Abstract: The problem-based teaching of the orbit design of space mission can stimulate students' enthusiasm for active learning and help students learn orbit design methods based on the theoretical knowledge of orbital mechanics in practice. It is an effective way to train students' ability of the orbit design. This paper outlines the measures of the problem-oriented teaching of the orbital mechanics, with the cases of the orbit design, to gradually cultivate students' ability of the orbit design. The selected orbit design problems are closely related to the theoretical knowledge and the teaching proceeds in an orderly way step by step, as is suitable for students' hands-on programming practice. Preliminary practice shows that a good effect can be achieved in this way.