The Importance of Aerospace Engineering to Society
It’s safe to say the aerospace industry has come a long way since the days of hot air balloons and kites. And, as time progresses, so does its impact on society as a whole. Aerospace engineers play a colossal part in that impact, making their role an integral part of society and our day-to-day lives as we know them.
From commercial flights to space exploration, GPS technology to medical advancements, aerospace engineering has changed the trajectory of the way we explore our planet and the universe beyond it and will continue to change it for years to come.
But why is aerospace engineering so important to society? And how will it continue to impact our future?
Aerospace Engineering Societal Impact
Without even looking so far as future advancements, it’s clear to see just how integral aerospace engineering is to society today:
Aeronautics
Aeronautical engineering underpins the design and production of commercial and military aircraft. It’s the basis of what has enabled us to both explore our planet and protect it. It has also allowed us to make significant advancements in materials science and propulsion, which can be applied to other areas of society.
Avionics
Avionics engineering has allowed for society-altering advancements in communication and navigation systems in aircraft. Not only has this meant safer air travel, but it has also made GPS navigation readily available for society as a whole.
Astronautics
Engineering in astronautics is what allowed us to put man on the moon, and it continues to open up possibilities for further space exploration and travel. We know what we know about the universe because of astronautic engineering, and we will continue to learn more about it as technology advances further.
Future Impact of Aerospace Engineering
As if the current importance of aerospace engineering to society wasn’t enough, its impact is only continuing to grow. Current and future advancements that are beginning to impact society include:
Electric aircraft – as the fight to protect the planet from climate change continues, the development of electric aircraft is revolutionary and expected to be utilized for short-haul flights and UAVs in the near future.
Autonomous flight – the development of automatic flight systems aboard unmanned aircraft means more possibility where carrying out aerial surveys and inspections is concerned.
Hypersonic flight – hypersonic flight involves ‘flying at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound.’ As technology in this area advances, hypersonic flight has ‘potential applications in military and civilian sectors, such as developing high-speed passenger planes or hypersonic missiles.’
Aerospace engineering’s contribution to and importance in society is unmatched. Each aerospace engineering role is crucial to the continued development of aerospace technology. Whether it be advancements in aircraft and spacecraft design, medical technology, military procedures, GPS and beyond, aerospace engineering will continue to be an integral part of life as we know it, and the future of society.
Fly High in Aerospace Engineering
If you’re looking to kickstart a career in aerospace engineering, Mackinnon & Partners can help. Please get in touch for more information.
Source: https://mackinnonandpartners.com/why-is-aerospace-engineering-important-to-society/