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Goddard Engineering and Technology Directorate

Materials Engineering

Materials engineer testing a composite coupon to determine the compressive strength and modulus of the polymer matrix composite material
Materials engineer testing a composite coupon to determine the compressive strength and modulus of the polymer matrix composite material

Comprehensive Testing and Analysis for Spaceflight Success

Materials Engineering at Goddard provides critical, on-demand, and highly specialized testing, analysis, and specific expertise across numerous spaceflight materials and processes disciplines, expanding engineering boundaries through innovative solutions. With expertise in metallurgy, composites, tribology, non-destructive evaluation, polymerics, material properties, and space environmental effects, the team’s multidisciplinary approach enables development of cutting-edge science and exploration systems.

The Materials Engineering lab personnel excel at quick-turnaround investigations, utilizing a wide range of capabilities to thoroughly evaluate hardware anomalies through microscopy techniques, non-destructive evaluation, destructive analysis, metallography, and materials properties testing—all essential for end-to-end science mission operations from design through spacecraft operation. Materials and Processes Engineers deliver expertise in material selection and qualification to Goddard programs and external partners, ensuring mission-driven capabilities that support diverse space flight activities.

Materials Engineer using a scanning electron microscope to analyze microstructure and elemental composition of a sample for root cause analysis of a hardware anomaly
Materials Engineer using a scanning electron microscope to analyze microstructure and elemental composition of a sample for root cause analysis of a hardware anomaly

The experienced personnel evaluate diverse systems used in spaceflight hardware and ground support equipment, while also leading comprehensive investigations of hardware failures and anomalies. Through portable non-destructive evaluation capabilities, they perform critical on-site inspections at Goddard and partner facilities, supporting root cause analysis essential for mission success. The materials laboratories also house state-of-the-art analytical instruments for compositional analysis, advanced microscopy, and characterizing mechanical and physical properties in extreme environments such as cryogenic and thermal vacuum conditions. These capabilities directly enable the development of new technologies and high-performance, cost-effective solutions that advance spaceflight.

Materials Engineering is managed by ETD’s Mechanical Systems Division (MSD). Contact MSD for more information.