The Overview — Streamline
Fueling the next generation of aerospace engineers
Streamline
A shape or process refined to minimize resistance, enhance efficiency, and manage turbulence—whether in flow, design, or progress
Welcome back to The Overview! As spring brings fresh beginnings, we at the Overview are embracing the power of streamlining—refining past developments to push the boundaries of aerospace. We’ve got an exciting article on CFD and major updates on lunar landings and launch advancements!
🌊 Ever heard of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)? A fascinating yet often daunting field, CFD is a crucial tool in aerospace engineering, shaping everything from aircraft design to rocket simulations. This week, Tagg breaks down the basics of CFD in a fun, easy-to-understand introduction that he promises will be more enjoyable than your fluid dynamics class.
🌘 There’s plenty of aerospace news this week that will have you “over the moon” excited for the future of space exploration! With lunar landings by Firefly and Intuitive Machines and the first full mission of the Ariane 6 launch vehicle, there’s lots to digest from a packed month of aerospace news.
🛫 Featured Technology
Join Tagg as he dives into the world of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)—a field that, at first glance, might just seem like a way to generate cool, colorful flow visuals. But behind those mesmerizing swirls and colorful drawings lies a powerful tool that helps engineers design aircraft, predict rocket performance, and even simulate parachute landings on Mars (which, coincidentally, is what Tagg spends way too much time thinking about).
In this fun and accessible introduction, Tagg breaks down the why, what, and how of CFD—no advanced math degree required. Whether you're an engineer, a student, or just someone who enjoys learning a new aerospace topic, this is your chance to get a glimpse into the world of fluid dynamics, vehicle design, and the magic of simulation.
Check out the full article below — we promise a “turbulent”-free experience with no “shocks” ✈🔥
🚀 Aerospace News
Not one, but TWO private companies landed spacecraft on the moon in recent weeks—marking a significant step in streamlining commercial space exploration.
Firefly’s Blue Ghost lander aced its landing near a crater in the region of the moon called Mare Crisium. It’s already sent back some stunning images and begun its scientific mission. It is one of many missions NASA is sending to the moon as part of its Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative, which aims to “perform science experiments, test technologies, and demonstrate capabilities to help NASA explore the Moon as it prepares for human missions.”
Another private company funded by the CLPS initiative, Intuitive Machines, had a less successful lunar landing with its IM-2 spacecraft, which touched down near the Moon’s south pole on March 6. The lander, possibly dealing with faulty laser altimeter data, landed more than 400 meters from its intended landing site. The company later confirmed through images that the lander was on its side, and they called an early end to the mission the next day. Though the mission was cut short, each attempt refines and streamlines lunar landing techniques, paving the way for future success.
March 6 was a BUSY day for space, as we also saw the Ariane 6 launcher, developed for the European Space Agency (ESA), launch a spy satellite to orbit on its first full mission! The project is funded by Germany, France, Italy, and several other European countries, and the rocket was launched out of Kourou, French Guiana. This marks a HUGE step for Europe in reducing its reliance on foreign (mainly American / SpaceX) launch providers.
💬 Quote of the Week
“Perfection is achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but where there is nothing left to take away.” — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry ✨
Thanks for joining us for The Overview—The Streamline Edition. Every breakthrough in aerospace—whether refining CFD models or perfecting lunar landings—relies on streamlining processes, testing ideas, and learning from each iteration. We hope you find ways to streamline progress in your own pursuits, whether in engineering, exploration, or beyond.
Enjoyed this edition? Share The Overview with a friend or colleague who’s passionate about aerospace! We’d love to hear about your daring first steps—feel free to reach out at admin@theoverview.org with any feedback or requests for future topics!
Stellar vibes,
Tagg, Anshuk, Maggie, Isaac