UC3M’s Department of Aerospace Engineering launches its first continuing education course on Electric Space Propulsion

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) presents its first continuing education course dedicated to Electric Space Propulsion, one of the key technologies shaping the future of space exploration.

Currently, electric (or plasma) propulsion systems are installed in 70% of spacecraft —low Earth orbit constellations, geostationary satellites, and deep-space probes— thanks to their lower cost compared to chemical propulsion in missions requiring high mobility.

Target audience

• Graduate students or final-year undergraduates in science or engineering

• Professionals in aerospace and related sectors seeking solid physical-technical foundations

The program covers five main topics:

1. Present and future of in-space electric propulsion.
2. Gridded ion engines (most suitable for deep-space missions).
3. Hall-effect thrusters (dominant for Earth orbit and selected for the Lunar Gateway).
4. Advanced electric propulsion technologies (currently under research).
5. Diagnostics and validation testing (hands-on lab session at the Department).

Key details

• Duration: 16 hours

• Language: English

• Mode & venue: On-site, Leganés Campus

• Dates: 29 September – 3 October 2025

• Schedule: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 5:30–8:30 pm; Wed: 4:30–7:00 pm (total 16 h)

• Fee: €300

• Scholarships: 18 Banco Santander full-tuition scholarships

More info & scholarships: https://www.uc3m.es/formacion-permanente/Microcredencial-In-Space-Electric-Propulsion