Space Systems
After completing a master's degree in Space Systems, you will understand how satellites and space probes are developed and used, within strict requirements set by user needs, technology, operating environment, and economy.
About the programme
From the construction of satellites to the exploration of planets – this programme will teach you about the development and use of systems in space. You will learn how space systems can meet the needs of society nationally and internationally, including security, environmental monitoring, and support of the UN sustainable development goals. Satellites offer fantastic opportunities, but must be built to survive the launch, and to flawlessly perform demanding tasks in orbit for many years. Thus, space technology is a very broad field, and a very versatile skill. Building things for operation in space requires the highest standards of quality. If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere!
You will learn about the different functionalities and properties required of a satellite for it to function over time in space and to communicate with ground stations. The programme includes satellite construction, orbit mechanics, launch options, and an overview of the environment in space. You will also learn how to test satellites on the ground to ensure that they will work in space. Not least, satellite payload design for tasks like imaging, surveillance, navigation, and communication will be covered. A central topic in the programme is the system aspects in the development of small satellites for earth observation, as well as instruments for the exploration of moons and planets.
In this programme, you will become familiar with the space industry and space research, both nationally and internationally. An important theme will be the exploitation of commercial technology in the "new space" paradigm, aiming for simpler, faster, and less costly development cycles, launches, and operations.
Work with high-tech expertise
The study program is organised under the Department of Technology Systems (ITS) based at Kjeller (near Lillestrøm, northeast of Oslo), the site of several major research institutes and technology businesses. ITS is located next to the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) and the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE) and benefits from numerous collaborations with these and other entities at Kjeller.
ITS hosts the Center for Space Sensors and Systems (CENSSS), a research centre with a range of space-related activities funded by the Research Council of Norway. A part of CENSSS is the operations centre for the RIMFAX ground penetrating radar, which has been developed in Kjeller and now is operating on the NASA Perseverance rover on Mars. CENSSS analyzes the data to contribute to the understanding of Mars geology and the search for ice and water on Mars. CENSSS is also building an own satellite for earth observation. The research at CENSSS offers many opportunities for master's thesis projects.
The study programme emphasizes collaborative and problem based learning where students can work on tasks taken from real space projects, at CENSSS and collaborating institutions, nationally and internationally.
Benefits of studying in Kjeller
Students in this programme will become integrated in their research groups in Kjeller. ITS offers nice office space for your work, as well as opportunities for social interaction. Students have access to a well-equipped makerspace, and can vary with a round of table tennis, or exercise in the gym. ITS has a student union, UNIKUM, offering both social and study-related events.
Master's students have access to the department's makerspace with workshops and 3D printers.
Career and further studies
With a master's degree in space systems, you will have a wide range of career opportunities in research and in industry. Candidates with these qualifications are in high demand both in governmental institutions and private industry, for example the Norwegian Space Agency, KONGSBERG, or EIDEL. Candidates will also be attractive for jobs in other sectors, not least where running complex projects, or building things that work, is what matters.