AES 2050 - Aviation History and Aerospace Development

3(3 + 0)

This course examines how the people and defining events of the past influence aviation and aerospace career opportunities. From the early myths and legends through present and anticipated aerospace developments, the effects that advances in propulsion systems, structural materials, navigation techniques, high altitude flights, and weather considerations have had upon the progress of manned flight in and beyond the atmosphere are considered. We vicariously relive some of the extraordinary experiences of early aviators, both in peace and in war. The course includes examination of aviation artifacts of the World Wars I and II eras. There are field exercises to the Air and Space Museum, launch vehicle facilities, and other aviation activities.