Space science Books

Book SynopsisA detailed, illustrated look at NASA's Mercury space program in the 1960s.Trade Reviewthese are the most detailed accounts I know of these pioneering programmes, bringing back memories of long ago for those of us old enough, providing inspiration for those not. - Ray Ward, Popular Astronomy, Dec 2016

Read more less

Book SynopsisTaking a balanced look at issues that have contributed to decline of America's manned space program, such as lack of political support and funding, this book offers not only a critique but also a plan for enhancing US space security through cooperation rather than competition. It focuses on how policy changes of mid-1990s have changed the nation.Trade ReviewAny discussion of space policy would benefit from the informed, reasoned opinions of Joan Johnson-Freese. -- Eve Lichtgarn The Space ReviewTable of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments 1. A Clash of Ambitions 2. The Conundrum of Dual-Use Technology 3. From Apollo to Where? 4. The Militarization of Space 5. The Weaponization of Space 6. The Politicization of the U.S. Aerospace Industry 7. The Ambitions of Europe 8. The Ambitions of China 9. Avoiding a Clash of Ambitions: Toward a Comprehensive U.S. Space Strategy Notes Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisOn July 20th, 1969, over half of the world's population tuned in to witness the first lunar landing, waiting with bated breath as Neil Armstrong ventured outside the cabin door of Apollo 11 and declared "that's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind." As the most expensive civilian scientific and technological program in American history, Project Apollo symbolised the unmatched prestige of American space exploration. Yet despite appearances, the project was never just about winning the Space Race, advancing scientific progress, or even conquering the final frontier. Instead, the ambitions of Project Apollo would ultimately reveal that the American government was more interested in establishing its superiority much closer to home.In Operation Moonglow, Smithsonian curator Teasel Muir-Harmony explores how and why the moon landing became one of the most decisive geopolitical events of the 20th century. In the wake of the Soviet Union's pioneering launch of Sputnik in 1957 and a humiliating defeat at the Bay of Pigs four years later, President John F. Kennedy approached a budget-wary Congress with Project Apollo, an unconventional proposal that had the potential to restore America's tarnished geopolitical standing. With Cold War tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States approaching an all-time high, Kennedy argued that ramping up the space program would inspire global confidence in American excellence -- and might even persuade people in developing countries to pick American "freedom" over Soviet "tyranny." Following the successful return of Apollo 11, its illustrious crew embarked on a diplomatic tour around the world, celebrating the mission as an accomplishment for all of humanity. Meanwhile, the accompanying American officials used the trip as an opportunity to conduct secret meetings with influential heads of state, leveraging the space program's global popularity to advance American values and interests.More than just a history of spaceships, astronauts, and moon rocks, Operation Moonglow is a history of geopolitical manoeuvring, of propaganda and public diplomacy, and -- above all -- of the intricate relationship between scientific innovation and national identity. Featuring first-hand accounts by Apollo astronauts, original interviews with USIA and NASA staff, and never-before-seen archival materials, Operation Moonglow is the definitive account of the Apollo mission -- and a fascinating look at how the Space Race shaped the contours of globalisation and global interdependence.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is for everyone with an interest in whether there is extraterrestrial life. Recent discoveries of planets beyond the solar system (more than 4000 of them) suggest that the question is not 'whether?' but 'where?'. This book enables general readers to understand current endeavours to answer this question and the related one of 'what kind?'Trade Review'Wallace Arthur addresses the most exciting question in science: 'Are we alone?' His brilliant exposition argues convincingly that we are likely to go through a Copernican revolution regarding the biological universe and discover that we are not at its centre.' Avi Loeb, Chair of the Harvard Astronomy department'An engaging, well-informed, and accessible guide to one of the great questions. Thoroughly enjoyable and unputdownable.' Peter Atkins, Emeritus Professor of Physical Chemistry, University of Oxford, and fellow of Lincoln College'The Biological Universe performs a fascinating dissection of our tree of life, asking which of its features we might share with other such trees on worlds throughout the Galaxy. A truly unique perspective on finding life in the Universe, which starts with who is eating whom in the soil under our feet.' Elizabeth Tasker, author of The Planet Factory'In this thought-provoking book, Arthur's deep knowledge of life and its myriad manifestations, coupled with a cosmologist's understanding of the cosmos at large, enables him to explore one of science's greatest mysteries - how the biological and physical universes relate to one another. Does life exist beyond this planet? What form would it take? How could we detect it? Arthur musters fact, logic, and intuition, in his far-reaching attempt to nail down life's place within the wider cosmic dimension.' Addy Pross, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel'Wallace Arthur takes us on a fascinating journey to discover if and how our living planet is unique in the universe. In his characteristically engaging style, he propels his story