University General Course Catalog 2025-2026 
    
    Dec 05, 2025  
University General Course Catalog 2025-2026

AE 471 - Orbital Mechanics

(3 units)
Analysis of orbits in an inverse-square gravitational field; elementary rocket dynamics, impulsive orbit transfer and rendezvous; patched-conic trajectories, planetary gravity-assist maneuvers, and linearized orbit theory with application to simplified analytical models; perturbations.   

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Prerequisite(s): AE 345  

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. 
2.  acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies. 


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