​​12 Aerospace Engineering Projects for High School Students

Aerospace encompasses more than just aircrafts and rockets; it involves understanding movement in air and space while connecting science, mathematics, and creativity to real-world applications. For students interested in hands-on experiences in physics, coding, or design, aerospace projects offer a unique opportunity to explore this intriguing field from an early age. 

These programs impart vital engineering principles, sparking interest and enhancing prospects for admission to higher education. Whether focusing on spacecraft, drones, or simulations, there’s a suitable project for everyone.

Here are 12 aerospace engineering projects for high school students. These projects require fundamental yet essential knowledge and are quite affordable.

1) Flight Path Optimization Project

Modern aviation is all about competence and optimization. In this project, students use real-world flight data, such as from the OpenSky Network, to analyze and evaluate airline routes based on distance, altitude profiles, speed, and fuel usage. 

By examining actual flight paths, students gain a data science-driven overview of how airlines optimize routes for cost, time, and environmental impact. The project challenges students to compare different airline operations and suggest improvements that could lead to more fuel-efficient or time-saving flight strategies.

Subject / Field: Aerospace Analytics, Data Science

Experience Level: Intermediate

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Basic data analysis skills (Excel or Python), understanding of flight parameters

Resources: https://opensky-network.org/

Drawbacks: Complex datasets may require time to interpret

Student Fit: Students interested in aviation strategy, sustainability, or transportation systems

2) Design a CubeSat Mission

CubeSats are compact, cost-effective satellites widely used by researchers and universities for space missions. In this project, students design a CubeSat mission concept following 1U or 2U guidelines, simulating the real-world constraints and decisions faced by aerospace engineers. 

They will define goals like Earth observation or data collection, then design subsystems such as power, payload, and communications. Through modeling, simulation, or diagramming, students will create a detailed representation of their CubeSat, balancing technical trade-offs within limited volume and resources.

Subject / Field: Systems Engineering, Spacecraft Design

Experience Level: Advanced

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Research, systems thinking, optional CAD or electronics

Resources:https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/nasa_csli_cubesat_101_508.pdf?emrc=05d3e2

Drawbacks: Mostly theoretical unless paired with access to parts or mentors

Student Fit: Space enthusiasts and students interested in designing full engineering systems for real-world applications.                                                                                                    

3) Analyze Mars Rover Missions

Mars rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance are advanced robotic explorers designed to operate in the harsh environment of the Red Planet. In this project, students select a specific Mars rover mission and analyze its components, including scientific instruments and mobility systems. 

By studying terrain data and mission objectives, such as searching for signs of water or past life, students gain insight into how these rovers support planetary exploration. Deliverables may include comparing mission outcomes, detailed diagrams, or presentations explaining how each system contributes to scientific goals.

Subject / Field: Robotics, Planetary Science

Experience Level: Beginner

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Research and presentation skills

Resources: https://science.nasa.gov/resource/diagram-of-curiosity-rover-instruments/

Drawbacks: Primarily research-based; limited hands-on component

Student Fit: Students interested in planetary science, space missions, and science communication.

4) Build a Solar-Powered Aircraft Model

This project challenges students to explore the potential of renewable energy in aviation by constructing a lightweight model aircraft powered solely by solar energy. Using materials like foam or balsa wood, students will design and build a small plane equipped with miniature solar panels and a propeller motor. Through hands-on testing in direct sunlight, they will experiment with design variables to improve lift, power-to-weight ratio, and energy efficiency, gaining insight into sustainable aerospace engineering and the principles of flight.

Subject / Field: Renewable Energy, Aerospace Engineering

Experience Level: Intermediate

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Basic understanding of circuits and mechanical assembly

Drawbacks: Requires sunny weather and careful construction; limited flight time

Student Fit: Students curious about green energy, sustainable flight, and aerospace innovation

5) Create a CanSat Balloon Satellite

CanSats are miniature satellite models designed to simulate real space missions on a student-friendly scale. In this project, students build their own CanSat equipped with sensors such as temperature and altitude trackers, then launch it using a weather balloon. 

The challenge involves designing onboard systems for data collection, transmission, and payload recovery. By analyzing the collected data post-flight, students gain hands-on experience with space systems engineering, mission planning, and real-time environmental sensing.

Subject / Field: Systems Engineering, Atmospheric Science

Experience Level: Advanced

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Electronics, coding, mechanical design

Resources: Cansat Europe Resources (https://www.esa.int/Education/CanSat)

Drawbacks: Requires access to components and a safe launch area

Student Fit: Students ready for a full-scale aerospace challenge

6) Model Rocket with Altimeter

This project enhances the rocketry experience by integrating real-time flight data collection and simulating professional aerospace practices. Students will assemble a model rocket using a commercial kit (such as Estes) and equip it with a compact digital altimeter mounted in the nose cone. After launching in a safe outdoor environment, they will collect and analyze altitude data to study key concepts like propulsion, acceleration, peak altitude, and recovery systems. Students are encouraged to experiment with design variations to understand how changes impact performance and maximize flight outcomes.

Subject / Field: Propulsion, Data Analysis, Flight Mechanics

Experience Level: Intermediate

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Understanding of Newton’s Laws, basic data interpretation.

