What is Aerospace engineering: Definition and 275 Discussions

Aerospace engineering is the primary field of engineering concerned with the development of aircraft and spacecraft. It has two major and overlapping branches: aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering. Avionics engineering is similar, but deals with the electronics side of aerospace engineering.
"Aeronautical engineering" was the original term for the field. As flight technology advanced to include vehicles operating in outer space, the broader term "aerospace engineering" has come into use. Aerospace engineering, particularly the astronautics branch, is often colloquially referred to as "rocket science".

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  1. E

    Engineering Engineering physics vs. aerospace engineering

    Hey guys. I'm currently in grade 11. I'm not sure what exactly I want to do in the future but I do have plans for going for an MBA eventually. I was wondering what jobs do people with degrees in engineering physics do and if it is likely that they can also become aerospace engineers. Like most...
  2. M

    Should I go into aerospace engineering or quantum physics?

    The titular question is quite straightforward. I'm going for an honours bachelors in physics and I'm considering going for a masters in one of those fields. I don't know how well Hbsc Phys transfers to aerospace engineering, and I'm also unsure what type of branches of quantum I could go into...
  3. A

    Mathematics involved in aerospace engineering?

    Hi there, I am wondering what mathematics are involved in aerospace engineering. Thanks,
  4. A

    Undergraduate Engineering Physics To Graduate Aerospace Engineering

    Is it possible/okay to get your undergraduate degree in engineering physics and then go into graduate school and get your graduate degree in aerospace engineering> please help Thanks
  5. N

    Schools Transferring for Aerospace Engineering: Is it Worth It?

    Full title: I am in a school with a concentrated aerospace engineering degree. Should I transfer to a school that has an full aerospace engineering major? Outline of situation: - Rutgers University (New Brunswick Campus). - In-state student. - Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in...
  6. K

    Programs What minor or double major would you pick for a bs in aerospace engineering?

    "AES students are also encouraged to consider a technical minor or double major in electrical engineering, computer science, applied math, engineering physics, astrophysical and planetary sciences, or atmospheric and oceanic sciences." -CU Boulder Aerospace engineering requirements page...
  7. F

    Why Do Shocks Form in Aerospace Engineering?

    I have completed my undergraduation in aerospace engineering. Inspite of studying all subjects there is one basic question which is left unanswered for me..Why do shocks form? Can anyone answer it please?
  8. C

    Getting into aerospace engineering

    I'm currently a computer engineering student with about 10 years of programming experience, ~6 professional. Whatever field I end up in I'll be doing programming in it. I have more than a passing interest in rockets, they have always fascinated me. Within the field I am most interested...
  9. Y

    Petroleum or Aerospace Engineering? I'm torn.

    I'm currently a transfer student with about freshman equivalent credits. I'm taking all the basic classes required for most engineering degrees (Calc I-III, Chemistry, English, Physics, etc). I am now at the point where I NEED to decide which one I want to do. I have a deep love for space and...
  10. N

    How difficult is Aerospace Engineering

    I am considering going to graduate school for either ME or AERO. I know that I could handle ME considering it is what I got my degree in. I know that ME and AERO are similar but how competitive is AERO and how difficult is the course work? I am a good student. 3.11 from a tough school...
  11. N

    Eligibility for MS Aerospace Engineering.

    Eligibility for MS Aerospace Engineering. please help ! Hi, I am currently completing Undergraduate program in Electronics & Communications Engineering (due for completion in July 2012). I want to pursue MS Aerospace Engineering in the US. Can anybody please tell if I am eligible for the...
  12. C

    Continue with Aerospace Engineering or switch to Astrophysics?

    I'm a second year Aerospace Engineering student and I'm wondering if this is the best career path for me to take. Since a young kid I've always been fascinated by the universe and everything related to it. I want a career that will let me progress our knowledge of space forward whether it's via...
  13. A

    Aerospace Engineering PhD To Energy Trading/Quant

    Hello to all. I would like some feedback from anyone on here that has something substantive to say. So, I am in the process of completing my Aerospace Engineering PhD (3.9 GPA) from the University of Maryland. For those in the know regarding renown programs in the Math and Sciences, the...
  14. D

    Courses Recommended courses for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

    For reasons I won't get into I was forced to leave school for the work force very early. I got my GED when I was 20 with a very high score, but now I'm trying to join the Canadian Military to take advantage of their University subsidy program. They do not classify the GED as a full grade 12...
  15. J

    Masters in aerospace engineering

    hi everyone.i am doing bachelor in aerospace engineering.i am thinking about masters. i need some guidelines.The suitable topics for masters would be what?
  16. D

    Engineering Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

    Hi, I am a College (Sixth Form) student here in the UK aspiring to go into Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering but not quite sure which one to go into. As far as interest is concerned, I think I am leaning more toward Aerospace than Mechanical but I've heard that an Aerospace degree would...
  17. C

    Cal Poly for Aerospace Engineering?

