Exploring Space: Why STEM Is Your Gateway to the Universe

From test pilots to STEM scientists

A tense scene in the movie Apollo 13 depicts the real-life scenario where scientist/engineer Ken Mattingly, played by Gary Sinese, has limited time to come up with the exact equation needed to get the spacecraft turned around and back to the earth’s atmosphere safely. His quick thinking and the engineering know-how that made it happen is a standout in aerospace history, and Mattingly is often referred to as “a hero.”

The first astronauts were chosen not as scientists, but for their flying experience and engineering credentials.  And, they couldn’t be taller than 5’11”. This was back in 1959. From there, the requirements evolved: astronauts were chosen based on academic qualifications,   such as a doctorate or equivalent experience in the natural sciences, medicine, or engineering. Today, the rigorous requirements include:

• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Possess a master’s degree in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics; from an accredited institution.
• Have at least two years of related professional experience obtained after degree completion, or at least 1,000 hours pilot-in-command time on a jet aircraft.
• Be able to pass the NASA long-duration flight astronaut physical.
  

What is STEM?

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM professionals play a critical role in shaping the future in industries that include: 

• Information technology.
• Aerospace.
• Healthcare.
• Civil engineering.
• Biomedical engineering.
• Medical devices.
• Robotics.
• And much more

Over the last 10 years, STEM has been growing at a 20% rate over other career categories. It makes sense, when you consider the rapid advances in technology that are driving every aspect of our lives. Near the top of the list of desired fields is aerospace engineering.

Careers and income potential for STEM graduates with an eye on aeronautics

STEM jobs are plentiful across almost all industries, but let’s take a look at six STEM jobs in the space industry. These include:

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician: These experts work in testing equipment used in aerospace launches. They work on everything from shuttles to satellites, often using simulators to better understand the equipment. The average salary is $66,180.

Launch Engineer, Fluid Systems: Ever know a kid who loved setting off firecrackers? The launch engineer in fluid systems is the grown-up version of that kid. They plan and design propellant and pressure systems, ensuring that the big launch explosion achieves its mission; getting the satellite or shuttle safely launched into space. The average salary is $85,000.

Antenna Engineer: In this highly specialized job, antenna engineers conduct research and development to help build cutting-edge technology for spacecraft. This can include antennas for communicating in space and from space to earth. But this isn’t a regular antenna — it requires tech-driven repairs and must hold up under the stress of a launch and space conditions. The average salary is $95,230.

Health and Safety Training Specialist: Beyond the excitement of designing shuttle and satellite launches is the health and safety of this very special work environment. The job of a health and safety training specialist is to develop and maintain safety guidelines, address infractions, and collect samples of potentially hazardous materials. The average salary is $70,210.

Welder: This job is all about calculating the correct size of parts, the kind of tools required, and the amount of heat that will secure parts so that flight crews can count on maximum safety and efficiency from launch to in-space flight and return to earth. The average salary is $38,150.

Let’s not forget the astronauts!

As noted earlier, admission to NASA includes a Master’s degree in STEM. Since NASA is a government agency, salaries are determined by the U.S. government’s pay scale. They range from $81,000 to just over $146,000. 

What does an astronaut do?

According to Space Crew, responsibilities include:

• Conducting space research and experiments.
• Taking photos and scientific measurements in space.
• Maintaining and repairing equipment in spacecraft and at space stations.
• Unloading shipments, such as food and supplies.
• Conducting space walks.
• Communicating with mission control on Earth — transmitting scientific results.

Is STEM with a focus on space exploration for you?

Are you a high school student who loves to take things apart and put them back together, just to see how they work? Do you dream of one day making a contribution to space exploration? Then college prep classes online might be a great addition to your education; particularly if you are fascinated by all things STEM.

Prelum, Powered by Kaplan, partners with several universities who provide online courses perfect for a future in space exploration. Consider Case Western Reserve’s engineering course for teens. Engineering: From 2D Sketch to 3D Model is designed for motivated high school students with a passion for engineering. You’ll hear from experts in robotics, electrical and mechanical engineers, even video game designers. You’ll gain vital knowledge in 2D sketching, take it through 3D design, and learn the language of design.

Case Western Reserve is also home to college prep science programs that include the popular pre-college online course Astrophysics and Evolutionary Biology: The Origins of Life. Take the ultimate tour of the cosmic zoo: from the Big Bang to the emergence of life on earth, from solar system to ecosystem. 

Another great option for future STEM / aerospace students can be found at Rice University.  

Among their precollege online STEM courses is Space Exploration: The Road to Mars. This course gives you important insights about the growth of private aerospace companies like SpaceX and others. You’ll learn the history of the NASA space program, and the scientific reasons for going to Mars.

If aerospace is your passion, STEM is your launch pad. Start with college prep science programs.