with sharp questions, arresting details, and vivid explanations, so that we arrive, via photosynthesis-stealing slugs and the extremes of extraterrestrial atmospheres, at a new understanding of ourselves and our world.' Ronald Jenner, Natural History Museum, London, UK'Wallace Arthur's book The Biological Universe is highly significant. We will soon know if we are alone in the universe. The next few years could provide us with this long-sought answer. This book, extremely well written, tells us how.' Simon 'Pete' Worden, Executive Director, Breakthrough Initiatives, Luxembourg and USA'Working his way up from first principles of physics, chemistry, and biology, Wallace Arthur asks what is needed for life to exist. In his familiar readable style, he then asks whether these requirements are likely to be found elsewhere in the universe, and answers with a resounding 'Yes'. Anyone who works on the evolution of life on Earth will have asked themselves similar questions. Arthur's presentation of the questions, and of the answers, is both enjoyable and eye-opening.' Ariel Chipman, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel'Arthur has done an admirable job pulling together all these different fields and his explanations of tricky topics are clear.' Lewis Dartnell'Wallace Arthur's The Biological Universe is a romp through astrobiology intended for general readers. Curiously, we meet almost no one along the way … The Biological Universe covers an impressive amount of territory.' Max Dresow, The Quarterly Review of BiologyTable of ContentsPart I. Painting Big Pictures: 1. A tree with millions of twigs; 2. A galaxy with billions of planets; 3. The likelihood of other trees; Part II. Life Here, Implications for Elsewhere: 4. A thin sliver of existence; 5. Energy and life; 6. Habitats and life; 7. Skeletons and life; 8. Intelligence and life; Part III. Planetary Systems and Life: 9. Types of planetary system; 10. Habitable zones; 11. Other habitability factors; 12. How many inhabited planets?; Part IV. Discovering Life: 13. On the repeatability of evolution; 14. Candidate planets; 15. Atmospheric signatures; 16. Radio and life; 17. Sixty years of SETI; Part V. Beyond the Milky Way: 18. The physical universe; 19. The biological universe; 20. The intelligent universe; Bibliography; Acknowledgements.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Earths Beginning are lectures which were delivered in the Royal Institution of Great Britain. It considers the majestic subject of the evolution of the solar system of which our earth forms a part. The nebular theory discloses the beginning of this earth itself. It shows how the foundations of this solid earth have been laid, and how it is that we have land to tread on and air to breathe. But the subject has a scope far wider than merely in its relation to our earth.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book provides information on the planned National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) program which is expected to be a state-of-the-art, environment-monitoring satellite system which will replace two existing polar-orbiting environmental satellite systems. The NPOESS program is considered critical to the United States'' ability to maintain the continuity of data required for weather forecasting (including severe weather events such as hurricanes) and global climate monitoring through the year 2026. Furthermore, this book evaluates the NPOESS program office''s progress in restructuring the acquisition, evaluates their progress in establishing an effective management structure, and assesses the reliability of the life cycle cost estimate and proposed schedule. This book also identifies the status and key risks facing the program''s major segments and evaluates the adequacy of the program''s efforts to mitigate these risks.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAstrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe. This book offers an analysis undertaken from the perspective of science education, to discuss the nature of the particular challenges faced by those seeking to facilitate public education in the field of astrobiology. The authors also address the question of the formation of a protocell and its function at the system level. It will further deal with the environmental pressures likely present on the early Earth, as they would have influenced the lifetime of unstable or reactive components needed for the start of life. In addition, the method of the transition from prebiotic organic microsystems to the primordial communities of prokaryotes is explored. The authors also explain some aspects related to aqueous interfacial processes in the context of prebiotic chemistry under the point of view of our current experimental results. Moreover, there is considerable interest in astrobiology in investigating icy worlds and the microbial forms that thrive in extreme environments, especially under those cold conditions that can provide a model for some extraterrestrial environments. This book reviews the general trends concerning the biodiversity and ecology of psychrophilic microorganisms and their molecular mechanisms of adaptation and evolution, as well as summarise the latest results on this topic in samples from icy environments. Other chapters summarise the morphological signatures of flowing water, the astrobiological potential of the dunes, and the theoretical modelling background of the presence of liquid water on Mars today.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this book, the authors gather research from across the globe in the study of the characteristics, composition and orbits of comets. Topics discussed include the role of collisions and magneto-electrochemistry in the planetary origins of comets; 19th century cometary observations; icy particles of cometary atmosphere; cavities as a source of outbursts from comets; infrared observations of comets and the role of comets as contributors to the early evolution of Earth.