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Bulletin Archive

This archived information is dated to the 2008-09 academic year only and may no longer be current.

For currently applicable policies and information, see the current Stanford Bulletin.

Undergraduate courses in Aeronautics and Astronautics

In this section:

AA 100. Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics

AA 113N. Structures: Why Things Don't (and Sometimes Do) Fall Down

AA 115N. The Global Positioning System: Where on Earth are We, and What Time is It?

AA 190. Directed Research and Writing in Aero/Astro

AA 199. Independent Study in Aero/Astro

Up one level:

Aeronautics and Astronautics (AA) Courses

AA 100. Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics

The principles of fluid flow, flight, and propulsion; the creation of lift and drag, aerodynamic performance including take-off, climb, range, and landing performance, structural concepts, propulsion systems, trajectories, and orbits. The history of aeronautics and astronautics. Prerequisites: MATH 41, 42; elementary physics. GER:DB-EngrAppSci

3 units, Aut (MacCormack, R)

AA 113N. Structures: Why Things Don't (and Sometimes Do) Fall Down

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. How structures created by nature or built by human beings keep things up and keep things in. Topics: nature's structures from microorganisms to large vertebrae; buildings from ancient dwellings to modern skyscrapers; spacecraft and airplanes; boats from ancient times to America's Cup sailboats, and how they win or break; sports equipment from Odysseus's bow to modern skis; and biomedical devices including bone replacements and cardiovascular stents. How composite materials are used to make a structure light and strong. GER:DB-EngrAppSci

3 units, Win (Springer, G)

AA 115N. The Global Positioning System: Where on Earth are We, and What Time is It?

Preference to freshmen. Why people want to know where they are: answers include cross-Pacific trips of Polynesians, missile guidance, and distraught callers. How people determine where they are: navigation technology from dead-reckoning, sextants, and satellite navigation (GPS). Hands-on experience. How GPS works; when it does not work; possibilities for improving performance. GER:DB-EngrAppSci

3 units, not given this year

AA 190. Directed Research and Writing in Aero/Astro

For undergraduates. Experimental or theoretical work under faculty direction, and emphasizing development of research and communication skills. Written report(s) and letter grade required; if this is not appropriate, enroll in 199. Consult faculty in area of interest for appropriate topics, involving one of the graduate research groups or other special projects. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of student services manager and instructor. WIM

3-5 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

AA 199. Independent Study in Aero/Astro

Directed reading, lab, or theoretical work for undergraduate students. Consult faculty in area of interest for appropriate topics involving one of the graduate research groups or other special projects. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.

1-5 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

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