Connection between Physics and a Career in Satellite Technology

ELIT81985 Connection between Physics and a Career in Satellite Technology

Introduction

Generally, satellite engineers through this career are mainly responsible for designing specific programs. These programs play a critical role in orbiting and keeping satellites functioning properly. Different satellite commands are developed with the primary aim of controlling satellites activities remotely, specifically from ground stations. Besides, this software helps in supporting different operations of specific missions, conducting tests for communications systems, monitoring any satellites systems, and most importantly, collecting information that tracks behaviors and trends of satellites.

Educational Requirements Skills and Knowledge Required

In most cases, satellites engineers need a bachelor’s degree in aerospace and mechanical engineering. However, a master’s degree may be of much importance and preferred in various positions and ranks. Besides, having experience in satellite operations or engineering is also an added advantage.  The junior-level associate is the first level for most fresh graduates. However, the rank continues to rise as one gets more experience. Qualified associations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) can offer networking chances through local templates throughout continents (Schmude, 2012).

Generally, people in satellite technology careers need in-depth knowledge and skills related to aerodynamic and, most importantly, physicists. Material science knowledge is also important, particularly in jobs related to production and assembly or rockets and satellites.  Satellite engineers must be more precise and accurate with the understanding of space systems, ground control systems, and satellites operations. In addition, excellent computer skills and capability to state application software is one of the most important skills satellite engineers are required to have. Satellite engineers dealing with defense are also required to have high-security clearance mastery (Tandon, 2013). Besides being necessary to earn a degree, astrophysics and engineering experiences are also critical for this career. However, having a higher degree in computer engineering remains to be a major factor of consideration, particularly for people who want to focus on monitoring, coordinating, and collecting satellite-related data 

Career Outlook and Economic Forecast

Based on their careers, Satellites engineers get wider opportunities in various fields such as aerospace companies, computer and communication technicians, and astronauts specialists. Satellite Education has made it easier for weather forecast specialists to predict the effects and the condition of space and water bodies for astronomers and oceanographers through the advanced technology in computers and technologies used (Whetzel et al. 1996). There are many different and good positions for post-doctoral students in this industry and, in some cases, academic environments. Typically, the satellite technology field tends to be dominated mainly by computer scientists, engineers, and physicists, most of whom are engaged mainly in the development and maintenance of satellites (Tandon, 2013). As a result, there are a lot of opportunities for people who have achieved a degree or have experience in satellite technology, which is also expected to grow over the years. 

The rate of employment for satellite engineers is expected to increase with a three percent growth, specifically throughout 2019 to 2029. Generally, the median annual salary for satellite engineers is about $116,500 based on the United States’ Bureau of labor statistics (BLS). This shows more opportunities and good compensations for these engineers.

Types of Employers 

Satellites engineers are primarily employed by the defense and aerospace companies. Government and private institutions have many applications of satellites which widen job opportunities for satellite engineers. Examples of defense contracts include Lockheed Martin, the United Technologies Corporation, and GA Aviation, Boeing, BAE Systems, and Raytheon. Aerospace companies are Space X, Airbus, Rolls Royce, and Blue origin.

References

Tandon, A. (2013). Careers in Satellite Technology — Journal of Young Investigators. Journal of Young Investigators. Retrieved 25 November 2021, from https://www.jyi.org/2013-march/2017/6/25/careers-in-satellite-technology.

Schmude, R. (2012). Satellite Basics. In Artificial Satellites and How to Observe Them (pp. 1-30). Springer, New York, NY.

Whetzel, D. L., Felker, D. B., & Williams, K. M. (1996). A real world comparison of the effectiveness of satellite training and classroom training. Educational technology research and development, 44(3), 5-18.