Introduction to Aerospace Engineering

Unit code:
Credit Rating: 2
Unit level: Level 1
Teaching period(s): Semester 1
Offered by School of Aeronautical Engineering

Aims
Introduce first year undergraduate students to the breadth of aerospace engineering. This
includes
History of aeronautics and astronautics,
Basics of aircraft and spacecraft flight,
o Flight & orbital mechanics
o Aerodynamics
Introduction to aerospace propulsion systems.

Overview
Introduction to aerospace engineering introduces the student to the foundation level
knowledge of the subject of aerospace engineering. Laying the groundwork for success in
later aerospace specific units. Further, it provides an anchor point for the student to link
scientific and discipline level topics, such as aerodynamics, mathematics, mechanics, etc,
with the specific needs and issues of aerospace engineering. Additionally, the student will
gain an appreciation for the unique aspects of aerospace engineering that set it apart from
related disciplines.

Assessment methods
Assignment
Written exam

Syllabus
Lectures:
1. Introduction & What is Aerospace Engineering
a. What is the unit?
b. Why are we studying aerospace engineering?
c. What do we actually mean by aerospace engineering?
2. A Very Abridged History of Aerospace Engineering
3. From the ground to Infinity & Beyond Flight Environment
a. Introduction to the atmosphere, its layers, properties and challenges
b. Introduction to the deeper space environment, its properties and challanges
4. The Anatomy of an aerospace craft
5. Aerofoils, Wings and Lifting Things
Introduction to wings, aerofoils and coefficients of lift and drag

Recommended reading

John Anderson-Introduction to Flight-McGraw-Hill Science Engineering Math (2011)