X-59 Operations Engineering Experience
Noah
Experience Information
Employer: NASA, Armstrong Flight Research Center
Job Title: Pathways Engineer
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is responsible for leading the United States in aerospace research. Consisting of about 17,000 employees and a considerable amount of contractors, the agency is spread all across the nation in the form of centers. These centers generally each have a specialty or specific purpose. The Armstrong Flight Research Center focuses on experimental aircraft.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Performed a complete inventory on a T-38 canopy and crew escape system so it can be recycled for the X-59, performed a complete analysis of the oxygen flow for the life support system in multiple scenarios, and assisted with test set up for a full performance test of the life support system.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Gained an understanding of the rather complex canopy systems of jet aircraft, as well as an understanding of compressible fluid flow mechanics.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Being a part of an important project while having valuable work to perform. Having a great team to work with made everything enjoyable as well.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
It opened my eyes to the workings of the Ops Engineering department and what they do beyond just setting up flight tests. This knowledge broadened my horizons to another field I could pursue.