Aeronautic engineering, also referred to as aeronautical engineering and aerospace engineering, deals mostly with technology development associated with aviation, defense, and space exploration. It is specifically involved in the design, construction, and testing of aircraft, as well as in the maintenance and operations of military or commercial aircraft, satellites, and spacecrafts. There are generally two branches of aeronautic engineering — astronautical and aeronautical engineering. Astronautical engineering is mostly about flight technology being utilized in outer space. Aeronautical engineering deals exclusively with those used within the atmosphere of the Earth.
There are several components of aeronautic engineering. Among them are propulsion, aerodynamics, avionics, and noise control. Propulsion is defined as the force that allows an airplane to move in the air. It uses the aircraft design and engine implementation in keeping the aircraft in motion during its flight. Aerodynamic specialists study the interaction between the air and the moving object. This aspect places special emphasis on the design of aircraft wings or airfoils.
Avionic experts are particularly involved in the program and design of computer systems inside the aircraft. Noise control engineers usually study the mechanism of noise or sound transfer. Another important component of aeronautic engineering is the flight test. These engineers are often involved in the execution of flight tests in order to assess the performance, design, and other certification requirements of an aircraft.
Most aeronautic engineering professionals have been trained to develop the various equipment onboard the aircraft. These include different electronic controls that provide information on such elements as climate, air pressure, seating arrangement, and landing gear. Their jobs often need them to be mentally alert, physically fit, and to have excellent eye for details. They are also usually under the direction of other senior aeronautic engineers. Many successful aeronautic engineers have developed the technical, manual, and mechanical skills necessary for the advancement of their careers.
A graduate of an aeronautic engineering program is expected to have the basic knowledge in several areas of aeronautic engineering. He can, however, pursue a master's degree or doctorate degree in a specific field of study. Examples of these specializations are instrumentation and communications, structural designs, and navigation and control systems. Some graduates may also work on one particular product design such as passenger planes, rockets, helicopters, or military aircraft.
There are several universities offering the course to qualified individuals. An individual who graduated with a degree in aeronautic engineering is usually called an aeronautical engineer. This is also considered a high-paying career with many benefits.