Career Options for Individuals With an Aerospace Engineering Degree
Aerospace is a generic term used to combine aerospace and outer space science. Aerospace activity is tremendously varied, having a myriad of military, commercial and civilian applications. Aerospace engineering includes astronautics and aeronautics. It also includes satellite and aerospace technologies and application. Aerospace is an umbrella term including spaceflight, which is mainly concerned with unmanned and manned space exploration; and, human spaceflight, which involve human spaceflight and research into how humans can live and work in space.
Astronomy is the study of celestial objects and their movement around the earth. Astronomy is an important branch of aerospace engineering and science, requiring advanced knowledge of both astronomy and aerodynamics. Astronomy and space research also form an important component of astronautics, providing data and knowledge needed for the design and operation of space vehicles and systems. Astronomy also deals with spaceborne technologies such as optics, solar radiation and GPS/remote control systems. Astronomy also applies to high-energy and low-mass space technologies, such as solar sails and wind sails. Astronomy also encompasses the detection, tracking and imaging of celestial bodies in our solar system and other stars.
Aerospace production refers to the systematic development of aircraft, spacecraft, rocket, defense and space vehicles. Aerospace manufacturing requires rigorous requirements including design, engineering, testing, production, and operation. Aerohydrodynamic, or AEO, strategies include optimized airflow, optimized pressure, and stable and consistent temperatures at all times during flight. Aerospace manufacturing generally includes components fabrication, systems development, programmability and simulation, and aerospace hardware. The term is also applied to the aerospace material handling, production, and assembly.
The United States is the leading nation in aerospace development. NASA is a national agency of the United States government that is dedicated to space exploration. In addition to human spaceflight, NASA is responsible for space research, using space technology to achieve the ultimate goals of space exploration. NASA has space shuttles, stations, and space planes.
There are two organizations within NASA that are responsible for developing and operating the U.S. space program. Two such organizations are the Aerospace Systems Development Test Division (ASDT), and the astronaut training center at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. NASA’s Commercial Space Program, better known as the NASA Commercial orbital Vehicle (CTV), is the agency’s primary program for sending humans into space. The U.S. space program is primarily a national priority and is funded through United States federal budgets. All aerospace engineers, technicians, and support personnel must be United States citizens.
A number of private aerospace companies manufacture both aircraft and spacecraft. These companies include Boeing, Citations Multiple Sourcing (CSL), and Ball Aerospace. A number of small aerospace companies produce capsules, and shuttles designed by Ball Aerospace, Inc. These companies are working towards creating reusable spacecrafts capable of transporting astronauts to and from the International Space Station.
Engineers and technicians employed by these aerospace companies also perform work on reusable launch vehicles, capsules, and various components required to construct commercial space vehicles. They also train astronauts. In order to become an aerospace engineer, students must possess a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Students must also complete a four-year undergraduate degree from a college or university that offers classes that emphasize aerospace engineering, including a course in aerodynamics. Most cosmetology schools also offer programs that incorporate physics and chemistry to improve one’s knowledge of cosmetology.
There are numerous career options for those who complete astronautical engineering, ranging from flight controllers to engineers who design and construct the exterior structures of spacecraft. Many aerospace engineering degree programs provide opportunities to work for NASA, specifically as a flight engineer, or for commercial space flight companies. Students will often take general engineering classes that give them a good overview of how various technologies work together in the space program. Some companies even require future astronauts to have a background in flight mechanics.
