Before we begin to learn about aeronautics let's define what it is a bit better. Aeronautics is the science of designing an airplane. There are four basic subjects that aeronautical engineers must understand.

1. How to shape the airplane and it's wing so that it slips easily through the air and can lift itself off the ground. This is called aerodynamics.
2. How to control the airplane so that it will be able to turn but not spin out of control. This is called stability and control.
3. How to build an engine (be it a jet or a propeller) so that airplane can push it's way through the wind. This is called propulsion.
4. How to build the airplane so that it won't fall apart when it hits a gust of wind or slams down on an aircraft carrier. This is called structures.

Aeronautics should not be confused with aerospace engineering which deals with things such as rockets and satellites. While rockets must ascend through the atmosphere they must also navigate through space where where there is no air. Also, rocket engines and thrusters use different methods to generate power than most airplanes do.

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Last modified: Wed May 7 10:11:11 PDT 1997

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