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Research and Innovation

Where Aerospace Research Takes Flight

At Cal Poly Aerospace Engineering, research connects curiosity with hands-on discovery. Students and faculty explore challenges in aeronautics and astronautics through aircraft and spacecraft design, advanced testing, simulation and research projects that turn engineering theory into practical experience.

Explore Our Research Facilities

Aerospace Engineering laboratories provide spaces to investigate flight, propulsion, structures and space systems. From wind tunnels to spacecraft testing and simulation facilities, students apply engineering principles through experimentation and analysis.

Explore Our Labs

CubeSat team member in the thermal vacuum chamber room with a CubeSat

Advance Your Research Through Graduate Study

Take your aerospace engineering interests further through advanced coursework and a research-focused master's program. Working with faculty, graduate students pursue a substantial thesis project that develops specialized technical knowledge and research skills.

Explore Graduate Program

students in protective gear work carefully on cubesat with lab instruments

Discover Student Research Opportunities

Put classroom knowledge to work through research alongside faculty. Explore opportunities to investigate engineering questions, develop technical skills and contribute to projects through programs such as the College of Engineering's Summer Undergraduate Research Program.

Explore Student Research

Scholarships That Support Your Future

Explore scholarship opportunities that help make aerospace engineering education more accessible. Find resources for Cal Poly, engineering-specific and external scholarships.

Find Scholarships

Celebrating Aerospace Pioneers

Discover the engineers, aviators and astronauts whose achievements shaped aerospace history. Explore their contributions and the breakthroughs that continue to inspire future generations.

Explore Aerospace Pioneers