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]