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.
• Superbly illustrated throughout with over 300 colour maps, graphs and schematics to help understand the complexity of space • Comprehensive, accurate and up-to-date, with web and print bibliography: an invaluable reference text • Contains detailed technical explanations and data, as well as discussions of political and economic aspects
Contents
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.
Reviews
‘This is an essential addition to any library for senior school age pupils.’ Gnomon
‘General and specialist readers alike will find The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Space an accessible introduction to space activities conducted by all countries since the mid-20th century. the volume … is a gold mine of facts both mainstream and obscure that provides efficient access to a wealth of fascinating details … will reward anyone interested in the history or contemporary profile of human activities in space.’ Science
‘… the perfect reference book for those working in or studying the space arena.’ Orion
‘… 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
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