    Hey all, I'm an aspiring Aerospace Engineer and I'd like some advice on what you guys think about the Cal Poly schools. I really like their "learn by doing" philosophy because it's great for immediate job recruitment, but not necessarily good for those who want to pursue a Ph.D. I want to...
  18. S

    Aerospace Engineering: US Pre-U Course & Best Uni

    I'm a student from Malaysia, planning to go into aerospace engineering. I really want to study in the us, but what pre-u course is good and which uni offers the best aerospace engineering in the us?
  19. G

    Weapons Developer w/ Aerospace Engineering Degree

    I'm starting my first year this fall so I wanted to find out all my paths with this degree. I will be attending Carleton Uni. Will I be able to develop weapons with a degree in aerospace engineering? I'm thinking things like missiles, rockets, RPG's, etc. What other degree should I go for...
  20. C

    Schools Aerospace Engineering University

    Usually i would only come to PF to read and browse the contents here rather than to participate. LOL but i guess I'm desperate for some advice. Alright, here's the deal. I got offered to study aerospace engineering from University of Southampton and Sheffield University. Originally, i plan...
  21. G

    Engineering Is Aerospace Engineering a good major to pursue?

    I know the field is kind of slow right now, but do you think it will pick up? It interests me a lot and I would love to work for Boeing after college. Do you think it will be in demand in 5-6 years? Thanks! Also, a kid I know wants to be one and he said all the baby boomers will retire in...
  22. G

    Engineering Is Aerospace Engineering mostly contract jobs?

    Do you basically work for a company when they get a big contract and when it is done, do you get laid off? I want to become an aerospace engineer, but I want to have a steady job to support a family. Is it work when there are contracts, and then you are out of work when they are done, or is it...
  23. G

    Programs Should I major in Aerospace engineering or Computer Science?

    Hi, I'm not sure what I should major in. They both interest me a lot. How is the job stability? How is the pay? I know how to write in Java, but I can learn more before college (I have a year). What is you input on this? Thanks
  24. T

    MSc Aerospace Engineering in Cranfield UK

    Hi guys, Just wanted to know the reputation of Cranfield University in UK, specifically for their Astronautics and Space Engineering Master Program. Is it worth to study there and what's the downside of the University (if there is any.) I tried to look for rankings and info about...
  25. G

    Engineering How stable is Aerospace Engineering? What about Mechanical Engineering?

    Which one is more stable? I heard that Aerospace Engineers get hired for a job, then get fired. I'm going to be a junior in High School next year and I'm thinking about what I want to be. Thanks!
  26. G

    Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering?

    Hi, I'm going to be a junior in High School next year and I am trying to decide what I want to be. I think i narrowed it down to Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. What would be easier to find a job with? Are they both relatively easy, or hard? I heard that if you have a...
  27. I

    So what exactly is aerospace engineering?

    Hi, Let me start with saying I am interested in physics/astrophysics but what fascinates me equally are the tools and machines used in fields I've listed. To clarify, I'm interested in space technology which led to the creation of instruments such as the James Webb Space Telescope (among many...
  28. J

    Engineering I just finished my freshman year at UT majoring in aerospace engineering

    My gpa was a 2.9. I'm already nervous about finding a job later or getting an internship or getting into grad school. Should I be?
  29. J

    Aerospace Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering

    Hi, I am currently a high school junior and I've wanted to be an Aerospace engineer for a long time. But I recently began to wonder if i could do just as well or better with a Mechanical degree. I would like to have a job dealing with airflow (fluid dynamics, aeroelasticity, structural analysis...
  30. R

    Career path in aerospace engineering.

    Hello all, Despite a lot of family discouragement, this fall I am going to choose a major in aerospace engineering. Its been a lifelong dream of mine to someday have a career that has to do with the designing of air/space crafts. It started with my curiosity in astronomy, then as a I grew...
  31. F

    Aerospace Engineering- San Jose or Cal Poly Pomona?

    Hi PhysicsForums I got accepted to both! I'm so excited but now I'm getting anxious about which one to choose. I want to work right away but I also want to continue on to graduate school. With that said, these are the pros I came up with: CPP pros: Close to more relative internships...
  32. C

    Questions about aerospace engineering career

    I am considering a career in either astronautics or aerospace engineering. I have always been interested in space travel. It's one of the few things that I actually spend time researching (along with the physics involved with it). I am hoping to work with NASA or a company such as Virgin...
  33. B

    Aerospace Engineering Science Fair - Exploring Delta Wings at Supersonic Speeds

    Im going to a science fair to promote Aerospace Engineering. Me and my team are doing a project that helps visualize vortices (throught food coloring and water currents. . .pretty usual) the main point is to talk about delta wings. Im going to specify in delta wings at super sonic speeds and...
  34. M

    Aerospace Engineering for Propulsion: Is It Worth It?

