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Elsevier

Books in Astronautics

  • Dynamics of Tethered Satellites and Space Elevators

    • 1st Edition
    • Arun K. Misra + 1 more
    • English
    Dynamics of Tethered Satellites and Space Elevators provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge of tethered space systems, including their potential applications, history, and a description of past and current space tether missions. This is followed by an in-depth investigation into various aspects of the dynamics and control of rigid and flexible single-tether space systems, tether propulsion, and multi-tether satellite systems. The use of tethers to remove space debris is discussed next alongside other sustainability-relat... considerations, making the content all the more relevant in view of the global pressures that stakeholders in the space sector currently face.An entire section of chapters on the dynamics of partial and full space elevators concludes the volume.

  • Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students

    • 5th Edition
    • Howard D. Curtis
    • English
    Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students, Fifth Edition is a key text for students of aerospace engineering. While this latest edition has been updated with new content and end-of-chapter problems, it retains its teach-by-example approach that emphasizes analytical procedures, computer-implemented algorithms, and the most comprehensive support package available, including fully worked solutions, PPT lecture slides, and animations of selected topics. Highly illustrated and fully supported with downloadable MATLAB algorithms for project and practical work, this book provides all the tools needed to fully understand the subject.

  • Advanced Space Propulsion

    Technologies, Missions, and Computer Modeling
    • 1st Edition
    • Michael Paluszek + 5 more
    • English
    Advanced Space Propulsion: Technologies, Missions, and Computer Modeling includes coverage of all these topics in an integrated manner. The volume, written by a team of sector-specific R&D experts, touches upon fundamentals cardinal to the understanding of [i] Orbit theory and its implications for control, estimation, and optimization of trajectory and attitude, and [ii] How each mission is designed (depending primarily on the mass of the payload, but also on how far from Earth the launch vehicle needs to go), and then succeeds in consolidating them with software and computer applications for simulations and modeling. The book continues with a discussion on the complete gamut of in-space propulsion power sources and concludes with both human and robotic mission-related case studies and future implementation examples. The outcome is a carefully calibrated and self-contained resource that will prove to be invaluable for graduate and senior undergraduate students, researchers, scientists, and engineering professionals alike.

  • Photonic Laser Propulsion

    • 1st Edition
    • Young K. Bae
    • English
    Photonic Laser Propulsion offers a thrilling glimpse into the future of rapid mass space transportation by surveying one of the most significant breakthrough technologies to overcome the limitations of current propulsion systems based on conventional rocketry.Written by the pioneer of photonic laser propulsion (PLP), this book strives to establish a strong foundational understanding while exploring advanced theoretical concepts. Readers are guided through quantum mechanics, optical resonators, and radiation pressure that underpin this revolutionary thrust mechanism, to then be offered past experimental milestones and cutting-edge demonstrations that trace its evolution and validate its feasibility. A presentation of current application examples as well as long-term development pathways for interplanetary commutes and interstellar probes conclude the excursus, fostering curiosity and charting a course for further research exploration in this dynamic realm.Researchers both in academia and industry and a host of other technical audiences at all levels will think of this volume, which consolidates a growing body of knowledge surrounding PLP, as a key resource for their study or work to enable innovative space endeavors, including human civilization’s expansion within our solar system or interstellar exploration.

  • Hybrid Rocket Propulsion Design Handbook

    • 1st Edition
    • Ashley Chandler Karp + 1 more
    • English
    Hybrid Rocket Propulsion Design Handbook provides system scaling laws, design methodologies, and a summary of available test data, giving engineers all the tools they need to develop realistic hybrid system designs.Important supporting theory from chemistry, thermodynamics, and rocket propulsion is addressed, helping readers from a variety of backgrounds to understand this interdisciplinary subject. This book also suggests guidelines for standardized reporting of test data, in response to difficulties researchers have in working with results from different research institutes.

