Understanding Space is designed for three audiences: newcomers who have no prior space background and need to get up to speed quickly; cross-disciplinary engineers and managers (systems, software, mechanical, etc.) who are now working on space programs and need context for how their work fits the bigger picture; and experienced practitioners from adjacent fields — program managers, analysts, contracting officers — who need to understand space mission constraints and trade-offs without becoming specialists. No prior engineering background is required.

No. The course is explicitly designed to build foundational knowledge without getting lost in technical depth. Mathematical content is limited to basic orbit and system parameter calculations that provide practical context — things like estimating orbital period or link margin. The goal is space literacy and mission context, not engineering derivation.

The course covers three main areas. First, space in our lives: why space matters, how missions are structured, the space enterprise, and systems engineering fundamentals. Second, orbits and trajectories: the space environment, orbital mechanics, orbit design and maneuvering, ascent and re-entry. Third, space systems: payloads, spacecraft subsystems, human spaceflight, rocket propulsion, and launch vehicles. The on-demand version includes 24 lessons with video and quizzes; the live version runs 2–3 days onsite or virtually.

Yes. The course is available with a live instructor delivered on-site at your facility or through a virtual platform. TSTI has delivered Understanding Space to defense and government organizations including USSF, NRO, and NASA. It can be customized to emphasize national security space applications, remote sensing, or specific mission domains relevant to your organization. Contact TSTI to discuss scheduling and contracting options, including GSA schedule delivery.

The live version (2–3 days, onsite or virtual) is instructor-led, allows real-time Q&A, and includes hands-on exercises. Participants receive printed course notes and an e-copy of the Understanding Space textbook. The on-demand version is self-paced, consists of 24 lessons with video and quizzes, and takes most students 24–35 hours to complete over a 120-day access window. The on-demand version is priced at $99. The textbook is not included with the on-demand version.