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSpace transportation is the movement of, or means of moving objects, such as communications and observation satellites, to, from, or in space. Commercial space transportation is carried out by vehicles owned and operated by private companies or organisations. Today, the U.S. is among several countries that offer commercial launch services and comprise at least 25 percent of all launches world-wide. This book focuses on recent trends in the commercial space launch industry, challenges that the FAA faces in overseeing the industry, and emerging issues that will affect the federal role.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPulsars are highly magnetised, rotating neutron stars that emit a beam of electromagnetic radiation. The radiation can only be observed when the beam of emission is pointing towards the Earth. This is called the lighthouse effect and gives rise to the pulsed nature that gives pulsars their name. This book reviews research from around the globe in the field of pulsars including anomalous X-ray pulsars; the arrival directions of ultrahigh energy extensive air particles registered at the Yakutsk extensive air shower array from 1974 to 2007; the observed rotation period of pulsar time properties; measuring the moment of inertia of the double pulsar and its usefulness in testing modified models of gravity and others.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book illustrates observed values and properties of neutron stars, field theoretical approaches of hadrons to high density matter, such as nuclear and hyperonic matter, signals of dynamical phenomena, hadronic and hadron-quark neutron stars, radiations from high density matter and supernova phenomena. However, it is not intended to report facts and results at front-line research fields, because numerous conference reports suffice the objectives. The purpose of editing the book is to review related areas of nuclear physics and astrophysics in terms of equations of state of high density matter so as to promote mutual understandings and their consistent progresses. It is focused on theoretical relations between equations of state (EOS) and observables. These topics of high density matter, which extend across many fields of physics, should be frequently reviewed for researchers and people in general.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this book, the authors present topical research in the study of the structure, formation and exploration of the solar system. Topics discussed in this compilation include a quantum-like model to search the origin of the solar system structure; close binaries, eccentric exojupiters, and the solar system; harnessing energy from the sun by splitting water using Mn-oxo or Co-based catalytic systems to mimic photosynthesis; a relativistic positioning system exploiting pulsating sources for navigation across the solar system and the role of solar wind dynamics on interstellar dust in the solar system.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAt the end of the 20th century, it was discovered that the expansion of the Universe is speeding up. This acceleration is attributed to dark energy, which seems to be distributed uniformly almost everywhere and thus essentially influences the Hubble parameter H = H(t) characterising this expansion. In this book, the authors present current research in the study of the theory, implications and roles in cosmology of dark energy. Topics include gravitational aberration and the origin of dark energy; the role of dark energy in the evolution of the universe; the importance of supernova observations for exploring the nature of dark energy; and deformed quantum field theory, thermodynamics at low and high energies, and the dark energy problem.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this volume of Primordial Space it is explained how unpredictable quanta of the strong and electroweak force can bring forth both a macro-space-time as we perceive it and a pattern of material phenomena with which we have been familiarized by the standard model of particle physics. However, there is a price we have to pay for this. The Heisenberg uncertainty relation discloses itself in the fancy dress of a set of irregular locations: the deadlock singularity for particle fields at rest and the topological defect structure of the boson field where the zero norm signifies a turnover of the time-like base unit into a nilpotent isotropic direction field. Time does not go without saying. But where the time-arrow is created within the strong force, there emerge anti-reflexive neighbourhoods in the multivector fields of space-time. Hyperbolic neighbourhood systems of primordial phenomena carry those waves that decompose time and energy. Primordial space helps you to look at events with a fresh mind without entirely destroying traditional physics.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn recent years, interest in space activities has grown more and more and there are future space exploration plans that include human missions to the Moon and Mars. The return to the Moon will rely on a large robotic presence to support exploration and, later, to assist the building of the lunar base. These plans will thus require the availability of intelligent, interactive and co-operative robotic systems since, on space missions, astronaut time is valuable and very scarce (they have to focus on research requiring their expertise rather than on routine procedures). Therefore, there is the need of developing skills, capabilities and operational experience for working in space and on the surface of the Moon (and Mars later) with machines and people, in preparation of further destinations exploration. To this aim, this book examines the future vision, force control and co-ordination strategies of space robotics supporting exploration missions.