  • Electrostatic Dust Mitigation and Manipulation Techniques for Planetary Dust

    • 1st Edition
    • Nima Gharib + 2 more
    • English
    Electrostatic Dust Mitigation and Manipulation Techniques for Planetary Dust explains how to control and remove dust in space due to the presence of a vacuum, abrasiveness of dust particles and electrostatic charge on particles. The book introduces innovative technologies that use electrostatic and di-electrophoretic forces to remove and transport small particles away from surfaces. In addition, it discusses how to resolve thermal control problems and reduce lung inhalation and eye irritation problems. The book includes two abrasive wear test devices that were designed to study the rate of volume wear for different materials when subjected to lunar dust simulant of different size ranges. This will be an ideal resource for space system engineers, space exploration researchers, and advanced students and professionals in space engineering.

  • Modern Flexible Multi-Body Dynamics Modeling Methodology for Flapping Wing Vehicles

    • 1st Edition
    • Cornelia Altenbuchner + 1 more
    • English
    Modern Flexible Multi-Body Dynamics Modeling Methodology for Flapping Wing Vehicles presents research on the implementation of a flexible multi-body dynamic representation of a flapping wing ornithopter that considers aero-elasticity. This effort brings advances in the understanding of flapping wing flight physics and dynamics that ultimately leads to an improvement in the performance of such flight vehicles, thus reaching their high performance potential. In using this model, it is necessary to reduce body accelerations and forces of an ornithopter vehicle, as well as to improve the aerodynamic performance and enhance flight kinematics and forces which are the design optimization objectives. This book is a useful reference for postgraduates in mechanical engineering and related areas, as well as researchers in the field of multibody dynamics.

  • Automatic Control in Aerospace 1994 (Aerospace Control '94)

    • 1st Edition
    • D. Schaechter + 1 more
    • English
    An important, successful area for control systems development is that of state-of-the-art aeronautical and space related technologies. Leading researchers and practitioners within this field have been given the opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss results at the IFAC symposia on automatic control in aerospace. The key research papers presented at the latest in the series have been put together in this publication to provide a detailed assessment of present and future developments of these control system technologies.

  • Astronautics Year

    An International Astronautical and Military Space/Missile Review of 1964
    • 1st Edition
    • David Howard
    • English
    Astronautics Year: An International Astronautical and Military Space/Missile Review of 1964 documents in detail the international astronautical and military space/missile activities conducted in 1964. This book focuses on two major space achievements—RANGER 7 and VOSKHOD I. RANGER 7 was a spectacular achievement demonstrated by Jet Propulsion Laboratory, while VOSKHOD I was claimed as the biggest rocket in existence that was launched while carrying two retro-rocket systems. This compilation also provides brief notes on a number of space/missile projects and programs underway during 1964, such as the AADS-70, ADOBE, AIM-47A, and APOLLO. A table containing a fully comprehensive listing of all announced spacecraft launch attempts made during the same year are likewise described. This text is recommended for researchers and specialists concerned with aeronautics and aerospace research.

  • Gas Turbine Aero-Thermodynamics

    With Special Reference to Aircraft Propulsion
    • 1st Edition
    • F. Whittle
    • English
    For the first time simplified methods of dealing with gas turbine thermal cycles, and further theoretical innovations, have been embodied into a concise textbook. All the major aspects of the subject are covered in a comprehensive and lucid manner. Examples are included for greater clarity

  • Space and Humanity

    Selected Proceedings of the 39th International Astronautical Federation Congress, Bangalore, India, 8-15 October 1988
    • 1st Edition
    • L. G. Napolitano
    • English
    This volume contains a selection of 27 papers that are chiefly survey, state-of-the-art, review or programmatic in nature. The volume itself is structured in three parts: Part I, The System, that deals with Space Transportation, Space Stations and Platforms; Part II, Hard and Soft Technologies, that deals with Technology Applications, Astrodynamics, Space Power and Propulsion; Part III, The Utilization, that addresses the two main lines Space Exploration and Applications, including Earth Observation, Telecommunication and Space Education, Microgravity, Safety and Rescue.

