Space Fundamentals
Discover the future of space exploration, why we go, how missions work, and what Earth observation, space law, human survival, and the space economy mean for us all. Learn the science, strategy, and innovation driving our journey beyond Earth.
| Length | 6 weeks |
|---|---|
| Effort | 1-2 hours per week |
| Level | Introductory |
Unlock the world of space exploration and its impact on our future.
From satellites guiding disaster response to the legal frameworks shaping international cooperation, this course explores the science, strategy, and innovation that make space a critical frontier for humanity.
Across six engaging modules, you’ll gain a foundational understanding of:
- Why Space?
- How Space Works
- Earth Observation
- Space Law
- Humans in Space
- The Space Economy
Who should join?
This course is designed for learners worldwide - students, professionals, and curious minds alike - who want to understand the technologies, policies, and opportunities shaping our journey beyond Earth.
Space Fundamentals is a foundational self-paced short course that introduces learners to the basics of space science and highlights that people from diverse backgrounds, and all walks of life, can be part of the rapidly growing space industry.
What you'll learn
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Module 1: Why Space?
The first module will include an overview of the modern space industry, and explore the commercial, scientific and strategic reasons that we go to space:
- Why we go to space?
- The strategic reasons for going to the Moon
- The scientific benefits of space exploration
- Private companies and the commercialisation of space
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Module 2: How Space Works?
The second module will cover basic concepts of a mission:
- How space missions work
- The way we work with satellites
- How we communicate with satellites
- Launching spacecraft
- Monitoring our spacecraft
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Module 3: Earth Observation
The third module will introduce Earth observation tools (e.g., satellites, remote sensing):
- Earth observation for climate change
- Earth observation for disaster response
- Earth observation and agriculture
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Module 4: Space Law
The fourth module will focus on how legal frameworks impact current and future activities in outer space:
- The foundations of space law
- Who is space for?
- How do we ensure equitable access to space?
- How do we prevent conflict in space?
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Module 5: Humans in Space
The fifth module will explore the challenges and innovations involved in sustaining human life beyond Earth, including:
- Our reasons for sending humans into space
- Surviving in space
- Setting up long-term human habitation
- Private companies and our visions for the future
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Module 6: The Space Economy
The final module will explain the space economy including its key drivers and challenges, including:
- Key drivers, players and investment
- Upstream and downstream services
- The future outlook of the space economy