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThere is the conjuncture that 2012 is a special year in the history of physics, that cannot go unobserved without celebration: 100 years of cosmic ray discovery, the 75th anniversary of Muon discovery and 70 years of the discovery of relativistic solar particles (Ground Level Enhancements). Several symposiums have been held in this regard, among which can be mentioned is that of the one held in Pollau, Austria in May 2012. There is need of a book that pays homage to these historical discoveries. The aim of this book is to collect some typical papers written for researchers of the international cosmic ray community that many scientists and students would like to have in their libraries. The main market for this book are universities and research institutes throughout the world, and mainly in countries where there is an old tradition in cosmic ray research: Europe, USA, México, Canada, East Europe (mainly Russia), Japan, Australia, China, etc. It should also be of interest in scientific societies, professional organisations, or other groups relevant to the several fields of particle physics: eg: The Victor F Hess Society and the European Physical Society/History of Physics Group (EPS/HoP), COSPAR, IUGG, American Geophysical Union, Unión Geofísica Mexicana, and others.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe identification of extraterrestrial chiral compounds could provide compelling evidence to prove that extraterrestrial environments such as Mars have supported some form of life. This book reviews why the study of chirality has been integrated into space exploration and experimentation and what this study might be achieved within the context of space missions. Also discussed herein is the analytical methods used on past space missions and summarise possible future methods planned to facilitate the detection of chirality for future expeditions.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book considers the dramatic early history of cosmic ray discovery and research in all aspects up to about the middle of the 1950s (Part I, Chapters 1-14), the history of CR experimental basis development (Part II, Chapters 15-22), the history of studies in CR and on accelerators for elementary particle and high energy physics (Part III, Chapters 23-28), the history of studies of the influence of the Earth''s atmosphere and atmospheric processes on CR (Part IV, Chapters 29-37), the history of studies of CR influence on the Earth''s atmosphere and atmospheric processes (Part V, Chapters 38-43), histories on the beginning of solar wind theory and CR modulation development, on CR studies on mountains and during the International Geophysical Year and the International Quiet Sun Year, histories of CR stations and research in different CR aspects in many countries such as Armenia, Australia, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Russia and the former USSR (ground and regular balloon observations and research, observations and CR research in Yakutia), Slovakia, and Switzerland (Appendix, Chapters A1-A18).

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe U.S. Government is the largest provider of environmental and Earth-system data in the world. Voluminous amounts of data and information come from a complex array of satellites, ocean buoys, stream gauges, human surveys, and other platforms for collecting what the scientific community calls Earth observations. These data are used every day to protect life and property and answer key questions about our planet. This book establishes a framework for increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nation''s Earth-observation enterprise. The National Plan for Civil Earth Observations aims to maximize the value of observations collected by Federal agencies of the Earth''s land surfaces, oceans, and atmosphere.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe semi-classical description of black holes, as it was originally introduced by Hawking and Bekenstein in the early seventies, where classical solutions of the Einstein equations are coupled to quantum matter fields, opened a window with a glance on the quantum aspects of gravity. This book discusses this semi-classical approach to quantum black holes. It also discuses the philosophical issues about black holes; the Randall-Sundrum II model; the gravitational collapse in alternative theories of gravity; observational limits on modern extended gravity models; and generalized Brans-Dicke models from Kaluza-Klein reductions.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBy September 2014, almost two thousand exoplanets -- planets orbiting other suns -- have been confirmed, among these are also Earth-like planets in the habitable zone of their sun. These breakthrough discoveries during the bygone two decades raise questions with regard to the existence of Life elsewhere in our Milky Way Galaxy. The present book addresses the formation of planetary systems in the wake of collapsing interstellar gas and dust clouds, and the generation as well as the survival and germination of simple molecules serving as modules for more complex molecular constructs that constitute life. In this context, the survival of extremophiles in niches on Earth, and the potentiality of primitive life forms on Mars and the subsurface oceans of selected moons in the Solar System are also addressed, as much as the through-space travel of germs, denoted as panspermia. Readers possessing basic knowledge in chemistry and astronomy will additionally profit from the text in terms of an advanced approach towards facts that introduce more complex background information, in particular information provided in sidebars. However, the book is conceptualized in such a way that the less scholarly reader will equally profit from the narrative style by which background information is provided. Along with panspermia, the Gaia hypothesis and other historical thematisations of life beyond Earth are briefly looked at.