Computers in the workplace

In this post, I will be covering the functions of computers in the aerospace industry.  Or more specifically, space exploration systems development. This post will also explain why it is important for employees in this industry to be computer literate and how the aerospace industry is expected to evolve in the next ten years.

Space exploration system development refers to the process of designing, building, testing, operating, and implementing the technology and systems to explore space.  This sector is responsible for creating propulsion systems, spacecraft, communication networks, space habitats, life support systems and a vast array of other technologies necessary for the purpose of reaching the next frontier.

              The scope of the aerospace industry’s use of computers is incredibly extensive. In fact, the aerospace industry played a critical role in the advancement of computer technology since its conception. Computers are used for a comprehensive spectrum of functions in space exploration systems development including but not limited to:

·       Data acquisition/analysis: Data acquisition is the process of digitizing data so the data can be analyzed, displayed, and stored in a computer. (Measurement Computing)

·       Simulative testing / flight trajectories/launch/landing: The use of powerful computer programs that simulate a wide range of conditional variables like thrust, aerodynamics, gravitational forces, etc. are used to predict of the outcome of launches, landings, and shuttle trajectories.

·       Network communications/ground/satellite: Organizations like Nasa use advanced computer systems to track and communicate with spacecraft via satellite and ground- based communication systems.

·       3D Design/CAD: The aerospace industry uses 2D and 3D modelling software like CAD ( Computer Aided Drafting) and Solid Works to design and test individual components and assemblies. (Valispace)

In the aerospace industry computer literacy is of key importance as computers integrate into nearly every process. Without competent employees who understand and can apply the use of these computer applications effectively, consequences could have a dire impact. In the design, manufacturing, testing, and implementation of new spacecraft or life sustaining systems for instance, a mistake on the behalf of an employee who is not computer literate could lead to loss of millions or even billions of dollars and possibly the loss of life.

Based on historic trends in the use of computing in the aerospace industry, it will only continue to evolve by utilizing the newest, most effective, and efficient systems available. It is likely that with the introduction of A.I, the aerospace industry will begin to heavily incorporate the technology into the design, manufacturing, and testing of new equipment and systems. It will permeate into mission control, flight trajectories, launches, landings, satellite and ground communications. It may even give the aerospace industry the key to an even more technologically sophisticated way of travelling throughout space and time. I believe that with these advancements in hardware, operating systems, and networking, the aerospace industry will be revamped and become one of the most important drivers of a new world economy.