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Students exploring an interactive display of thermal isolation materials used in space
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New Space Standards Training Course 2024 a successful challenge

26/06/2024 1251 views 6 likes
ESA / Education / ESA Academy

In brief

From June 10th to 14th, 2024, the ESA Education Training and Learning Facility in ESEC-Galaxia, Belgium, served as the backdrop for the transformative journey of the Space Standards Training Course. This revamped 6th edition marks a significant leap forward, meticulously crafted in collaboration between ESA Academy and the ESA’s Requirements and Standards Section.

In-depth

The course convened 30 passionate Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD students from 15 different nationalities, converging to explore the landscape of space standards.

Student during an ESA Academy training course
Student during an ESA Academy training course

Throughout the week, participants navigated through an array of ECSS disciplines from space management, engineering, product assurance and sustainability. From the principles of space engineering and standardization to the intricate complexities of system engineering and product assurance, the course provided students with a holistic understanding of space standards’ regulatory frameworks.

“The ESA Academy Space Standards Training Course has been an amazing experience, providing me with knowledge and skills for my future in the space sector. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from passionate experts and connect with like-minded peers”, said a Hungarian student from the Budapest University of Technology and Economics.

Trainer discussing with students how to craft standards for ExoMars TGO
Trainer discussing with students how to craft standards for ExoMars TGO

The thermal engineering lecture, particularly, was accompanied by an interactive display of various physical thermal isolation materials previously used in ESA space missions, allowing students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.

The course encompassed ground-breaking subjects such as advanced and smart manufacturing & 3D printing. Participants delved into the nuanced realm of Lunar Gateway and Application of Standards, delving into collaborative endeavours between NASA, ESA, and JAXA.

Yet, the course's essence transcended traditional lectures. Students creatively crafted standards for a mission to Mars, seamlessly bridging imagination with practical application. The peak of their journey ended in an immersive exercise where they creatively engaged in a fictitious design session, stepping into the future, and conceptualizing the necessary standards for a successful hypothetic Lunar Orbital Platform Mission.

“The first-hand experience of the presenters is unquestionable; the course is providing great opportunity to interact with professionals to learn the real approach on problems in the space industry”, said a Polish student from the Gdańsk University of Technology.

Group photo outside ESA Education's training centre
Group photo outside ESA Education's training centre

As we look back on this journey, we acknowledge the dedication and skill of our team. Their hard work and expertise are driving the future of space exploration.

After the success of the 6th edition, we look forward to welcoming new aspiring space pioneers to the next Space Standards Training Course!

“This course has been an incredible experience I will never forget. It has helped me to keep working towards my dream of becoming an ESA systems engineer someday”, said a Spanish student from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.