Astronautics Books

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisNeil Armstrong biography. This book is full of never-before-seen photos and personal details written down for the first time, including what Neil really felt when he took that first step on the moon, what life in NASA was like, and what he felt the future of space exploration should be.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn “exciting” minute-by-minute account of the Apollo 13 flight based on mission control transcripts from Houston (The New York Times). On the evening of April 13, 1970, the three astronauts aboard Apollo 13 were just hours from the third lunar landing in history. But as they soared through space, two hundred thousand miles from Earth, an explosion badly damaged their spacecraft. With compromised engines and failing life-support systems, the crew was in incomparably grave danger. Faced with below-freezing temperatures, a seriously ill crewmember, and a dwindling water supply, a safe return seemed unlikely.Thirteen is the shocking and miraculous true story of how the astronauts and ground crew guided Apollo 13 back to Earth. Expanding on dispatches written for the New Yorker, Henry S. F. Cooper Jr. brings readers unparalleled detail on the moment-by-moment developments of one of NASA’s most dramatic missions. Trade Review“Cooper’s Thirteen is exciting. . . . Close to what may be an authentic poetry of our period.” —The New York Times“Make no mistake about it. Thirteen tells a marvelous story. A lot of readers will take the book at a single gulp, unable to stop reading.” —The Washington Post“[An] impressive piece of reportorial research . . . Compelling reading.” —Chicago TribuneTable of Contents Dedication Contents OUT AROUND BACK HOME ACKNOWLEDGMENTS About the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis volume of the series Springer Briefs in Space Life Sciences explains the physics and biology of radiation in space, defines various forms of cosmic radiation and their dosimetry, and presents a range of exposure scenarios. It also discusses the effects of radiation on human health and describes the molecular mechanisms of heavy charged particles’ deleterious effects in the body. Lastly, it discusses countermeasures and addresses the vital question: Are we ready for launch? Written for researchers in the space life sciences and space biomedicine, and for master’s students in biology, physics, and medicine, the book will also benefit all non-experts endeavouring to understand and enter space.Table of Contents General Introduction: Small Particles, Large Effects (Berger, Baumstark, Hellweg, Matthiä) Radiation in Space – The Physics The Radiation Field in Space (Matthiä, Berger) i. Galactic cosmic rays ii. Solar radiation iii. Trapped radiation iv. Dose quantities The History of Space Radiation Dosimetry (Berger) i. From Mercury to MIR ii. Human Phantom Experiments Exposure Scenarios: Measuring and Modeling of Space Radiation (Berger, Matthiä) i. LEO ii. Interplanetary Space iii. Moon iv. Mars Radiation in Space – The Biology Acute Radiation Effects (Baumstark, Hellweg) Chronic and Late Radiation Effects (Baumstark, Hellweg) Radiation Risk Assessment (Baumstark, Hellweg) Molecular Mechanisms of Heavy Charged Particles Effects (Baumstark, Hellweg) Nutritional and Pharmaceutical Countermeasures (Baumstark, Hellweg) Challenges for Exploratory Missions (Berger, Baumstark, Hellweg, Matthiä) Dosimetry and Shielding: Are we Ready for Launch? Open Questions in Risk Assessment: Can we Tame the Radiation Risk? Countermeasures: Do we Know Enough?

