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UMASS AERONAUTICS

Design. Build. Fly.

Who We Are

The UMass Aeronautics Team is an undergraduate student competition team of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Riccio College of Engineering. We are a team of 25-30 students applying classroom knowledge to real-world problems in the aviation, UAV, and VTOL industries.


The Workflow

01. DESIGN

The team uses the engineering design process to design, analyze, and optimize the aircraft for each mission using programs and software like SOLIDWORKS, MATLAB, and ANSYS. We provide a unique opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of these tools at an advanced level.

02. BUILD

We utilize rapid prototyping techniques such as 3D-printing, laser cutting, and hot-wire cutting. Prototypes are constructed using lightweight, high-strength materials ranging from wood and composites to cutting-edge 3D printing materials. We test and redesign multiple times to ensure optimal performance.

03. FLY

Following rigorous testing, we travel to locations like Tucson, Arizona or Wichita, Kansas to participate in the AIAA DBF Competition. The competition involves performing a series of ground and flight missions, scored against universities worldwide.

Past Events

Student Org Fair

Check us out on Sept 9th at the Riccio College of Engineering Student Organizations & Resource Fair in the Engineering Quad.

Pancake Breakfast Fly-In

Join Us at the Northampton Airport (7B2) on May 10th. Breakfast food, live music, intro-flight raffles, and lots of stories!

GET IN TOUCH

umassuavteam@gmail.com | Social: @umassaeronautics