When you really think about it, computer science and space exploration started not that long ago. The 1960s was the well-known use of computer science in the space industry because of the program for Apollo 11. Back then you had to write code on paper and punch holes through cards to create programs. There is a lot more to how code was created than those two things — it was a tedious and long process.
Computer science is an extremely necessary part of the space industry and helps it develop more over the years. Some ways computer science is used include:
- Weather forecasting
- Data generating
- Rocket trajectory
- Simulations
- Robotics
- Spacecrafts
Weather forecasting
Computers help create weather predictions based off of their given data and make calculations. Computers were first used in weather forecasting in 1955 and were only correct about 30% of the time, but as of 2024 that has improved to around 60%.
Rocket trajectory
Computer science helped speed up and deal with complex tasks like calculating rocket trajectory. A NASA public affairs specialist, Phillip Hargrove, was a trajectory analyst and ensured that rockets launched at the correct trajectory, speed, and direction with computer science. He used computers to do the math needed to make the correct decisions.
Simulations
There are different simulations that are made to help train astronauts and show mission performance predictions. Computer science is used to create these simulations to help astronauts and avoid possible dangers. These simulations also give data on how different vehicles work.
Robotics
Robots are being sent to space, so something has to control and create them. If you didn't guess — it's computers. Computers and programs are necessary to create robots and collect data through them.
Data
Storing data is an important part of computer science in the space industry because of how much information is needed to keep missions safe and increase our knowledge of the vast unknown. This allows scientists to keep up with new information without being overwhelmed by it. Computer science is also used to sort and find patterns in data, allowing information to be maintained in the best way possible.
Spacecraft
Computer science is used to calculate things like fuel for the spacecraft and other values that help engineers design spacecraft. It is also used to create automated tests that check whether a spacecraft can endure different environments, vacuums, and vibrations.
Conclusion
Computer science plays a major role in the success of space exploration and is used in many different areas to ensure safe missions, collect data, and create spacecraft.
Citations
- Computing in Space Exploration History — The Planetary Society. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.
- The Role of Computers in Space Exploration — ExploreSpace360. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.
- Simulation & Modeling — NASA. 22 Jan. 2026.
- Build Your Computer Science Skills with NASA — NASA. 5 June 2024.