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis open access book serves as a concise primer introducing the non-specialist reader to the physics of solar energetic particles (SEP). It systematically reviews the evidence for the two main mechanisms which lead to the so-called impulsive and gradual SEP events. This second edition contains two completely new chapters discussing element abundances and shock waves, reflecting new theoretical, modeling, and observational results. Existing chapters have been substantially expanded or updated with additions placed in a broader context.More specifically, the author discusses the timing of the onsets of SEPs, their longitude distributions, their high-energy spectral shapes, their correlations with other solar phenomena, as well as the all-important elemental and isotopic abundances. The book relates impulsive SEP events to magnetic reconnection in solar flares and jets. The concept of shock acceleration by scattering on self-amplified Alfvén waves is introduced, as is the evidence of reacceleration of impulsive-SEP material in the seed population accessed by the shocks in gradual events. The text then develops processes of transport of ions out to an observer. Finally, a technique to determine the source plasma temperature in both impulsive and gradual events is demonstrated.The author also mentions the role of SEP events as a radiation hazard in space and briefly discusses the nature of the main particle telescope designs that have contributed to most of the SEP measurements.Trade Review“Donald V. Reames presents a clear contemporary account of observational and theoretical studies of the principal families of solar energetic particles (SEPs) … . A delightful sense that this lively presentation is drawn from Reames’ decades of experimental investigations of SEPs pervades the book. … This excellent primer by Reames is a thorough account of SEP events with parallel discussions of the solar wind. It deserves to be read by stellar astronomers.” (David L. Lambert, The Observatory, Vol. 142 (1287), April, 2022)Table of Contents

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book presents a step-by-step methodology for the design of ramjet engines. It explores ramjet combustion, provides guidelines on how to size the engines, and discusses performance analysis. The book begins with an introduction to ramjet design, including fundamental definitions in the field. It then discusses ramjet engine performance, and fuels which can be used. Several types of ramjet engines are then explored, and guidelines for their design are presented, including flame holders, injectors, and combustors. Finally, the book concludes with a discussion of the types of materials which should be used for ramjet engines. This book is of interest to engine designers and engineers, researchers, and graduate students, as it collates research in a succinct, clear guide to the issue of designing ramjet engines. Table of ContentsIntroduction.- Fundamental Definitions of Ramjet Engines.- Ramjet Engines Performance.- Ramjets Fuels.- Flameholders Design Guidelines.- Injectors Design Guidelines.- Combustor Design Guidelines.- Igniter Design Guidelines.- Material Selection for Ramjet Engines.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis brief addresses the design of model predictive control algorithms for performing space rendezvous manoeuvres. It consolidates developments within guidance and control algorithms, with the aim of improving the efficiency, safety, and autonomy of these manoeuvres. The brief presents several applications of model predictive control to rendezvous manoeuvres, including Ankersen zero-order-hold particular solution1, which provides a realistic thrust profile. It offers new approaches for rendezvous manoeuvres in elliptical orbits, formulating obstacle avoidance constraints, passive safety constraints, and robustness techniques. It also compares finite-horizon and variable-horizon formulations for model predictive control in the context of performance and computational complexity. Predictive Control for Spacecraft Rendezvous is accessible to academics and students new to the topics of orbital rendezvous and model predictive control, but also presents compelling subject matter for researchers and professionals in the aerospace industry.Table of ContentsIntroduction.- Model Predictive Control.- Relative Orbital Mechanics.- Rendezvous With Model Predictive Control.- Conclusions and Future Work.

