Expert: Paul Soderman - 8/26/2007

Question
hello sir!

I am a student of final year of Undergrad studies  in aerospace engineering.
i wanted to have some advice and guidance regarding my final year project.

i have an intrest in missiles and rockets.
primarily  with respect to structures and also CFD analysis.

i ought to seek your guidance about what  limits should i  work on to get a good work and output in my project..

presently i have a thinking that i would  be working on  design on  a rocket and  ist analysis ..and also then manufacture a prototype of it!

but i am much confused about whether to chooose  rocket or a missile to move forward into the matter.

also i would like to seek your advice  about  what important aspects i should work on  in this sort of project because  a complete rocket designing and  testing in all aspects is not a  project  for a single  person..what you say sir,

seeking your replyy soon


i would be happyy to recieve email from you!
Regards
irfan

Answer
Irfan
You are right - depending on your resources, designing, building and testing a rocket is a big project for one person unless it is a very simple device.  A missle is even harder because it requires guidance and control.  A paper study showing all the elements of design, propulsion, performance makes much more sense for a final year project.  Perhaps your professor can help with that decision.
Paul