    Should I get into Aerospace engineering if I am not interested in aircraft/ spacecraft design at all? I am interested in propulsion and I will probably get an advanced degree in plasma physics or nuclear engineering. I am not sure if a degree in aerospace will give me enough background. Here...
  35. J

    What is recommended for the field of AEROSPACE ENGINEERING?

    I want to know what direction should i be taking in college, such as, what types of classes. I am also very interested in knowing the type of life style they live, i would want to know if arerospace engineering is a career for those who pursue to have a family in the future.
  36. U

    Aerospace Engineering Projects for Final Year Student

    hey guyz i am a student of aerospace engineering(6th smester). now i have to choose my final year project. can anyone give me ideas of some exciting aerospace engineering projects which involve designing, controls and febrication. m waitng for ur reply...
  37. G

    What Program to choose to transfer credits to aerospace engineering?

    I am planning on going to a University in Ontario to take a program in aerospace engineering but I may not get in, so I want to prepare for that. What program should I take in Vancouver so that I can transfer all of the credits into an aerospace engineering program a year or two down the road? I...
  38. B

    Programs What are some tips for applying to PhD programs in Aerospace Engineering?

    Hi all, long time lurker, first time poster here. I am currently working towards an MASc in Aerospace Engineering specializing in CFD of reacting flows (like in propulsion systems) at the University of Toronto in Canada. I am considering applying for a PhD in Aerospace Engineering in the...
  39. MattRob

    Engineering Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or Flying.

    Alright, I was wondering about this, and I've been researching the different lifestyles. I've got three dream jobs. 1. Aerospace Engineering: The draw is the applications of mathematics and design to constructing vehicles, and research, figuring things out, planning, and problem solving are all...
  40. A

    What are the best options for pursuing a career in aerospace engineering?

    Wow first topic in these forums, been reading them for countless hours the past two yrs. I appreciate any help I can get I am and have always been really interested in aerospace engineering. I wasn't sure I wanted to do Engsci at toronto coming out of high school, so I ended up doing a degree...
  41. S

    Making the Choice: Aerospace Engineering in CA or PA

    so basically i have a choice of staying in southern california or moving to PA (pennsylvania) next year. currently a sophomore in junior college and majoring in aerospace engineering and wanting to go into that field (obviously). can anyone give any info about both schools and career...
  42. J

    Aerospace Engineering Programs

    Hello guys, I have a couple of questions. First off, I want to introduce myself; my name is Pablo, I am 23 years old and I am an Aerospace Engineering major. I've been in school for a while chasing various disciplines, but I'm sticking with my dream; all because of my childhood love for planes...
  43. D

    Understanding the Benefits of Reflexed Trailing Edge for Aerofoil Stability

    What is the advantage of having reflexed trailing edge. How does it improve the stability of the aerofoil. Reflexed wing are generally used in tailess planes. Can anyone explain to me...with proper pressure distribution details. What i know about it is... Reflexed trailing edge and convexed...
  44. S

    Engineering Studying aerospace engineering at UCLA

    I am currently studying aerospace engineering at UCLA and was wondering if anyone had any good advice to securing a good job after college. I am going to start interning in the winter, but need some advice on what companies to look into for a good aerospace job. I found one site that lists all...
  45. Z

    Mechanical to Aerospace engineering

    Can i take mechanical engineering in undergrad and then aerospace engineering in graduate studies? Just Wondering... I'm planning on taking either mech or aerospace engineering at the University of Toronto. Then i want to do grad school in the states.
  46. S

    Choosing Between Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Degrees

    Would it be better to get a BAS in Mechanical Engineering then go for my masters in Aerospace Engineering? or just stay specific in the field of aerospace throughout college?
  47. J

    Would I work for NASA as an astronaut with a course in Aerospace Engineering?

    Hey, I'm interested in studying Aerospace Engineering when I leave high school. I have still 2 more years to go before I leave, but I'm really interested in space exploration, rockets, etc. The ultimate goal would be to work for NASA as an astronaut. At this moment, I'm taking Physics, Maths...
  48. M

    Engineering Is Aerospace Engineering for me?

    I WANT to do space research. My interests are related to space colonization. I am really interested in microgravity environments, astrodynamics, spacecraft design (not to a great extent), etc. I could tell some more but I really don't know the technical name of them in English. Thank you for...
  49. A

    Schools Aerospace engineering: strong colleges? is it a good major for me?

    Hi, I'm a senior attending an international school and am thinking of pursuing an Aerospace engineering major. I think I am passionate enough for the major, but my problem is that I cannot find a great college that also will hopefully offer financial aid to me as an international applicant. So...
  50. A

    Schools Starting college soon, planning on Aerospace Engineering

    For my entire life I've had this very strong interest for all things space. When I was younger I wanted to become an astronomer but found out several months back that there literally aren't any jobs for an astronomer. This is understandable, it's something I could do in my back yard and make new...
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