VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

151-0106-00L 4 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-ERDW , D-PHYS

Orbital Dynamics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Anna Alexandra Kubik
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:36

Abstract

Principles of the motion of natural and artificial satellites, rocket dynamics, orbital maneuvers and interplanetary missions.

Objective

Knowledge of the basic theory of satellite dynamics. Ability to apply the acquired theory to simple examples.

Content

The two-body problem, rocket dynamics, orbital maneuvers, interplanetary missions, the restricted three-body problem, perturbation equations.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Written and typed lecture notes will be provided.

Literature

Books will be recommended in class.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
issued formulary (without annotations)pocket calculator (non-programmable, no web-access, cleared memory)
There is a written final exam at the end of the semester, covering all material taught in the course. Additionally, there will be one continuous performance assessment task during the semester. The interim examination, which takes place roughly in the middle of the semester, is optional. It assesses the student’s understanding of the topics covered so far and contributes 25% to the final grade, but only if it improves the final grade.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Orbital Dynamics
  • Tue 10:15-13:00 (HG D 5.2)
3 h weekly

Offered In

  • Mechanical Engineering Master
    • Core Courses (The Core Courses in the Master’s program Mechanical Engineering listed below are indicative and include courses designed by the Department at the Master's level. With the approval of the tutor, students may also select Master's-level courses offered by other departments at ETH. These courses will be marked as non-regular in the LAG, but their categorization as Core Courses is possible if included in the approved LAG.)
  • Space Systems Master