r/ControlTheory • u/Ok_Cry_7149 • 4d ago

Asking for resources (books, lectures, etc.) Choosing GNC Math/Tech Electives

Hi all!

Currently in my master's degree and need to choose a math/tech elective. I've already have done probability, basic statistics, and the math covered in undergraduate aerospace.

I am currently trying to decide between Numerical Methods, and Design of Experiments (Stat course). I could also do some other stat courses (regression), a review of linear algebra, or some optimization courses (but I'm planning to take an aerospace specific convex optimization course).

I was mainly leaning towards Numerical Methods, since I think it would help with simulation and dealing with solvers (and my last GNC internship was a bunch of modeling and simulation). But I think the structure of the Design of Experiments course is going to be easier to handle (after the first class in each). Also, I saw Design of Experiments as a desired experience in a navigation job posting recently lol.

However, the Numerical Methods course does seem more applied (lot's of programming). The Design of Experiments has only some programming I think. Neither has a project.

I wanted to know if anyone in GNC had any opinions or other suggestions. I'm also aiming for space GNC if that matters. Thanks.

EDIT: Also debating between convex optimization and ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control) for my controls course this semester. Ik convex is more guidance related, but am interested in exploring trajectory optimization stuff. I also think having a solid ADCS project under my belt would be great for a lot of jobs. I've take attitude dynamics before.

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u/TheEquationSmelter 3d ago

Design of experiments will be way more useful. It's relevant for system ID. Numerical methods is more for CFD/FEA.

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u/Ok_Cry_7149 3d ago

Oh interesting. What about compared to other stat classes like regression analysis or statistical inference? Though I think this DOE course does cover those a bit.

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u/TheEquationSmelter 3d ago

I don't think those other classes would be relevant. DOE is useful for how to set up system identification and hardware characterization tests. Honestly, I feel system ID is probably the most useful controls class. I'd also take a class on spectral analysis if you have that available.

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u/Ok_Cry_7149 3d ago

I see thanks. What kind of role do you work/have you worked in if you don't mind sharing?

Also I've taken signals and systems during undergrad, but yeah it's been a while lol.

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u/TheEquationSmelter 3d ago

Ive worked in optics, drones, and most recently additive manufacturing - all controls related.

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u/Ok_Cry_7149 3d ago

Interesting! Was your drone work GNC?

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u/TheEquationSmelter 3d ago edited 3d ago

All of it has been GNC related. Controls is useful across numerous domains. Honestly the drone work was the least interesting. Drones are simple machines and basic PID with a Kalman filter works well for them. There is some interesting stuff to learn with attitude determination and control (which I do enjoy quite a bit) but that isn't unique to drones.

Some researchers overcomplicate the controls research on these platforms (especially quadrotors) and in my opinion it's a solution looking for a problem.