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe GPS -- a space-based satellite system that provides positioning, navigation, and timing data to users worldwide -- has become an essential U.S. national security asset and component in daily life. The GPS program is being modernised to enhance its performance, accuracy and integrity. This book assesses the extent to which the Air Force GPS report met Committee requirements; and identifies additional information that is important in guiding future GPS investments.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNASA is undertaking a trio of closely-related programs to continue human space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit: the SLS vehicle; the Orion capsule, which will launch atop the SLS and carry astronauts; and the supporting ground systems. As a whole, the efforts represent NASA''s largest exploration investment over the next decade, potentially as much as $22 billion, to demonstrate initial capabilities. Beyond 2021, NASA plans to incrementally develop progressively more-capable SLS launch vehicles complemented by Orion capsules and ground systems. This book examines the scope of NASA''s preliminary cost estimates for the three programs. It examines the SLS program''s progress toward and risks for its first test flight in 2017; and the extent to which the SLS program has plans in place to achieve its long-term goals and promote affordability.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is primarily concerned with fundamental components of solar physics, terrestrial geophysics and general climate issues. Phenomena such as planetary influence on solar variability, the Sun''s irradiance and solar wind continue to fascinate members of the scientific community. What is more astounding is the way in which our planet reacts to these occurrences; climate changes, sea levels, tides, ocean circulation and geomagnetism, all caused by the processes mentioned above. The pages that follow analyze and calculate the relationships between solar causation and terrestrial reaction. This work begins with a foreword from Walter Cunningham, the famous Apollo 7 astronaut who in 1968 took part in the first manned space flight. Section A is devoted to the concept of planetary-solar-terrestrial interaction and driving forces that represent a break-through in science. The book begins with a high-lightening of records indicating a planetary influence on solar activity and continues with multiple discussions of terrestrial variables. It concludes with an account of the physics behind the changes in the Sun and in the Earth. Section B presents the remarkable decision to terminate the journal of pattern recognition in physics because the authors concluded that we are now on our way into a new grand solar minimum. This inspires doubt in an accelerating global warming. In the name of science and ethics, five papers respond to this "modern book-burning". Section C is devoted to general conclusions, co-authored by 19 eminent scientists in the field of solar physics, geophysics, geology, hydrology and climatology. It also includes a short note on concluding editorial views.

Read more less

Book SynopsisRemote Sensing is the method of measurement of the object properties on the Earth''s surface using data acquired from aircraft and satellites. This method makes it possible to carry out the measurement from the distance for the purpose of this research and to display those measurements over a two-dimensional spatial grid, i.e. images. Remote Sensing method, which is based on the data accessed from satellites, provides an opportunity to observe and monitor the Earth, collect appropriate information with further processing and integration of the Geographic Information System. This book''s aim is to reveal the opportunities of the application of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System advances in wide areas of engineering applications through analyzing its own achievements and challenges as well as creative sources existing in the indicated area. This book examines the conceptual aspects of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System. Its applications are based on implemented projects and its outcomes found a perfect reliable place in the field of engineering.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThere is the conjuncture that 2012 is a special year in the history of physics that cannot go unobserved without celebration: 100 years of cosmic ray discovery, the 75th anniversary of Muon discovery and 70 years of the discovery of relativistic solar particles (Ground Level Enhancements). Several symposiums have been held in this regard, among which can be mentioned is that of the one held in Pollau, Austria in May 2012. There is need of a book that pays homage to these historical discoveries. The aim of this book is to collect some typical papers written for researchers of the international cosmic ray community that many scientists and students would like to have in their libraries. The main market for this book are universities and research institutes throughout the world, and mainly in countries where there is an old tradition in cosmic ray research: Europe, USA, México, Canada, East Europe (mainly Russia), Japan, Australia, China, etc. It should also be of interest in scientific societies, professional organizations, or other groups relevant to the several fields of particle physics: e.g. The Victor F. Hess Society and the European Physical Society/History of Physics Group (EPS/HoP), COSPAR, IUGG, American Geophysical Union, Unión Geofísica Mexicana, and others.