Designed between 1969 and 1972 and first flown into space in 1981, the NASA Shuttle will have flown almost 140 missions by the time it is retired in 2010. David Baker describes the origin of the reusable launch vehicle concept during the 1960s, its evolution into a viable flying machine in the early 1970s, and its subsequent design, engineering, construction and operation. The Shuttle's internal layout and systems are explained, including the operation of life support, electrical power production, cooling, propulsion, flight control, communications, landing and avionics systems. 'an astrogeek's insider dream' www.sciencebase.com

About the Author

David Baker joined the US space programme during the Apollo years and later worked on the development of NASA's Shuttle. He has written widely on spaceflight technology and is editor of Aviation News. He lives in Kent.

Reviews

'an astrogeek's insider dream' www.sciencebase.com

'detailed insight...wonderful...An inspiring read.' Spaceflight

'a must-have item' BBC Sky At Night Magazine

Book Information
ISBN 9781844258666
Author David Baker
Format Hardback
Page Count 200
Imprint J H Haynes & Co Ltd
Publisher Haynes Publishing Group
Weight(grams) 865g
Dimensions(mm) 270mm * 210mm * 16mm