A rubber-band powered mini car shoots forward. A simulation tests a theory. Friendships launch. These are all moments that take place in the Aerodynamics Club.

The Aerodynamics Club meets at the beginning of X-block in room 201 before transitioning over to the engineering room in room 14 of the Unified Arts Building. The club aims to provide a fun space where students can learn and engage in simulations, pushing their understanding of real world aerodynamics.

Sophomores and co-leaders Liam Josephs and Adriano Perola have shared their interest in aerodynamics since kindergarten, when they became friends. Perola said seeing aerodynamics in the real world made him want to explore the concept further.

“If you look at a bird, it doesn’t make sense how they can manipulate the air around them to stay in flight,” Perola said. “I’ve always been intrigued by that, so that’s one of the reasons I wanted to start the club: to explore those concepts and see why they work.”

Perola said the club is currently teaching its members how to make base and reference models before they move onto more advanced simulations.

“We’re starting with creating a base, and then we’re going to be teaching everyone how to use different simulations,” Perola said. “So for now, we have used some of the NASA simulations. They’re pretty beginner friendly, and they also have good explanations on how to use them.”

According to club member and sophomore Liam Kwintner, the club’s use of aerodynamic related competitions makes it feel fun and relaxed. Kwintner’s favorite project has been a propeller car, which the club designed using a rubber band that launched it forward.

“The things we do, it’s less about math and more [about] experimenting, trying new things, meeting new people, learning how to work with teammates and persevering when you make a mistake,” Kwintner said.

Josephs said that he and Perola also aim to provide a sense of community for their members. The two leaders said they want the club’s environment to be laid back and fun, while also teaching aerodynamics.

“It’s really chill. Even people who feel like they might have to do homework can still come and relax and hang out because it’s just that type of community. Everybody is really open. We’re all becoming better friends, so it’s a really nice space,” Perola said.

According to Josephs, the club’s friendly and nonjudgemental atmosphere allows members who join late to get involved in projects.

“We’re inclusive. It doesn’t really matter what time of the year you join,” Josephs said.

Josephs said the club eventually wants people to understand that the field of aerospace is difficult but also rewarding. They plan to do this by focusing on collaboration and community.

“We’re a very fun, flexible environment,” Josephs said. “Although it’s centralized around aerodynamics, it’s more about the community.”