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe federal government collects, maintains, and uses geospatial information -- data linked to specific geographic locations -- to help support varied missions, including national security and natural resources conservation. To coordinate geospatial activities, in 1994 the President issued an executive order to develop a National Spatial Data Infrastructure -- a framework for coordination that includes standards, data themes, and a clearinghouse. This book describes the geospatial data that selected federal agencies and states use and how much is spent on geospatial data; assess progress in establishing the National Spatial Data Infrastructure; and determine whether selected federal agencies and states invest in duplicative geospatial data.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSince the retirement of the Space Shuttle Program in July 2011, the United States has lacked a domestic capability to transport crew and -- until recently -- cargo to and from the International Space Station (ISS or Station). Consequently, NASA has been relying on the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) for crew transportation. In anticipation of the Shuttle''s retirement, Congress and the President directed NASA to foster the commercial spaceflight industry as a means of developing domestic cargo and crew transportation capabilities to the Station. In November 2005, NASA created the Commercial Crew and Cargo Program Office and in 2011, activated a separate Commercial Crew Program Office to reflect the increased funding and priority for commercial crew. In June 2013, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued a report examining NASA''s efforts to foster a commercial market for cargo resupply missions to the ISS. The report discusses NASA''s funding over the past 7 years of SpaceX and Orbital to further development of spaceflight capabilities and, on a separate track, the Agency''s contracts with the companies for a combined 20 cargo resupply missions to the ISS. As a complement to that report, this book examines NASA''s efforts to pursue commercial crew capabilities.

Read more less

Book SynopsisScientists classify comets and asteroids that pass within 28 million miles of Earth''s orbit as near-Earth objects (NEOs). Asteroids that collide and break into smaller fragments are the source of most NEOs, and the resulting fragments bombard the Earth at the rate of over 100 tons a day. Although the vast majority of NEOs that enter Earth''s atmosphere disintegrate before reaching the surface, those larger than 100 meters (328 feet) may survive the descent and cause destruction in and around their impact sites. Furthermore, even smaller objects that disintegrate before reaching Earth''s surface can cause significant damage. This book examines NASA''s NEO Program and assesses the Agency''s progress toward meeting statutory and other Program goals. Specifically, it reviews NASA''s allocation and use of resources and plans for the future of the Program.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe U.S. has spent almost $43 billion to develop, assemble, and operate the International Space Station (ISS) over the past two decades. The NASA Authorization Act of 2010 required NASA to enter into a cooperative agreement with a not-for-profit entity to manage the ISS National Laboratory and in 2011 did so with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS). CASIS is charged with maximising use of the ISS for scientific research by executing several required activities. Recently, questions have arisen about the progress being made to implement the required activities and the impact it has had on ISS''s return on the investment. This book assesses the extent to which CASIS has implemented the required management activities; and NASA and CASIS measure and assess CASIS''s performance. Furthermore, this book assesses the extent to which NASA has ensured essential spare parts are available and ISS structures and hardware are sound for continued ISS utilisation through 2020.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBook & CD-ROM. pace weather refers to variations in the space environment between the sun and Earth (and throughout the solar system) that can affect technologies in space and on Earth. Space weather can disrupt the technology that forms the backbone of this country''s economic vitality and national security, including satellite and airline operations, communications networks, navigation systems, and the electric power grid. As the Nation becomes ever more dependent on these technologies, space weather poses an increasing risk to infrastructure and the economy. Further, the Strategic National Risk Assessment has identified space weather as a hazard that poses significant risk to the security of the Nation. Clearly, reducing vulnerability to space weather needs to be a national priority. The National Space Weather Strategy (Strategy) and the accompanying National Space Weather Action Plan (Action Plan) together seek to enhance the integration of existing national efforts and to add important capabilities to help meet growing demands for space-weather information. The Strategy and Action Plan build on recent efforts to reduce risks associated with natural hazards and improve resilience of essential facilities and systems, aiming to foster a collaborative environment in which government, industry, and the American people can better understand and prepare for the effects of space weather. The Nation must continue to leverage existing public and private networks of expertise and capabilities and pursue targeted enhancements to improve the ability to manage risks associated with space weather. This book outlines objectives for enhancing the Nation''s space-weather readiness in three key areas: national preparedness, forecasting, and understanding. It also describes the study process, the study requirements and their relevance and importance, an assessment and accounting of current and planned space weather observing systems used or to be used for operations, an analysis of gaps between the observing systems'' capabilities and their ability to meet documented requirements, and a summary of key findings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEver wondered what space can do for you? The next great leap forward in human innovation is here. Introducing . . . The Orbital Age. And it's all happening in low-Earth orbit (LEO) a mere 250 miles above Earth's surface-roughly the distance between Boston and New York.