THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELING

Course objectives

After this course, the student will be able to: - Know the different types of gossamer structures - Understand pros and cons of using specific gossamer structure for a mission - Select materials based on project requirements and operative environment to realize a large structure - Understand the rational manufacturing techniques to realize gossamer structures - Know and understand the deployable technological solutions including kirigami and origami techniques - Know and understand the current state-of-art of manufacturing processes for ISRU - Understand the principles to design habitats on Moon and Mars - Understand how to realize a space suit - Understand how to apply nanotechnology for space applications

Channel 1
SUSANNA LAURENZI Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
ntroduction to the concept of nanotechnology. Description of the various types of nanomaterials for aerospace applications. Functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs): covalent and non-covalent methods. Polymers reinforced with CNTs and graphene: fabrication of nanocomposite materials; effects of nanofillers on processing aspects (dispersion, rheology, kinetics). New materials for interplanetary missions. Structure–process–performance relationships: structural design. Mechanical and environmental characterization of aerospace materials and structures. Definition, objectives, and types of gossamer structures. Materials, manufacturing, and technological solutions for deployable structures made from ultralight composites. Technological solutions for the deployment of gossamer structures. Analytical models for winding, stowage, and deployment of tape-like structures. Analytical model of snap-through stabilization in equal-sense and opposite-sense configurations. ISMA (In-Space Manufacturing) technologies and manufacturing techniques for ISRU (In Situ Resource Utilization). Additive manufacturing techniques in space. Definition of regolith and of lunar and Martian regolith simulants. Mechanical and radiation-shielding properties of regolith-based composite materials. Processes and techniques currently developed and under study. Design of human habitats on the Moon and Mars in line with current international space programs.
Prerequisites
basic knowledge of the aerospace field typically acquired by the student during the first year of the master's degree in aerospace engineering
Books
teacher's notes
Frequency
Attendance is not mandatory but is highly recommended.
Exam mode
The assessment of the student's preparation consists of oral questions regarding topics covered in the course. The same questions can also be made in writing form. The evaluation of the oral test constitutes 85% of the final evaluation. The assessment will be carried out for each topic on a scale of thirty points as follows: minimal knowledge (evaluation between 18 and 20), average knowledge (21-23), adequate ability to apply knowledge (24-25), good ability to apply knowledge (26-28), excellent ability to apply knowledge with strong communication skills and critical thinking (29-30).
Lesson mode
Lectures in the classroom (90%) and laboratory experiences (approximately 10%).
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • CourseSpace and astronautical engineering
  • CurriculumSpacecraft design and integration (percorso formativo valido anche ai fini del conseguimento del doppio titolo con Georgia institute of technology and Georgia Tech Lorraine)
  • Year2nd year
  • Semester2nd semester
  • SSDING-IND/04
  • CFU3