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How Space Exploration Has Increased Our Understanding of Engineering
The recent success of the James Webb Space
Telescope, as well as NASA’s recent moon launch attempt, has reignited the
imagination of the McGreevy Engineering team. This is because human space
exploration allows engineers to push
the boundaries of technology, creating
new industries and ways of thinking.
Engineers of all disciplines have helped
shape the past, current and future explorations into space, including:
·
Aerospace
engineers – who model and test
spacecraft
·
Mechanical
engineers – who design and
create hardware components
·
Computer
engineers – who design systems which
control the transportation and automation of spacecraft and satellites
·
Chemical engineers – who optimise rocket fuel to maximise
spacecraft launch and minimise environmental impacts
·
Biomedical
engineers – who design methods and
devices to keep astronauts healthy while travelling in space
There are other ways in
which space exploration continues to increase our
understanding of engineering and the practices and processes engineers use.
Collaborative Research
Space is a global industry. Recent exploration
successes have opened up new domains in science and technology, which call for engineers
from all disciplines to work together.
This allows for joint research and
development, enabling the creation of a collaborative environment made up of a diverse
and multidisciplinary team who work together to unravel the secrets of the
universe.
Attract the Younger Generation
The excitement generated by space exploration
has proved beneficial in attracting young people to careers in STEM.
The success of recent ventures into space
sends a message to students that they have the possibility of maintaining long-term
exciting careers in science and technology, confirmed by the Bureau of Labour and Statistics, which estimates that
there will be 171,900 job openings for aerospace, computer hardware,
electronics and mechanical engineers with NASA and other employers, by the year
2024.
At McGreevy
Engineering, we are committed to helping the next generation of engineers
improve their skillsets and reach their potential, so this influx of young
talent to our industry is a welcome addition.
Improved Technologies at
Home
Space exploration has resulted in amazing
engineering feats, such as the landing of humans on the moon, the launch of the 16 Mars Landers and five sub-landers
and the design and maintenance of the International Space Station. However, the
exploration into the great unknown also has welcome benefits for those engineers
a little closer to home.
For example, it has helped to develop new technologies which have improved air
transport, as well as allowing satellites to be used to measure water resources
and help find missing people in
areas unable to be covered easily, such as large forests or mountain ranges.
Dedication to Accuracy
Space missions require expert automation and pinpoint
accuracy, relying upon seamless collaboration between humans and technology, in
which people make decisions based on real-time data. This resonates strongly
with the team at McGreevy Engineering, where we value accuracy above all else, choosing
to continually invest in technology which allows our products to meet global standards,
providing real customer confidence.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to a member of our team about a project, contact us by calling: 028 9044 8755 or email: [email protected].