Department of Aerospace Engineering

Welcome to the Department of Aerospace Engineering, CTU FME

We are a department that combines top-tier engineering theory with hands-on practice in the aerospace industry. Our students and researchers actively participate in the development of aircraft, the testing of unmanned aerial systems, and the design of hardware for space missions. Here, knowledge doesn’t just stay in classrooms—it earns real-world certifications and heads into orbit.

What you will work on: From applied research to certification

Aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAVs)

Our laboratories and testing facilities contribute to the development and certification of cutting-edge aerospace technology. Our current and recent projects include:

• UAV Certification: We conducted ground vibration tests and participated in the NATO-standard certification of the Primoco UAV, making it a global unique in its class. A detailed look at the testing process can be found here.

• New Aircraft Development: We design and test aircraft from the initial aerodynamic concept to a fully functional prototype. The results of our applied research include the all-metal STOL Cruiser, designed for short take-off and landing operations, and the unique all-composite ducted-fan aircraft, the UL-39 Albi.

Space Technology and Engineering

The Czech space industry is experiencing rapid growth, and we are at the forefront of it. We have dedicated a separate portal, spacetech.fs.cvut.cz, to our Space Technology specialization, where you can find detailed information about the program. What exactly is happening in our labs?

• Hardware for the International Space Station (ISS): We are developing the METRO experiment, which researches life support technologies and was selected for a mission to the ISS as part of the Czech astronaut's flight. We are also participating in the preparation of the Czech lunar mission, Lvice2.

• Student Success and Real-World Application: The results of our student theses do not just serve to earn a degree; they open doors to high-level research. A prime example is the journey of one of our students—her bachelor's thesis found direct application in the Hydronaut underwater simulator, and thanks to her excellent results, she subsequently joined international space programs.

Student Teams: Hands-on experience from day one

You can apply your knowledge of aerodynamics, mechanics, and design long before your final exams. The department provides facilities and support for two highly active student teams:

• CTU AeroLab: A team focused on the design, construction, and piloting of radio-controlled models, regularly participating in international engineering competitions.

• CTU Space Research: A rocketry team that develops, builds, and successfully launches its own experimental rockets.

What you can study with us

We provide education at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Our core program is the follow-up Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, which is divided into three specializations:

1. Aircraft and Unmanned Systems: Theoretical and experimental methods for designing aircraft and airframes, and ensuring their operation.

2. Aircraft Engines: The design of aircraft and spacecraft engines.

3. Space Technology: The design of satellites, and the preparation and execution of space missions.

Where will you find employment? From Škoda to ESA

Our graduates are highly sought after. They move on to technical and technical-managerial positions with the best companies in the field:

• Aircraft Development and Manufacturing: AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, Aircraft Industries, LA Composite, Latecoere.

• Aviation Systems and Engines: GE Aviation, Honeywell, PBS Velká Bíteš, LOM PRAHA.

• Space Research and Technology: European Space Agency (ESA), S.A.B. Aerospace, Thales Alenia Space, Spacemanic, Stratosyst.

• Research and Advanced Transport Technology: VZLÚ, Škoda Auto, Doosan Bobcat.

Our History

The Department of Aerospace Engineering was founded in 1974, building upon a more than century-old tradition of teaching aviation-related subjects at the Czech Technical University (CTU) in Prague.