Read more less

Book SynopsisApproaching the settlement of our Moon from a practical perspective, this book is well suited for space program planners. It addresses a variety of human factor topics involved in colonizing Earth's Moon, including: history, philosophy, science, engineering, agriculture, medicine, politics & policy, sociology, and anthropology. Each chapter identifies the complex, interdisciplinary issues of the human factor that arise in the early phases of settlement on the Moon. Besides practical issues, there is some emphasis placed on preserving, protecting, and experiencing the lunar environment across a broad range of occupations, from scientists to soldiers and engineers to construction workers. The book identifies utilitarian and visionary factors that shape human lives on the Moon. It offers recommendations for program planners in the government and commercial sectors and serves as a helpful resource for academic researchers. Together, the coauthors ask and attempt to answer: “How will lunar society be different?”Trade Review“I think the editors have done a good job in producing a wide-ranging summary of societal issues that will surely be relevant if and when humans choose to settle our nearest celestial neighbour.” (Ian Crawford, The Observatory, Vol. 142 (1289), August, 2022)Table of ContentsChapter 1. “Practical Planning Commences: Next Steps in the Settlement of Earth’s Moon”.- Part I. History and Philosophy of Lunar Settlement.- Chapter 2. “Historical and Philosophical Perspectives on Human Settlement of Earth’s Moon”.- Part II. Engineering, Astronomy, and Construction.- Chapter 3. “Engineering the Moon: Power Generation and Distribution, and Network Installations for Professional Research Purposes”.- Chapter 4. “The Changing Lunar Surface Environment: Hazards and Resources for Humans”.- Chapter 5. “Plants under the Moonlight; The Biology and Installation of Industrial Plants for Lunar Settlements”.- Chapter 6. “The Hazards and Opportunities of Lunar Regolith in Greenhouse Agriculture on the Moon”.- Part III. Medical and Health Aspects of Human Lunar Settlement.- Chapter 7. “Consideration of the Long-Term Effects of Hypogravity”.- Chapter 8. “Changes in the Central Nervous System and Their Clinical Correlates during Long-Term Habitation in the Moon's Environment”.- Chapter 9. “Hazards of Lunar Regolith for Respiratory, Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular and Ocular Function”.- Part IV. Social, Political, and Legal Frameworks for Lunar Settlement.- Chapter 10. “International Treaties and the Future of the Nation-State Concept on Luna”.- Chapter 11. “The Military on the Moon: Geopolitical, Diplomatic, and Environmental Implications”.- Chapter 12. “Lunar Settlement and the Right to Return to Earth”.- Part V. Philosophical, Educational, and Religious Perspectives on Lunar Settlement.- Chapter 13. “Lunar Settlement, Space Refuge, and Quality of Life: A Prevention Policy for the Future of Humans on the Moon”.- Chapter 14. “The Emergence of an Environmental Ethos on Luna”.- Chapter 15. “Environmental and Occupational Ethics in Early Lunar Populations; Establishing Guidelines for Future Off-World Settlements”.- Chapter 16. “Religious Experience in Lunar Conditions: A New Environment and Awareness”.- Chapter 17. “Science and Faith Off-Earth”.- Part VI. Psychological and Cultural Perspectives on the Human Lunar Experience.- Chapter 18. “The Future of Love and Sensory Processing Sensitivity on Luna”.- Chapter 19. “Religion in a Lunar Environment: Anthropological Assessment”.- Chapter 20. "Projections for Lunar Culture, Living, and Working: How Will We Be Different?".- Index.- Suggested Readings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book explores cutting-edge topics on hydrogen and fuel cell technologies in aviation. Coverage includes comparisons with conventional technologies, hydrogen storage options, energy management strategies, life cycle assessment, and application of fuel cells in different aerial vehicle classes. It also offers insights into recent progress and new technological developments in the field, along with case studies and practical applications. Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technologies in Aviation is an invaluable guide for students, researchers, and engineers working on sustainable air transportation and the performance and environmental analysis of fuel cell-powered aerial vehicles.Trade Review“This book could be used as an accessible introduction to the concepts of realising hydrogen technologies in aviation but could also be a handy reference for a more experienced researcher, with several practical hints and tips. … this is a clear, concise and useful introduction to the breadth of considerations involved in applying hydrogen technologies in the aviation industry and would be a good addition to the bookshelf for anyone that is seeking to gain deeper understanding … .” (Alex de Bruin, Johnson Matthey Technology Review, Vol. 67 (2), 2023)Table of ContentsTable of Contents 1. Hydrogen Storage Technology for Aerial Vehicles 2. Liquid Hydrogen Fuel Usage in Aviation 3. Fuel Cells for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles 4. Fuel Cell Powered Passenger Aircrafts 5. Energy Management Strategies in a Fuel Cell Powered Aircraft 6. Hydrogen Infrastructure and logistics in Airports 7. Fuel cells as APU in Aircrafts 8. Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems and its potential applications in the aviation industry & beyond

Read more less

Book SynopsisChapter 1. Parametric Approach to Initial Weight Determination at Preliminary Design of a Quadrotor Cargo UAV.- Chapter 2. Comparative Analysis of AI-Supported Drone Operations: Evaluating Critical Aspects Among Pilot Groups.- Chapter 3. Nontraditional Attitude Filtering with Uncertain Process Noise.- Chapter 4. Exergetic Attribute of Fuel Cells In Hydrogen Aviation Including UAVs.- Chapter 5. Direct Numerical Simulation of a Thermal Turbulent Boundary Layer: An Analogy to Simulate Bushfires and a Testbed for Artificial Intelligence Remote Sensing of Bushfire Propagation.- Chapter 6. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Cooperation for The Monitoring of Greenhouse Gases.- Chapter 7. Fast-Time Large-Scale Simulations for Unmanned Air Traffic Airspace Capacity Assessment.- Chapter 8. On The Technological and Operational Aspects of the Greening of Aviation.- Chapter 9. Review and Analysis of the Integration Properties of an Aircraft with a Hybrid Power Plant.- Chapter 10. Optimization of Quadcopter Energy Consumption: Insights from Wind Condition Analysis and Trajectory Planning.- Chapter 11. Sustainable Aviation Fuels and Their Use for Large Long-Range Aircraft.- Chapter 12. An Overview of The Possibilities, Current Status, and Limitations of Battery Technologies to Electrify Aviation.- Chapter 13. The Potential of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Powered Light Aircraft Employing Cryogenic Hydrogen.- Chapter 14. Fault Tolerant Estimation of UAV Dynamics in the Presence of Sensor/Actuator Faults .- Chapter 15. Hydrogen Storage in a Commuter Aircraft: Combining Classical Engineering Design Process With Model Based System Engineering for CFRP Pressure Vessel Integration.- Chapter 16. Review of Liquid Hydrogen Tanks Design Principles for Short and Medium-Range Civil Flights.- Chapter 17. New Supersonic Aircraft Emission and Air Pollution Assessment At Airport Operational Scenario.- Chapter 18. Aircraft Emission and Fuel Burn Assessment Scenarios at Local and Global Levels.- Chapter 19. Noise Assessment Scenarios for New Airplane Climate Efficient Designs .- Chapter 20. Composite Gradient Coatings Design for Ensuring Electromagnetic Compatibility of On-Board and Ground Electronic Equipment.- Chapter 21. Renewable Energy Systems for Airports And Aerodromes: a Comprehensive Patent Review and Technological Analysis.- Chapter 22. Adaptation of Smart Energy Map to Transportation Domain a Case Study to Small Airfield Buildings and Other Infrastructures.- Chapter 23. Modeling the Noise Characteristics of a Regional Turboprop Hybrid-Electric Aircraft .- Chapter 24. Concepts of Commercial Aircraft with Hybrid Propulsion.- Chapter 25. Highly Accurate and Confident Basic Aircraft Noise Assessment Scenario.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith current technology, a voyage to Mars and back will take threeyears. That’s a lot of time for things to go wrong. But sooner or latera commercial enterprise will commit itself to sending humans to Mars.How will the astronauts survive? Some things to consider are:ith current technology, a voyage to Mars and back will take threeyears. That’s a lot of time for things to go wrong. But sooner or latera commercial enterprise will commit itself to sending humans to Mars.How will the astronauts survive? Some things to consider are:• Who decides what medical resources are used for whom?Who decides what medical resources are used for whom?• What is the relative weight of mission success and the health of thecrew?What is the relative weight of mission success and the health of thecrew?• Do we allow crewmembers to sacrifi ce their lives for the good of themission?Do we allow crewmembers to sacrifi ce their lives for the good of themission?