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The Skilling Laboratory support the Aeronautics and Astronautics program, supplying space & opportunity to embed practical learning into courses. We provide:

  • Flexible teaching space for project-based Aeronautics and Astronautics undergraduate & graduate courses
  • Hand tools, additive manufacturing, thermal machining, and prototyping equipment & supplies
  • Opportunity and belonging for Aeronautics and Astronautics community to ideate, create & make, to develop technical, creative, and practical engineering skills

     

Class Spotlight: AA100: Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics

Four students around a table, working on balsa wood planes in the Skilling Laboratory in 2022

The AA100: Introduction to Aeronautics and Astronautics class is key connection point for students to gain experience and insight into the Aeronautics and Astronautics major. The class introduces students to the basics of aeronautics and astronautics through: 

  • Applied physics
  • Hands-on activities
  • Real world examples. 

The principles of fluid flow, flight, and propulsion for aircraft are illustrated, including the creation of lift and drag, aerodynamic performance including takeoff, climb, range, and landing. The principles of orbits, maneuvers, space environment, and propulsion for spacecraft are also illustrated, and students are connected to the history and challenges of aeronautics and astronautics.

To find out more about the recent collaboration between Prof. Ken Hara and Dr. Sonia Travaglini for the AA100 class, and hear about how students applied their knowledge, check out the Stanford Engineering Magazine - Students learn the basics of flight through hands-on activities , or hear more from AA100 students on the Stanford YouTube video.