Combining Astrophysics and Engineering?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the intersection of Astrophysics and Engineering, particularly focusing on the potential for combining these fields. Participants highlight programs such as Engineering Physics at the University of Michigan and a combined Physics, Engineering, and Applied Math program at Wisconsin-Madison as viable paths. It is noted that Chemical Engineering does not directly incorporate Astrophysics, although Astrophysics can utilize chemistry in planetary studies. Aerospace Engineering is mentioned as a field that applies mechanics and orbital dynamics relevant to space exploration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles
  • Familiarity with engineering disciplines, particularly Chemical and Aerospace Engineering
  • Knowledge of applied mathematics
  • Awareness of astrophysical concepts and their applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Engineering Physics programs at the University of Michigan
  • Explore the combined Physics, Engineering, and Applied Math program at Wisconsin-Madison
  • Investigate the role of chemistry in Astrophysics, particularly in planetary atmospheres
  • Learn about Aerospace Engineering principles, focusing on orbital dynamics and propulsion systems
USEFUL FOR

High school students interested in pursuing careers that blend Astrophysics and Engineering, educators guiding students in STEM fields, and anyone exploring interdisciplinary studies in physics and engineering.

turnip22
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Hi, I'm currently a freshman in high school and still considering what to do in the future, but right now my two top choices are Astrophysics and Engineering. I love physics at school so, SO much and doing something in that area would be great, but right now I'm torn between these two areas of physics. Is there a way to combine both of them together? Also, I'm not talking about Aerospace engineering...I'm thinking more along the lines of Chemical Engineering, but more to do with physics and astronomy instead. I'm not sure this makes sense but any help is totally welcome :)
 
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turnip22 said:
Hi, I'm currently a freshman in high school and still considering what to do in the future, but right now my two top choices are Astrophysics and Engineering. I love physics at school so, SO much and doing something in that area would be great, but right now I'm torn between these two areas of physics. Is there a way to combine both of them together? Also, I'm not talking about Aerospace engineering...I'm thinking more along the lines of Chemical Engineering, but more to do with physics and astronomy instead. I'm not sure this makes sense but any help is totally welcome :)

There's lots of programs out there that combine physics and engineering, they're typicalled engineering physics, applied physics, or engineering science, University of Michigan is an example:

http://www.engin.umich.edu/college/academics/bulletin/depts/engin-phys

Wisconsin-Madison has a program combining Physics, Engineering, and Applied Math:

http://www.math.wisc.edu/amep

Chemical engineering doesn't use astrophysics at all, though astrophysics might use topics from chemistry to look at planetary atmospheres and whatnot. Aerospace engineering uses orbital dynamics to trace out spacecraft trajectories though and uses lots mechanics to look at fluids and materials for propulsion and electromagnetism if they're doing communication or advanced propulsion systems. Both are really big fields, best of luck with researching them.
 

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