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The BSc Space Science at RMIT University: first graduates in 2022

Presented by:

Gail Iles

Gail Iles

RMIT University

 

Brett Carter

RMIT University

 

Gary Bryant

RMIT University

 

Suelynn Choy

RMIT University

 

The Bachelor in Space Science at RMIT University was first offered as a three-year undergraduate degree in 2020. Enrolment numbers have been consistent with an intake of 50 students per year. The degree contains 24 courses in the program, covering physics, mathematics, engineering, geospatial science, programming and space studies. Four new courses have been developed as core subjects in the degree covering the topics of space weather, human spaceflight, space situational awareness, rocket science and microgravity science. Such dedicated space courses are not being offered currently at any other tertiary institution in Australia. On these courses, students participate in a space weather prediction exercise co-designed with Space Weather Services in the Bureau of Meteorology. Students also have the opportunity to participate in international space situational awareness exercises with Australian, North American and European space companies Students design, build and launch a drone and a G-class rocket in second year. In the final year, students convert a benchtop science experiment into a 2U payload which they design, build and fly on board a parabolic flight. A key focus of the degree is to prepare students to work and remain in Australia and to boost the Australian space industry. Historically, Australians have moved overseas to pursue careers in space, draining the country of talent and stunting the development of widespread expertise. Therefore, this degree has been designed to include a high level of Australian industry engagement. Connections to industry professionals begin when students receive guest lectures from companies such as Saber Astronautics, HEO Robotics, Equatorial Launch Australia and Gilmour Space Technologies. Industry connections continue through the degree with more guest lectures, work experience opportunities and final year projects available to students. In 2022, approximately 30% of the final year students are undertaking projects with Southern Launch, Beings Systems, Electro Optic Systems and Space Machines Company.

Category:

Education, training, outreach

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