Aerospace engineering is a highly specialized branch of mechanical engineering that evolved relatively recently in our history, as humankind took to flight, first in the atmosphere then into space. Formally defined, it is the science behind the design and construction of aircraft (aeronautical engineering, and spacecraft (astronautical engineering). These engineers conceptualize, build, and test everything from gliders to missiles, jet fighters, and space rockets. Many also work in naval design, as many of the principles guiding the flow of air around an aircraft (a fluid) readily transfer to the flow of water (also a fluid) around a ship or submarine.

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