Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering in India is a fascinating and rewarding experience that can open doors to exciting career opportunities. As a country with a rich history in aviation and space exploration, India offers excellent education and research opportunities in the field of aerospace engineering. Aerospace Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that combines elements of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, and computer science to design and build aircraft and spacecraft.

India has some of the best engineering institutions in the world that provide comprehensive programs in aerospace engineering, covering a wide range of topics from aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and spacecraft design. 

The field of Aerospace Engineering is constantly evolving, and graduates are expected to have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Additionally, they must be able to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions to complex problems.

Graduates in this field have opportunities to work in the aviation, defence, and space industries, both within India and globally. With a growing demand for skilled aerospace engineers worldwide, studying aerospace engineering in India can be a smart choice for those looking to enter this exciting field.

Eligibility of Aerospace Engineering

To be eligible for aerospace engineering in India, a student must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as core subjects. Some aerospace engineering colleges may also require a minimum percentage in 12th grade or an entrance exam score.

Career in Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineers have promising careers in India and abroad, with various opportunities in the aviation, defence, and space industries. Aerospace engineers can work with companies such as:

• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
• Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
• Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

They can also work in private aerospace companies such as: 

• Tata Advanced Systems
• Mahindra Aerospace
• Bharat Forge
• Boeing
• Airbus
• SpaceX

They can work in areas such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, avionics, satellite and spacecraft design, and launch vehicles. The career prospects for aerospace engineers are expected to grow as the industry continues to expand, making it a lucrative and exciting career option.

Scope of Aerospace Engineering

The scope of aerospace engineering is vast and continually expanding. Aerospace engineers play a crucial role in designing, developing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, control systems, and instrumentation. The demand for aerospace engineers is growing, particularly with the increasing global demand for air travel and space exploration. 

In addition, the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones has opened up new opportunities for aerospace engineers in areas such as remote sensing, agriculture, and logistics. With advancements in technology and a growing need for sustainability, the scope of aerospace engineering is set to expand further, making it a promising field for students to pursue.

Course Curriculum

The aerospace engineering course curriculum covers a wide range of topics related to the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. The course begins with a foundation in subjects like:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Engineering Mechanics
• Aerodynamics
• Propulsion
• Flight dynamics
• Control systems
• Materials science
• Manufacturing processes
• Avionics
• Space systems design 

The curriculum also includes laboratory sessions, design projects, and internships to provide students with hands-on experience. Additionally, some universities and institutions like Sha-Shib Group with much industry presence offer specialized courses in areas such as UAVs, drones, and space exploration. The aerospace engineering course curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, preparing them for careers in aviation, defence, and space exploration.

Recruiters

Aerospace engineers are recruited by a wide range of companies, both in India and abroad. The primary recruiters of aerospace engineers are aerospace and defence companies, such as Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and General Electric along with other governmental organisations. Other companies that hire aerospace engineers include airlines, aircraft manufacturers, space research organizations, and government agencies. 

The job roles for aerospace engineers include design engineers, research and development engineers, production engineers, quality assurance engineers, and project managers. With the ever-growing demand for skilled aerospace engineers, the scope for recruitment in this field is significant.

Job Profile

The job profile of aerospace engineers involves designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related systems. They are responsible for creating designs that are efficient, reliable, and safe. Aerospace engineers work on various aspects of a project, such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, avionics, and flight dynamics.

The job profile of aerospace engineers is similar to that of aeronautical engineers, but with a broader scope that includes spacecraft and other aerospace systems. Some of the key responsibilities of aerospace engineers include: 

• ​​​​​Design and development of spacecraft and aerospace systems: Aerospace engineers design and develop spacecraft, satellites, and other aerospace systems, taking into account factors such as weight, stability, and safety.
• Systems integration: Aerospace engineers integrate various subsystems and components of spacecraft and aerospace systems, such as propulsion, communications, and guidance systems.
• Control systems: Aerospace engineers design and develop control systems for spacecraft and aerospace systems, including guidance, navigation, and attitude control systems.
• Materials research and development: Aerospace engineers research and develop new materials that can withstand the extreme conditions of space and improve the performance and durability of aerospace systems.
• Testing and evaluation: Aerospace engineers conduct tests to evaluate the performance and safety of spacecraft and aerospace systems. This may involve ground testing, as well as flight testing and simulation.
• Launch and mission operations: Aerospace engineers may be involved in the launch and mission operations of spacecraft, including monitoring systems and troubleshooting any problems that arise.

Aerospace engineers play a critical role in the design, development, and operation of spacecraft and other aerospace systems. They work on cutting-edge technology to push the boundaries of space exploration and scientific discovery.

Payscale

The pay scale of aerospace engineers varies depending on the job role, experience, and location. Entry-level aerospace engineers can earn between 3-6 lakhs per annum in India, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of 15 lakhs per annum. In robust industries like the United States, aerospace engineers can earn an average salary of $116,500 per annum, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission Procedure

The admission process for a BTech in Aerospace Engineering is similar to that of other engineering programs. Most institutions require applicants to have completed their high school education with a strong academic background in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Along with academic qualifications, admission committees may also consider extracurricular activities, work experience, and letters of recommendation when evaluating applicants. 

Some universities may also conduct personal interviews to assess the candidate's interest and aptitude for Aerospace Engineering. The admission process for a BTech in Aerospace Engineering is highly competitive, and applicants must have a strong foundation in science and mathematics along with a keen interest in the field.