis of professional papers in orbital mechanics, and applying the appropriate techniques to solve orbital mechanics problems. Topics covered include orbital elements, perturbations, coordinate systems, orbit determination, and multi-body gravitational problems. Prerequisites: SPST 500 and MATH 266 or equivalent or Instructor consent. S.
Offered: On-Campus (MWF 10:10AM - 11:00AM), Online (M 7:00PM - 8:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Technical (Space Engineering)
Instructor: Ronald Fevig
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 512. Human Performance in Extreme Environments. 3 Credits.
This course identifies the impact that the stressors of extreme environments have on human performance. The course objectives are to highlight the differences and similarities among extreme environments and to demonstrate that, despite the differences lessons learned from operations in a given extreme environment can be effectively applied to other environments. Although settings such as space, mountains, or deep sea exhibit unique characteristics, the human physiological and psychological reactions and adaptations to these extreme settings stay similar. On demand.
Offered: On-Campus (F 6:00PM - 9:00PM), Online (F 6:00PM - 9:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Technical (Human Factors)
Instructor: Travis Nelson, Pablo de León
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 540. Space Economics and Commerce. 3 Credits.
A study of the economic aspects of space activities, with analysis of the possibilities and the barriers. Key areas include launch services, satellite communications, remote sensing, microgravity materials processing, and interaction with the government. Global competition against subsidies or government-sponsored entities is examined. On demand.
Offered: On-Campus (MW 2:30PM - 3:45PM), Online (T 5:00PM - 6:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Social (Management)
Instructor: Francisco Del Canto Viterale
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 565. Space Law. 3 Credits.
This course serves as a graduate-level introduction to the field of Law as applied to Space Law. The course examines the origins and evolution of the laws of outer space from the beginnings of the space age to the present. International laws governing access and use of space, and national laws regulating governmental and commercial activities in space are reviewed and analyzed. On demand.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 2:00PM - 3:15PM), Online (W 6:00PM - 7:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Social (Law)
Instructor: Michael Dodge
Required Textbook:
- Handbook of International Law, 2nd ed. by Anthony Aust, ISBN-10: 0521133491 / ISBN-13: 978-0521133494
SPST 570. Advanced Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on advanced topics of current interest. May be repeated if the topic is different. Repeatable.
A thorough introduction to electric thrusters, including electrostatic and electromagnetic versions. Discussions on qualitative aspects, and numerical analyses of their most important features, with those practical applications that will power the space missions of tomorrow.
Offered: On-Campus (MW 11:15AM - 12:30PM), Online (Th 8:00PM - 9:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): Technical (Space Engineering)
Instructor: Marcos Fernández Tous
Required Textbook:
- Rocket Propulsion Elements, 9th ed. by Gorge P. Sutton, Oscar Biblarz. ISBN: 9781118753651
SPST 570. Advanced Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on advanced topics of current interest. May be repeated if the topic is different. Repeatable.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 11:00AM - 12:15PM), Online (Th 7:00PM - 8:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): TBD
Instructor: Michael Dodge
Required Textbooks:
- The Big Book of Science Fiction edited by Ann and Jeff Vandermeer. ISBN-10: 9781101910092 / ISBN-13: 978-1101910092
- Red Star: the First Bolshevik Utopia by Alexander Bogdanov. ISBN-10: 0253203171 / ISBN-13: 978-0253203175
- We by Yevgeny Zamyatin. ISBN-10: 0140185852 / ISBN-13: 978-0140185850
SPST 570. Advanced Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on advanced topics of current interest. May be repeated if the topic is different. Repeatable.
Offered: On-Campus (TuTh 12:30PM - 1:45PM), Online (Tu 8:00PM - 9:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): TBD
Instructor: Marcos Fernández Tous
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 570. Advanced Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on advanced topics of current interest. May be repeated if the topic is different. Repeatable.
Offered: On-Campus (MW 1:00PM - 2:15PM), Online (Th 5:00PM - 6:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): TBD
Instructor: Keith Crisman
Required Textbook: TBD
SPST 570. Advanced Topics in Space Studies. 1-3 Credits.
Lecture, discussion and readings on advanced topics of current interest. May be repeated if the topic is different. Repeatable.
This course explores space power theory as a foundation for national security strategy in the space domain. Defining space power as “the nation's ability to exploit the space environment to achieve national goals and purposes," the course will cover a variety of military theorists and theories and how Space Power Theory has evolved since the late 1950s. Emphasis will be on development of a modern unified theory of space power suitable for use by policy makers when developing national security strategy. The course will specifically contrast Mahanian, Geopolitical, and Earth-based approaches to space power theory. This theory will be linked to the larger concept of national power in an international environment. Students completing this course should be more well-equipped to expand their studies into international politics, space economics, and space law as well as have a strong foundation for further study of military space programs.
Offered: Online (W 6:00PM - 9:00PM)
Area (Sub-Discipline): TBD
Instructor: David Kugler
Required Textbooks:
- Spacepower Ascendant: Space Development Theory and a New Space Strategy by Joshua Carlson (2020) independently published. ISBN-13: 979-8655659230
- Developing National Power in Space: A Theoretical Model by Brent Ziarnick (2015) McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers. ISBN-13: 978-0786494996
SPST 590. Space Studies Colloquium. 1 Credit.
A series of lectures presented by visiting lecturers and faculty. May be repeated for up to 2 credits. S/U grading.
Offered: On-Campus (M 5:00PM - 7:00PM), Online (M 5:00PM - 7:00PM)
Instructor: Keith Crisman
SPST 595. Space Studies Capstone. 3 Credits.
The capstone course integrates, extends and applies knowledge gained in earlier Space Studies courses and reading. The major component of this course is a collaborative team project inter-relating policy, technology and science. This course is required for students who select the non-thesis option and can be taken after completing at least 25 credits in the program or completion of the curriculum breadth requirements. The course concludes with a required week-long capstone experience on the UND campus in the spring. Prerequisites: SPST 501, SPST 502, SPST 997, Comprehensive Exam, Graduate school status, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher and instructor permission. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Will graduate in the calendar year; either in Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters. S.
Offered: Online (Tu 7:00PM - 8:00PM)
Instructor: Ronald Fevig
Summer 2023
| Number | Title | Instructor | Area (Sub-Discipline) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 570 | Geopolitics of Space | Francisco Del Canto Viterale | Social (History OR Policy) |
| 581 | Field Visits to Space Centers | Michael Dodge | Social (History OR Policy) |