Poly/ and NASA: A Partnership Pioneering Space Exploration
Dublin Core
Title
Poly/ and NASA: A Partnership Pioneering Space Exploration
Description
NYU Tandon School of Engineering, formerly known as Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, has maintained a significant relationship with NASA, driving advancements in space exploration through this longstanding collaboration. Starting from the early 20th century, Tandon (then Polytechnic) established one of the first aeronautics programs in the U.S., quickly gaining recognition for its innovative curriculum and distinguished faculty.
Significant to this relationship was the involvement of Tandon faculty and alumni in key NASA projects. For example, Thomas Joseph Kelly, a Tandon engineer and faculty member, led the design and testing of NASA’s first lunar module, which successfully transported astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to and from the moon's surface during the Apollo 11 mission. This pivotal achievement earned him the nickname “the father of the lunar module,” highlighting Tandon’s critical role in one of humanity’s most historic endeavors.
The partnership extended beyond individual contributions. Tandon’s aerospace department frequently collaborated with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), NASA's predecessor, integrating cutting-edge aerospace research and education. This collaboration continued to flourish under NASA’s auspices, supporting Tandon’s facilities and research initiatives. For instance, a grant from NASA enabled the expansion of Tandon’s aerospace laboratory, further cementing the institute’s role as a hub for aerospace innovation and education.
Today, Tandon’s engagement with NASA involves a variety of projects, from developing new aerospace materials to exploring innovative fuel technologies for future Mars missions. These ongoing projects underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of the Tandon-NASA partnership, which continues to contribute to major advancements in aerospace technology and space exploration.
Significant to this relationship was the involvement of Tandon faculty and alumni in key NASA projects. For example, Thomas Joseph Kelly, a Tandon engineer and faculty member, led the design and testing of NASA’s first lunar module, which successfully transported astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to and from the moon's surface during the Apollo 11 mission. This pivotal achievement earned him the nickname “the father of the lunar module,” highlighting Tandon’s critical role in one of humanity’s most historic endeavors.
The partnership extended beyond individual contributions. Tandon’s aerospace department frequently collaborated with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), NASA's predecessor, integrating cutting-edge aerospace research and education. This collaboration continued to flourish under NASA’s auspices, supporting Tandon’s facilities and research initiatives. For instance, a grant from NASA enabled the expansion of Tandon’s aerospace laboratory, further cementing the institute’s role as a hub for aerospace innovation and education.
Today, Tandon’s engagement with NASA involves a variety of projects, from developing new aerospace materials to exploring innovative fuel technologies for future Mars missions. These ongoing projects underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of the Tandon-NASA partnership, which continues to contribute to major advancements in aerospace technology and space exploration.
Creator
NYU Tandon
Publisher
NYU Tandon
Date
N/A
Contributor
N/A
Website Item Type Metadata
Local URL
https://engineering.nyu.edu/170-years-of-engineering/nyu-tandon-goes-space
Files
Citation
NYU Tandon, “Poly/ and NASA: A Partnership Pioneering Space Exploration,” Poly Archives, accessed January 31, 2025, https://polyarchives.hosting.nyu.edu/items/show/695.