• And what if a crewmember does perish? Do we store the body forreturn to Earth or give the member a burial in space?Questions like these, and hundreds of others, have been explored byscience fi ction, but scant attention has been paid by those designingmissions. Fortunately, the experience gained in polar exploration morethan 100 years ago provides crews and mission planners with a frameworkto deal with contingencies and it is this that forms the core of this book.Why the parallels between polar and space exploration? Because polarexploration offers a better analogy for a Mars mission today than thoseinvoked by the space community. Although astronauts are routinelycompared to Lewis and Clark, Mars-bound astronauts will be closer in theirroles to polar explorers. And, as much as space has been described as aNew Frontier, Mars bears greater similarity to the polar regions, which iswhy so much can be learned from those who ventured there.And what if a crewmember does perish? Do we store the body forreturn to Earth or give the member a burial in space?Questions like these, and hundreds of others, have been explored byscience fi ction, but scant attention has been paid by those designingmissions. Fortunately, the experience gained in polar exploration morethan 100 years ago provides crews and mission planners with a frameworkto deal with contingencies and it is this that forms the core of this book.Why the parallels between polar and space exploration? Because polarexploration offers a better analogy for a Mars mission today than thoseinvoked by the space community. Although astronauts are routinelycompared to Lewis and Clark, Mars-bound astronauts will be closer in theirroles to polar explorers. And, as much as space has been described as aNew Frontier, Mars bears greater similarity to the polar regions, which iswhy so much can be learned from those who ventured there.Table of ContentsExploration Mission Architectures.- Expedition Leadership.- Bioethics.- Launch and Outbound.- Approach and Landing.- Surviving.- Sacrifice and Death.- Inbound.- Return.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThousands of workers labored at Kennedy Space Center around the clock, seven days a week, for half a year to prepare a mission for the liftoff of Apollo 11. This is the story of what went on during those hectic six months.Countdown to a Moon Launch provides an in-depth look at the carefully choreographed workflow for an Apollo mission at KSC. Using the Apollo 11 mission as an example, readers will learn what went on day by day to transform partially completed stages and crates of parts into a ready-to-fly Saturn V. Firsthand accounts of launch pad accidents, near misses, suspected sabotage, and last-minute changes to hardware are told by more than 70 NASA employees and its contractors. A companion to Rocket Ranch, it includes many diagrams and photographs, some never before published, to illustrate all aspects of the process. NASA’s groundbreaking use of computers for testing and advanced management techniques are also covered in detail.This book will demystify the question of how NASA could build and launch Apollo missions using 1960s technology. You’ll discover that there was no magic involved – just an abundance of discipline, willpower, and creativity.Trade Review“This is a painstakingly researched and compiled book, with nearly 400 pages of finely detailed narrative plus appendices, covering the process of preparing, assembling and testing Apollo Moon rockets—boosters, command/service modules and lunar modules—at the Kennedy Space Center. … it is an enjoyable one. This carefully researched and lovingly written book merits a space on the bookshelf of any Apollo aficionado … .” (Rod Pyle, Quest Magazine, Vol. 23 (4), 2016)“This book is organized into eleven chapters, each rich with original photographs, project schedules, flowcharts, and direct quotations from personal interviews with NASA employees. … It is a great read for space history and aerospace engineering enthusiasts, and finally gives a voice to those ‘nobodies’ who helped Apollo reach the Moon.” (Lisa Westwood, Quest Magazine, Vol. 23 (4), 2016)“This book covers launch preparations for Apollo launches … . This is a fine, fun read with lots of information, especially about coordination and testing. … This book is recommended for anyone with an interest in space and the American space program, but it also contains a wealth of information that could be of interest and use for engineering students and those interested in organizational systems and processes.” (Jeffrey Putnam, Computing Reviews, December, 2015)Table of ContentsIntroduction.– Controlling Complexity.– Requirements, Tests, and Computerization.– The MSOB and the Spacecraft Processing Flow.– The LM Processing Flow—L Minus 181 Days.– The Space Vehicle Processing Flow in the VAB—L Minus 181 Days.– The Processing Flow at the Launch Pad—L Minus 57 Days.– Countdown Demonstration Test—L Minus 19 Days.– Launch Countdown—T Minus 130 Hours.– Plus Time and Near Misses.– Epilogue—Would It Actually Work?.

Read more less