Aerospace

Flight allows for fast and safe travel over long distances, as well as timely transportation of goods and emergency services. The aerospace industry operates in a variety of settings which create a basis for competitiveness and advancement of the field. These settings include domestic and foreign governments, defense and security, space exploration, research, and public and private travel. Individuals working within the aerospace industry occupy roles in manufacturing, sales, design, maintenance and transportation. 

Aerospace Industry Disciplines

Two main disciplines make up the aerospace industry: 

• Aeronautics | The study of flight
• Astronautics | The study of travel beyond the earth's atmosphere

Aeronautical Engineers work with aircraft. They are involved primarily in designing aircraft and propulsion systems and in studying the aerodynamic performance of aircraft and construction materials. They work with the theory, technology, and practice of flight within the Earth's atmosphere. 

Astronautical Engineers work with the science and technology of spacecraft and how they perform inside and outside the Earth's atmosphere. This includes work on small satellites such as CubSats and traditional large satellites. 

Engineering Functional Needs

A variety of technologies, science and industries are needed to produce the products, services, and scientific understanding that make up the aerospace industry. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, production and professional jobs account for more than half of the jobs in the industry including engineers, scientists, technicians, computer programmers, pilots, mechanics, graphic arts and administrators to name a few. 

Engineers and other scientists work on the development and production of safe, efficient equipment. Their work includes: 

• Studies of the atmosphere and space
• Improvement of the usefulness, performance, speed, safety and efficiency of combat, aeronautical and space vehicles
• Development and operation of vehicles capable of carrying instruments, equipment, supplies and living organisms through space and throughout the atmosphere
• Defense research that involves surveillance, tracking and other systems allowing users to maintain visual, audio, and long-range contact.

Aerospace companies can be defense contractors, commercial companies or both. Many companies provide both defense products (missiles, aircraft, electronics) as well as commercial products such as commercial aircraft or satellites.

Industry Sectors

Products of the aerospace industry can be separated into three sectors: 

• Space | Space challenges the frontiers of higher speeds and safer, more efficient operations of air and spacecraft. Engineers tackle questions such as: Will the engine fire as planned? Will the power source continue to produce electricity? 
• Military | Aerospace technology is a vital part of the national security of the United States. The Department of Defense contracts with private aerospace companies to procure the manufacturing, scientific, research, and engineering resources to promote national security. 
• Commercial | Whether for passenger or freight use, commercial aircraft makes up the largest portion of the aerospace industry's sales. Business needs and the traveling public continue to fuel the growth of the industry.