On the horizon

Abstract

The chapter ‘On the horizon’ looks at a few of the technological and societal trends influencing the future of aerospace engineering. The chapter begins by examining how advances in additive manufacturing, computational modelling, and artificial intelligence are transforming the way aerospace engineers design next-generation flight systems. The focus then shifts to aeronautical systems, with special attention given to drones, arguably the most disruptive type of aeronautical system to have been developed in recent years. High-speed aircraft and the infrastructure needed to support next-generation flight systems are also discussed. In terms of astronautics, the emergence of private space companies and CubeSats are examined, as is the debate over human versus robotic space exploration. Other factors influencing aerospace innovation are then discussed, namely, safety and government regulations. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of the countless individuals whose contributions have made and continue to make aerospace innovation possible.