What are the current and future trends in aerospace research?

AI Thread Summary
Current aerospace research focuses on aerodynamics and fluid mechanics, with significant attention on high Mach number flows and thermal management for vehicles operating at these speeds. There is a blend of innovative research and incremental improvements to existing systems, particularly in propulsion technologies. The commercial aviation sector is prioritizing alternative fuels, such as biofuels, and the development of highly efficient jet engines to reduce fuel costs. Reliability and low maintenance requirements are also critical considerations in ongoing projects. Additionally, the search for a replacement for the US Space Shuttle remains a prominent area of interest in aerospace research.
JD88
Messages
108
Reaction score
0
What would you say are the main focuses of research in aerospace engineering right now, specifically anything to do with aerodynamics or fluid mechanics in general. Is there a lot of research in new areas or is it mainly a lot of small tweaks in order to improve already existing systems? What do you see being the main research areas in the future?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
As far as propulsion goes, high mach number flows is pretty huge right now. Also related are the thermal management of vehicles at very high mach numbers.
 
Commercial aviation is keen on alternative fuels, e.g. biofuels, and highly efficient jet engines in order to hold down fuel costs.

Reliability and low maintenance are key factors as well.


Replacement for the US Space Shuttle is another area of interest.
 

Thread 'Space Stuff and Launch Info'

Due to the constant never ending supply of "cool stuff" happening in Aerospace these days I'm creating this thread to consolidate posts every time something new comes along. Please feel free to add random information if its relevant. So to start things off here is the SpaceX Dragon launch coming up shortly, I'll be following up afterwards to see how it all goes. :smile: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/
View full post »

Similar threads

Other Finding a research topic in the Aerospace field
Replies
11
Views
2K
Aerodynamics & Fluid Mechanics in Aerospace Engineering
Replies
4
Views
3K
Other Advice wanted for self-directed aerospace research as a sophomore
Replies
9
Views
2K
What are the main areas of physics and mathematics for aerospace engineer?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Exploring Opportunities in Aerospace for High School Students
Replies
1
Views
515
Finding Your Path to the Aerospace Engineering Industry
Replies
9
Views
2K
Aerospace Engineering Subfields -- Which ones should I focus on?
Replies
9
Views
4K
What areas of aerospace can I explore with my background in math and physics?
Replies
4
Views
3K
Seeking advice on undergraduate major/minors for Grad School in Mech/Aerospace
Replies
1
Views
3K
Most Fundamental or Important Class for Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
Replies
11
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top