The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Space
Missions, Applications and Exploration

The definitive reference source on space applications, missions and exploration: with unique breadth, depth and presentation.

Fernand Verger (Author), Isabelle Sourbès-Verger (Author), Raymond Ghirardi (Author), Xavier Pasco (Contributions by), John M. Logsdon (Foreword by), Stephen Lyle (Translated by), Paul Reilly (Translated by)

9780521773003, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 21 August 2003

428 pages, 10 b/w illus. 15 tables
28.3 x 23 x 3 cm, 1.796 kg

'… an unusual but worthwhile addition to the reference shelves for anyone interested in the development and evolution of humanity's endeavour to explore and conquer near-earth space.' The Observatory

Since the launch of Sputnik in 1957, over 8000 satellites and spacecraft have been launched from over 30 countries, costing hundreds of billions of dollars. Over 350 people have made the incredible journey beyond our atmosphere and we all benefit in countless ways from the use of space. This unique Encyclopedia aims to give a global perspective of our occupation and use of space, whether scientific, industrial, commercial, technical or military. After setting the stage by describing the space environment, orbits and ground tracks, launchers and launch sites, the authors go on to discuss the main space applications (telecommunications, navigation and Earth observation, military), plus science missions, planetary exploration and space stations. The wealth of full-colour illustrations make all the information highly accessible, resulting in an invaluable source for everyone interested in our use of space, and the perfect reference book for those working in, or studying, the space arena.

Foreword
Preface
List of figures
1. The environment of outer space
2. Orbits
3. Ground tracks
4. The occupation of space
5. Launchers and launch sites
6. Political and economic aspects
7. Near-Earth science missions
8. Exploration beyond geocentric orbit
9. Earth observation
10. Telecommunications
11. Military applications
12. Man in space
Bibliography
Internet sites
Index.

Subject Areas: Astronomy, space & time [PG]