The Mars Climate Orbiter Failure: When a Unit Conversion Destroyed a Spacecraft
NASA’s Mars Climate Orbiter was lost during Mars orbit insertion after a unit-conversion mismatch between ground software systems caused navigation errors. The failure remains one of engineering’s most important lessons in interface verification, systems communication, and unit consistency.
The May Ethical Dilemma: Area of Expertise and Oversight
Was it ethical for Engineer Ted to accept the position of county surveyor?
May 2026 Pop Quiz for Engineers
Spice up your brain this Cinco de Mayo with this month's Pop Quiz for Engineers that brings the fiesta to engineering fundamentals. No margarita required—just sharp thinking and a taste for learning.
How the U.S. Finally Recognized Engineering as an Academic Discipline
Engineering shaped the early United States long before universities recognized it as an academic discipline. This article explores how practical problem-solving evolved into formal education, and how the Morrill Act and growing infrastructure demands finally pushed institutions to legitimize engineering.
The Skyline Plaza Collapse (1973): When Construction Sequence Becomes Structural Failure
The 1973 Skyline Plaza collapse is a defining case study in construction-stage failure, where premature shoring removal, insufficient concrete strength, and sequencing errors led to a progressive collapse. This article examines the root causes and key lessons for professional engineers.
The April Ethical Dilemma: Conflict of Interest as an Expert Witness
Was it ethical for Engineer Greg to be retained as an expert witness for the contractor under these circumstances?