student adjusts a plane that he is testing in the Aerospace Wind Tunnels

Research

we push the boundaries of aerospace engineering

The Department of Aerospace Engineering has world-renowned research centers, a rich and dynamic undergraduate and graduate curricula spanning fundamental and contemporary aerospace topics, and an esteemed faculty at the forefront of the field.

Research at Michigan impacts every area of flight, focusing on aerodynamics and propulsion; autonomous systems and control; structures and materials; space systems, and computation. Our approach to research is often multidisciplinary, and research groups work with colleagues from across Michigan Engineering, such as Robotics, CLaSP and EECS.

student holding Octodrone

Hall thrusters are an efficient type of electric propulsion system often used in orbiting spacecraft. It was previously thought that Hall thrusters required greater mass to generate greater thrust. Now, a team led by Benjamin Jorns suggests that smaller Hall thrusters can still be used to generate greater thrust.

Research Areas


Aerospace engineering at U-M tackles the fundamental areas that drive advances in aircraft and spacecraft.

Shared Facilities


Students and faculty use research environments to meet any project need for design, development and implementation.

Multidisciplinary Centers


Engaging the range of expertise at Michigan Engineering allows researchers to better answer complex problems.

Research Opportunities for Students


There are multiple ways to get involved in research, and students can pursue whatever combination fits them best. 

students checking on X3 thruster

MICHIGAN AEROSPACE NEWS

PURSUE YOUR AEROSPACE INTERESTS

We provide a vibrant environment of intellectual challenge and excitement that is at the same time collegial and conducive to higher learning.

X-HALE aircraft