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisConsiderable prospecting has been done in outer space to find natural resources and mineral deposits that can be excavated. Commercial space travel and tourism have been found technically feasible and economically viable. So is the enthusiasm for demographic migration to celestial bodies. Governments are not inclined to invest in commercial development and allied ventures. So, private players are ready, having harnessed technology and mustered funds and enough guts to take risks. Thus, the commercial scene in outer space activities is brimming with anticipation.The challenge is legal. Space law brooks no sovereignty on celestial bodies; private appropriation of celestial resources is not permitted and profit accruals from commercial activities in outer space have to be shared for the benefit of all countries. Other incidental challenges are that the share of each country and the modalities of distribution are not yet in place. And there is no competent organization to ensure incumbent regulation and compliance.Humanity should not be made to wait endlessly to enjoy this bonanza from outer space. This book describes such potentialities, discusses legal implications and explores the way forward with practical suggestions for immediate action as well as long-term plans for implementation.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book combines, for the first time, the topics of radar polarimetry and interferometry. This combination was first developed in 1997 and has since become a major topic in radar sciences and their applications, in particular to space sciences. In its simplest form it concerns the study of interferograms formed by combining waves with different polarisations and their exploitation to infer important physical properties of the planetary surface being investigated. The book is written in three main sections. The first four chapters provide a detailed coverage of all major topics of polarimetry, including its basis in electromagnetic scattering theory, decomposition theorems, and a detailed analysis of the entropy/alpha approach. The next chapter offers a brief introduction to radar interferometry, before developing in three chapters the important new topic of polarimetric interferometry. In this way the book provides a complete treatment of the subject, suitable for those working in inTrade Review'Polarisation' is promising as a reference for quantitative specialists outside the radar community who want to understand what polarimetry has to offer their particular field. It is also a fine reference for students who need to learn and keep the notation straight for coding and experimental design. It is a worthwhile book to keep on your shelf if you ever want to relate a particular polarization-based, remotely sensed finding to your own research. * Physics Today *Table of Contents1. Polarised electromagnetic waves ; 2. Depolarisation and scattering entropy ; 3. Depolarisation in surface and volume scattering ; 4. Decomposition theorems ; 5. Introduction to radar interferometry ; 6. Polarimetric interferometry ; 7. The coherence of surface and volume scattering ; 8. Parameter estimation using polarimetric interferometry ; 9. Applications of polarimetry and interferometry ; Appendix 1: Introduction to matrix algebra ; Appendix 2: Unitary and rotation groups ; Appendix 3: Coherent stochastic signal analysis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe remarkable true story of America''s first women astronauts''Lifts the curtain on the moment when Neil Armstrong''s one small step for man expanded to encompass the talent, ambition and perseverance of America''s first female astronauts'' MARGOT LEE SHETTERLY, bestselling author of Hidden Figures''Strap yourself in for a thrilling ride with genuine American heroes - six women who proved you don''t need the right plumbing to have the right stuff!'' LYNN SHERR, author of Sally Ride: America''s First Woman in SpaceWhen NASA sent astronauts to the moon in the 1960s and 1970s the agency excluded women from the corps, arguing that only military test pilots - a group then made up exclusively of men - had the right stuff. It was an era in which women were steered away from jobs in science and deemed too fragile for space flight. Eventually, though, NASA relented and opened the application process to everyone, regardless

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisShe explains why NASA sometimes encouraged and sometimes thwarted the privatization of space projects and describes the agency's role in the rise of such new space industries as launch vehicles and communications satellites.Trade ReviewAs well as being an interesting read, NASA and the Space Industry demonstrates the effect that lack of clarity in space policy can have on the development of private sector space capability. Spaceflight A much-needed overview of a subject of great importance. -- Erik P. Rau Enterprise and SocietyTable of ContentsPrefaceChapter 1. Partners in SpaceChapter 2. LegaciesChapter 3. A Tale of Two CompaniesChapter 4. The Space ShuttleChapter 5. Space and the MarketplaceChapter 6. In the Wake of the ChallengerChapter 7. Trends in NASA-Industry RelationsNotesBibliographyIndex

Read more less