about courses

What is Rocket Science

The broad term rocket science usually denotes the complex set of principles that govern the engineering of a rocket, a device that fires internal fuel and uses the fuel’s kinetic energy to propel itself, at least to me.

Rocket science, therefore, covers a vast subset of fields. It’s not for nothing that aerospace engineers are often considered Jack of all trades.

The first field is dynamics. Locally, moments of inertia, masses, torques, etc., are all important. This alone could cover half a team. There’s the astrodynamics section as well, covering trajectory and mission planning. Governing equations: Newtonian.

Then there’s the whole set of the chemistry of electromagnetically that cover energy storage. Chemical balances, stoichiometry, etc are this part of rocket science.

Following that is a set of thermodynamics or plasma dynamics, covering either chemical or electric propulsion. This is usually a job for another whole team.

Next, the effects of the atmosphere on the rocket. Aerodynamics, space environment, and two other whole fields of physics and astronomy.

After that, structures. A set of physics and chemistry, some solid-state physics. Another team. Systems, feedback… all of these add up to a monumental problem. It is indeed rocket science.

Rocket Scientists 

are aerospace engineers who specialize in the design and manufacture of spacecraft. They work with the principles of science and engineering to create vehicles that fly within or above the Earth’s atmosphere. The job of a rocket scientist requires proficiency in physics, chemistry, aerodynamics, propulsion, communications, and mathematics. A bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, while many candidates choose to pursue graduate degrees to enhance their career prospects.

Rocket Scientists’ Duties

Rocket scientists and aerospace engineers generally work on the design and testing of rocket-propelled vehicles, such as orbiting spacecraft or missiles. They could specialize in a particular area of aerospace engineering, such as space exploration vehicles or defense systems. They might also choose to focus on a particular component of spacecraft, such as acoustics, aerodynamics, propulsion, or guidance systems.

Duties can include designing aerospace vehicles or systems, overseeing the manufacture and fabrication of projects, devising testing methods, or developing quality criteria for spacecraft systems, such as communications or fuel systems. Within their design processes, rocket scientists need to determine the most efficient and effective placement for instrumentation and controls to assure ease of use for manned vehicles or connectivity for unmanned spacecraft. Other tasks can include assessing the results of quality control inspections to ensure the aerospace system meets necessary specifications and developing reports or handbooks for operators who use the equipment or vehicles.

How difficult is rocket science?

Rockets are intuitively simple but frighteningly difficult to actually create at the performance extremes that we need to put them into space

Career Prospects

After completing a degree, you can fulfill your dream of becoming a rocket scientist by directly applying for positions with organizations of your choice. You would have a higher chance of getting your dream job if you have a history of internships with the organization, although that’s not an essential criterion.

Having research or training experience in rocket science can be extremely rewarding as you will get real-world exposure, discover network opportunities and augment your resume altogether.

In a challenging field like Rocket Science, higher studies encompass a quintessential step for aspirants to understand the rigorous design and development of spacecraft. It is a great way of improving and polishing your skills and knowledge to become one of the best experts in your field.