CAELESTIS in 2024:
A Year of Breakthroughs in Aerospace Engineering
2024 was a significant year for CAELESTIS, a pioneering project revolutionizing aerospace engineering and manufacturing. A key highlight was the development of an advanced simulation ecosystem, a crucial step towards modernizing aircraft production. This cutting-edge platform integrates powerful computational tools and data analytics to minimize defects, enhance precision and streamline manufacturing processes. By simulating real-world conditions, CAELESTIS is paving the way for a new generation of aircraft that are not only lighter and more fuel-efficient, but also safer and more environmentally friendly. This aligns with the European Union’s Green Deal and its objective leading global efforts in sustainable aviation technologies.
In addition to its broader ecosystem development, CAELESTIS made impressive progress in defect detection and prediction by integrating innovative monitoring technologies into automated manufacturing systems. The introduction of real-time sensing tools, such as thermal cameras and profilometers, has allowed for precise detection of defects like gaps, overlaps, and misalignments during fiber placement. Combined with advanced algorithms, these tools enable immediate identification and correction of anomalies, ensuring superior component quality from the outset.
Moreover, significant advances were achieved in simulating and optimizing critical components such as Outlet Guide Vanes (OGVs), a key element in modern jet engines. By developing digital twins and high-fidelity models, CAELESTIS has been able to simulate complex manufacturing processes—including injection molding, void prediction, and structural performance—under real-world conditions. This capability not only enhances production efficiency but also ensures that the manufactured components meet stringent safety and performance standards.
Throughout the year, CAELESTIS leveraged high-performance computing (HPC) to conduct large-scale simulation campaigns, performing tens of thousands of virtual tests. This massive computational effort provided a robust dataset for machine learning models, which were trained to predict material behavior and component performance more accurately. Such predictive capabilities are essential for optimizing designs, reducing costs, and accelerating time-to-market for next-generation aerospace structures.
Communicating Innovation: Engaging with Stakeholders
Effective communication and outreach were central to CAELESTIS’ activities in 2024. The project team actively engaged a diverse audience, including researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, and the general public, through newsletters, social media and participation in flagship conferences and events.
14th International EASN Conference: In October, CAELESTIS hosted a workshop at this impactful event in Thessaloniki, Greece, focusing on the integration of machine learning, virtual prototyping, and digital manufacturing. This hands-on experience provided attendees with valuable insights into how CAELESTIS is tackling critical challenges in the aerospace industry, such as reducing production times and enhancing material performance.
“Building the Future: Engineering Roles Explained”: This workshop, organized by GKN Aerospace in Gothenburg, Sweden, celebrated the contributions of women engineers within CAELESTIS and the broader aerospace sector. By highlighting the essential roles of women in shaping the future of sustainable aviation, the event aimed to inspire future generations of engineers and foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce in STEM fields
CAELESTIS attended the AIT Technology Talks 2024 held in Vienna, Austria which emphasized Europe’s transition towards a more sustainable future through digitalization, green technologies and industrial innovation. The project showcased its advancements in AI-driven manufacturing, demonstrating how these technologies are not only crucial for reducing carbon emissions but also essential for improving production efficiency in the aerospace sector. This participation reinforced CAELESTIS’ position as a key player in Europe’s innovation ecosystem, aligning with the continent’s vision for a sustainable, green and digitally empowered future.
Looking Ahead
As 2024 comes to a close, CAELESTIS is poised for an even more ambitious 2025. Plans are underway to enhance the simulation ecosystem further, refine defect prediction algorithms, and strengthen partnerships with industry leaders. Key next steps include the deployment of edge computing devices for real-time data processing and launching pilot programs that will validate CAELESTIS’ innovations in real-world manufacturing environments.
By integrating machine learning-driven models with digital twins, CAELESTIS aims to transition from research and development to operational testing, marking a pivotal phase in the project. The insights gained from large-scale simulations and real-world validation will not only bolster the aerospace industry’s technological capabilities but also contribute to its long-term sustainability goals.
The final phase of the project, culminating in October 2025, will unveil the full results and impact of CAELESTIS’ innovations. The project will release more detailed findings, engaging video content, and expert insights, leading to a final event showcasing the project’s outcomes to the public. Stay tuned for more updates as CAELESTIS approaches its conclusion and sets the stage for the future of aerospace innovation!
Find out more about RTDS Group's work with CAELESTIS
RTDS Association is supporting implementation and management of European research and innovation projects to optimise the use of results for maximum impact. RTDS has a proven track record in enabling the innovators to move research and technology from the lab to the market.
