Keys to Space : An Interdisciplinary Approach to Space Studies

by Houston, A.; Rycroft, Michael J.

• ISBN13: 9780070294387
• ISBN10: 0070294380
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1999-06-01
• Publisher: MCG

Summary

This text offers a balanced approach to the complexities of space, its many practical applications, and its relevance to human society. It surveys all aspects of space, in an interdisciplinary way, for the non-expert reader, and complements the many specialized textbooks available in thefield.

Table of Contents

List of Contributors

Preface

Part 1 - The Space Arena

1. Benefits and Brief History of Space Activities

1.1 Space in our Lives

1.2 Elements of a Space Mission

1.3 Entering Space

2. Space Policy

2.1 Rationales for Space Programs

2.2 Important Space Policy Issues

2.3 Space Organizations and International Cooperation

3. The Space Environment

3.1 From Atoms to Galaxies -- The Basics of Science

3.2 The Electromagnetic Spectrum

3.3 The Space Environment and its Effects on Spacecraft

4. Astrodynamics

4.1 Understanding Orbits

4.2 Maneuvering in Space and Interplanetary Travel

4.3 Entering the Atmosphere

Part II - Space Systems Design

5. Analysis and Design of Space Missions

5.1 Introduction to Space Mission Design

6. Payload and Spacecraft Design

6.1 Space Payload Design Process

6.2 Spacecraft Design Process

6.3 Space Architecture for Human Systems

Part III - Space Technologies

7. Rockets

7.1 Space Transportation Systems

7.2 Some Examples of Launch Systems

8. Spacecraft Subsystems

8.1 Power

8.2 Communications and Data Handling

8.3 Navigation, Guidance and Control

8.4 Propulsion

8.5 Environmental Control and Life Support

8.6 Structures and Thermal Control

9. Robotics

9.1 Space Robotics

10. Space Operations

10.1 Operating a Space Mission

Part IV - Space Business and Management

11. The Business of Space

11.1 Economic Rationale for Space Activities

11.2 Management of Space Projects

11.3 Business Structures and Planning

11.4 Financial Issues and Techniques

11.5 Costing of Space Projects

11.6 Trends in Space Markets

11.7 Risk Management

12. Space Law

12.1 Basic Principles of International Space Law

12.2 Legal Aspects of Space Applications

13. International Issues

13.1 Management of International Space Projects

13.2 Cultural Issues and International Space Project Management

Part V - Space Applications

14. Telecommunications and Navigation

14.1 Telecommunications Markets and their Future

14.2 The Space Segment

14.3 The Ground Segment

14.4 Global Navigation Satellite Systems

15. Earth Observations and Geomatics

15.1 Introduction to Remote Sensing

15.2 Digital Image Processing

15.3 Earth Systems Science and Geographic Information Systems

16. Space Resources and their Use

16.1 Space Resources and Manufacturing

16.2 Solar Power from Space

Part VI - Space Sciences

17. Space Physical Sciences

17.1 Our Universe

17.2 Stars: Their Birth, Evolution and Death

17.3 The Solar System

17.4 Origin and Evolution of the Solar System

17.5 Plasma Physics

17.6 Solar-Planetary Interactions

17.7 Microgravity Sciences

18. Space Life Sciences and Humans in Space

18.1 Space Biology

18.2 Introduction to Human Space Life Sciences

18.3 Response of Bone and Muscle Systems to Spaceflight

18.4 Response of Cardiovascular System to Spaceflight

18.5 Neuroscience

18.6 Socio - Psychological Issues of Spaceflight

Part VII - Space Social Sciences and Humanities

19. Space and Society

19.1 Origins of the Space Age

19.2 The Spaceflight Revolution

19.3 The Cosmicization of Humanity

19.4 Searching for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

20. Epilogue

20.1 Space and the Future of Humankind