Drawbacks: Requires adult supervision, open space, and weather-dependent launch conditions

Student Fit: Students keen on rocket science, data-driven projects, and real-time performance testing.

7) Space Settlement Design Competition

Inspired by competitions like NASA’s and the NSS Space Settlement Contest, students design livable habitats for humans beyond Earth. This interdisciplinary endeavor blends science, architecture, sustainability, and economics. 

Working individually or in teams, students develop detailed concepts that address critical aspects such as artificial gravity, radiation shielding, life support systems, food and water supply, and social infrastructure. Final submissions typically include technical designs, written reports, and visual illustrations that showcase a fully functioning space settlement.

Subject / Field: Space Architecture, Systems Design

Experience Level: Advanced

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Strong research, teamwork, systems thinking, and interest in long-term space habitation

Resources: https://nss.org/nss-space-settlement-contest/

Drawbacks: Time-intensive and competitive; requires multidisciplinary thinking

Student Fit: Students interested in long-term space habitation or futuristic design

8) Build a Simple Hydraulic Arm

This beginner-friendly project introduces students to fluid mechanics and mechanical motion through hands-on engineering. By constructing a simple hydraulic-powered arm using cardboard, syringes, tubing, and water, students explore how hydraulic systems control movement, similar to mechanisms in aircraft landing gear or robotic arms. Manipulating the syringes transfers force through the fluid, activating joints and demonstrating principles like pressure, force transfer, and mechanical leverage. This project provides a seamless introduction to motion control in aerospace and robotics.

Subject / Field: Fluid Mechanics, Mechanical Design

Experience Level: Beginner

Prior Knowledge / Skills: None required; basic interest in mechanics will be a plus

Drawbacks: Can be messy; tubing leaks may occur if not sealed properly

Student Fit: Beginners curious about robotics, automation, or aerospace mechanisms.

9) Drone Programming and Flight Automation

Drones are revolutionizing various sectors, including military surveillance and package delivery, and this project provides a practical introduction to their functionality. Students can explore the fundamentals of drone flight, avionics, and control systems using programmable drones like the DJI Tello EDU. 

Through block coding or Python, they’ll write basic programs to perform flight maneuvers, obstacle avoidance, or autonomous landings. This engaging project blends technical skills with real-world applications, offering a thrilling entry point into aerospace engineering and robotics.

Subject / Field: Avionics, Robotics, Programming

Experience Level: Intermediate

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Some basic programming and safe drone operation awareness

Resources: https://droneblocks.io/

Drawbacks: Requires buying a programmable drone and open flight space.

Student Fit: Students interested in robotics, autonomous systems, and aerospace navigation.

10) Simulate Orbital Trajectories with Python

This project introduces students to the fundamentals of orbital dynamics through Python programming, mirroring the work of real space mission analysts. Using scientific libraries like Poliastro or Skyfield, students will simulate satellite orbits around Earth or other celestial bodies in 2D or 3D environments. 

By adjusting variables such as speed, mass, and altitude, they’ll explore key concepts like gravitational forces, velocity vectors, orbital shapes, and decay. This hands-on coding project deepens understanding of spaceflight mechanics and computational modeling in modern aerospace engineering.

Subject / Field: Astrodynamics, Programming

Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Python programming, physics (gravity, centripetal force)

Drawbacks: Requires access to a computer and moderate coding ability

Student Fit: Coders passionate about orbital mechanics, space tech, and astrophysics.

11) Create a Wind Tunnel for Aerodynamic Testing

Wind tunnels are essential tools for aerospace engineers to test airflow and measure aerodynamic parameters. In this project, students will construct a small wind tunnel using a fan, clear tubing, and smoke (or string) to visualize airflow. They’ll test paper or foam models, such as different wing shapes or car designs, to observe and analyze how air behaves around them. This hands-on experiment provides valuable insights into concepts like drag, lift, and fluid dynamics, simulating the real-world testing process used by engineers to refine aircraft and vehicle designs.

Subject / Field: Aerodynamics, Experimental Engineering

Experience Level: Intermediate

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Basic physics and crafting/building

Resources: https://www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/WindTunnel/build.html

Drawbacks: Need space, setup time, and consistent airflow

Student Fit: Students who enjoy experimental testing, physics, and applied engineering

12) Design a Parachute for Payload Recovery

Parachutes are crucial in space missions, from soft landings on Mars to safely returning astronauts to Earth. In this project, students will design and test parachutes to safely drop a fragile payload, such as an egg, from a height. By experimenting with different materials (paper, plastic, or fabric) and adjusting the canopy size, students will learn about key concepts like drag, surface area, and descent speed. The goal is to optimize the parachute design to ensure a smooth and controlled descent, protecting the payload while demonstrating principles of aerodynamics and engineering.

Subject / Field: Fluid Dynamics, Material Science

Experience Level: Beginner

Prior Knowledge / Skills: Basic understanding of gravity and drag

Resources: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/edu/teach/activity/make-a-parachute/

Drawbacks: Outdoor testing required; wind can affect results

Student Fit: Applied learners interested in reentry vehicles or aerospace safety

If you’re looking to build a project/research paper in the field of AI & ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

With Veritas AI, which was founded by Harvard graduate students, you can work 1-on-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn AI & ML with us. You can apply here!

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