Aerospace Engineers typically specialize in what two types of engineering?

Aerospace engineers focus on the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft, which involves expertise in two primary areas: aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering.

Aeronautical engineering pertains to the technology and design of flying vehicles that operate within Earth's atmosphere, such as airplanes and helicopters. This specialization covers aspects like aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural analysis of aircraft.

On the other hand, astronautical engineering deals with spacecraft that operate beyond Earth's atmosphere, including satellites, space probes, and crewed missions. This specialty involves knowledge of space environments, propulsion systems for space travel, and the unique challenges of operating in a vacuum.

The combination of these fields ensures aerospace engineers are well-equipped to handle the complexities associated with both atmospheric and space travel. This emphasis on aeronautical and astronautical engineering is what distinctly characterizes the role of aerospace engineers.