As you gaze upon the sky, planes, helicopters, rockets and even blimps may pass you by; their creators – aerospace engineers – work tirelessly to make this a reality.
Spacecraft engineers are an important subcategory of aerospace engineers that focus on designing machines to operate in space. Spacecraft engineering is one of two main categories within this discipline.
History
Spacecraft engineers utilize their knowledge in engineering, physics and other disciplines to design and construct vehicles capable of traveling beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Additionally, they research how these vehicles can be launched, controlled and operated within outer space; this field is known as aerospace engineering with two subdisciplines – aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering.
Spacecraft engineering was inaugurated on 17 December 1903 when the Wright brothers successfully performed four flights at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina – an event which marked the birth of modern aviation and led to a century-long exploration of space.
Spacecraft engineers currently enjoy many career options. Some work as educators or conduct research and development to advance the industry; others oversee creation and delivery of products while meeting quality standards and deadlines; some also inspect or repair products.
Education
Spacecraft engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. This degree specializes in the theory, technology, and practice of flight within Earth’s atmosphere, with students typically spending four years full time studying before graduating – although part-time students may take longer due to taking fewer courses each semester.
Bachelor degrees in aerospace engineering cover subjects such as physics, chemistry and math. Spacecraft engineers should also possess expertise with CAD software and engineering analysis tools; as well as being adept in working effectively within teams.
Some spaces engineers pursue graduate degrees in their field, such as a master’s degree. Completing such a program typically takes two to three years depending on an individual student’s schedule; some universities provide accelerated programs which enable students to obtain both bachelor’s and master’s degrees within five years.
Job duties
Aerospace engineers work in multidisciplinary teams to conceptualize, design, and produce aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles for use by aircraft carriers and missile launchers. Prototypes must meet safety and quality standards before final production begins; to do this effectively they use their expertise in mathematics, science, thermodynamics, avionics mechanics and production methods in designing air and space vehicles.
They provide guidance during the manufacturing process and ensure compliance with industry regulations, analyze project requests and proposals, provide technical expertise and conduct basic and applied research on materials and equipment that could be applicable for aerospace design and manufacture.
Cornell spacecraft engineering students specialize in conceptualizing, designing and constructing satellites and space systems. Senior design projects like the ICE Cubesat and two CUSat inspection satellites give them practical experience and apply their skills directly in real world applications. Furthermore, Cornell faculty research programs cover formation flight studies, space-borne robots, celestial mechanics and adaptive control – which prepare these students for careers in an ever-evolving field.
Career outlook
With commercial space travel becoming an increasing reality, qualified engineers have ample career prospects in spacecraft engineering. A bachelor’s degree is typically necessary; for advanced positions or leadership opportunities such as leading research programs or positions of advanced responsibility. A master’s in aerospace engineering or Ph.D. provides further specialization that could open doors to leadership roles or advanced research positions.
Spacecraft engineering jobs offer more than career advancement opportunities; they also come with other advantages that make life better for millions of Americans. One such advantage is being among an industry that takes immense pride in making products to provide national security and enhance life quality for millions.
Aerospace engineering jobs appear to be in good supply, driven by strong demand from both the airline industry and technology that depends on satellite technology like GPS. Furthermore, rising military spending and cyber security concerns should provide employment opportunities in this field; most aerospace engineering positions are found with government agencies like NASA or defense contractors/manufacturers.