Astronautical engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, and operation of spacecraft and related systems. This field combines principles from various disciplines, including aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science, to create vehicles that can travel beyond Earth's atmosphere. Professionals in astronautical engineering work on projects such as satellites, space probes, and human spaceflight missions. They ensure that these systems can withstand the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperatures and radiation, while also meeting safety and performance standards for successful missions.