My long-term goal is to work in the space industry, ideally in space systems engineering or flight software. However, after taking a gap year and not being able to pursue aerospace or mechanical engineering, I'm now studying computer science for my undergraduate degree. I'd like to use the degree as a pathway into aerospace rather than focusing only on general web development. I'm considering starting with C++ and then learning other systems-level tools, but I'm also wondering whether Python or Rust would be a better starting point. Is this plan realistic, and how should I structure my learning so I build useful skills instead of jumping randomly between languages? I'm especially interested in building physical systems and want to know how I can connect a CS degree to space-related work.
4 Answers
C is a great foundation for low-level programming, and your university course will give you a good starting point. After that, C++ is still a sensible choice for aerospace, embedded systems, and flight software. It definitely isn’t obsolete. Focus on understanding memory, data structures, debugging, and reliable software rather than just collecting languages.
C++ is a reasonable route, and Rust is worth exploring later because some modern systems projects are adopting it for memory safety. Still, language choice matters less than programming fundamentals, software design, testing, and being able to build reliable deterministic programs. Also research the requirements of actual aerospace roles you might want, since different employers use different tools. A CS degree can lead into the field through embedded software, simulation, robotics, avionics, data systems, and guidance or control software.
I chose CS after being unable to continue with my original aerospace plans because of timing, admissions, and financial constraints. I’ll focus on making the CS route useful through projects and relevant electives rather than assuming the degree prevents me from entering the industry.
Python is also worth learning, but probably as a supporting language rather than your only focus. It’s excellent for simulations, data analysis, automation, and quickly testing ideas. You can add it later without changing your main path, while C or C++ will give you a stronger understanding of how systems work underneath.
Don’t try to learn every language at once. Pick one and build real projects. An Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar hardware can teach you about sensors, electronics, control loops, and communication protocols—skills that transfer well to spacecraft and other embedded systems. Try projects such as a sensor logger, a small attitude-control simulation, or an orbital mechanics program.
I already have an Arduino and Raspberry Pi at home, so I’ll start using them more deliberately instead of only following isolated tutorials.
That makes sense. Since my first semester includes C, I’ll use that to build the fundamentals and study C++ alongside it at a manageable pace.