Understanding Space : An Introduction to Astronautics

Understanding Space provides an excellent in-depth explanation of astronautic principles making it a must-have for undergrad aerospace students.

This is an introductory text in astronautics designed for managers and young engineers new to the space field. The study of astronautics and space missions can appear difficult at times, but our goal is to bring space down to Earth and de-mystify it, so each reader understands the big picture with confidence. It contains historical background and a discussion of space missions, space environment, orbits, atmospheric entry, spacecraft design, spacecraft subsystems, and space operations. This is a truly user-friendly, full-color text focused on understanding concepts and practical applications but written in a down-to-earth, engaging manner that painlessly helps you understand complex topics. It is laid out with multi-color highlights for key terms and ideas, reinforced with detailed example problems, and supported by detailed section reviews summarizing key concepts, terms, and equations.

Inside this new second edition, you'll find:

Space missions

History of space

Orbits and interplanetary trajectories

Atmospheric re-entry

Space system engineering

Spacecraft subsystems

Space operations and support

Economics of space

Satellite communications

Space law, politics,and economics This is a truly user-friendly, full-color text focused on understanding concepts and practical applications but written in a down-to-earth, engaging manner that painlessly helps you understand complex topics. It is laid out with multi-color highlights for key terms and ideas, reinforced with detailed example problems, and supported by detailed section reviews summarizing key concepts, terms, and equations.