Understanding Space

the long version

The study of astronautics and space missions can appear difficult at times, but our goal with Understanding Space 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 the reader 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.