  • Torques and Attitude Sensing in Earth Satellites

    • 1st Edition
    • S. Fred Singer
    • English
    Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Volume 7: Torques and Attitude Sensing in Earth Satellites focuses on the possible torques that can affect the angular momentum of an Earth satellite. This book provides an understanding of the environment in which a satellite operates. Organized into 16 chapters, this volume starts with an overview of the application of force-free motion to space programs. This text then discusses the torque effects of a gravitational field, particularly with its gradient. Other chapters consider a particular method of gravity-gradient stabilization that utilizes a passive device to damp librations and thereby attain a vertical orientation. This book discusses as well the effects of the geomagnetic field on the angular motion of a satellite. The reader is also introduced to the method of magnetic attitude control employed in the Tiros satellite. The final chapter deals with the problem of horizon sensing, which is important for satellites requiring Earth stabilization. Astrophysicists will find this book useful.

  • Energy Conversion for Space Power

    • 1st Edition
    • Nathan Snyder
    • English
    Progress in Astronautics and Rocketry, Volume 3: Energy Conversion for Space Power focuses on the use of dependable electric power sources on space vehicles. Composed of various literature, the book first discusses the physics of thermoelectricity, thermoelectric generator of materials, the use of semiconductors in thermoelectric conversion, and the use of high temperature thermoelectric materials for power generation. The text also presents experiments on the effect of irradiation on thermoelectric materials, thermoelectric elements in space power systems, and thermionics. The book then describes photovoltaic effect and conversion of solar energy; trends in silicon solar cell technology; the use of silicon solar cells in energy conversion; and how radiation affects solar cell power systems. The text notes the specifications of batteries if used in communications satellites; the use of positive-displacemen... engines and turbines on cryogenic power systems; and the characteristics of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generators in space power conversion. The book is a good source of information for readers and scientists wanting to explore the potential of energy conversion in space power technology.

  • Optimal Trajectories in Atmospheric Flight

    • 1st Edition
    • Nguyen Vinh
    • English
    Optimal Trajectories in Atmospheric Flight deals with the optimization of trajectories in atmospheric flight. The book begins with a simple treatment of functional optimization followed by a discussion of switching theory. It then presents the derivation of the general equations of motion along with the basic knowledge in aerodynamics and propulsion necessary for the analysis of atmospheric flight trajectories. It goes on to the study of optimal trajectories by providing the general properties of the optimal aerodynamic controls and the integrals of motion. This is followed by discussions of high subsonic and supersonic flight, and approximation techniques to reduce the order of the problem for a fast computation of the optimal trajectory. The final chapters present analyses of optimal reentry trajectories and orbital maneuvers. This book is intended as a reference text for scientists and engineers wanting to get into the subject of optimal trajectories in atmospheric flight. If used for teaching purposes, the book is written in a self-contained way so that a selective use of the material is at the discretion of the lecturer. The first 11 chapters are sufficient for a one-semester course with emphasis on optimal maneuvers of high performance aircraft.

  • Optimal Space Trajectories

    • 1st Edition
    • Jean-Pierre Marec
    • English
    Studies in Astronautics, Volume 1: Optimal Space Trajectories focuses on the concept of optimal transfer and the problem of optimal space trajectories. It examines the relative performances of the various propulsion systems (classical and electrical propulsions) and their optimization (optimal mass breakdown), along with parametric and functional optimizations and optimal transfers in an arbitrary, uniform, and central gravitational field. Organized into 13 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of optimal transfer and the modeling of propulsion systems. It then discusses the Hohmann transfer, the Hoelker and Silber bi-elliptical transfer, and the deficiencies of parametric optimization. The book explains the canonical transformation, optimization of the thrust law using the Maximum Principle, and optimal orbit corrections. The time-free orbital transfers and time-fixed orbital transfers and rendezvous are also discussed. Moreover, this volume explains the classical high-thrust and electric low-thrust propulsion systems and rendezvous between two planets. This book is written primarily for engineers who specialize in aerospace mechanics and want to pursue a career in the space industry or space research. It also introduces students to the different aspects of the problem of optimal space trajectories.

  • Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students

    • 2nd Edition
    • Howard D. Curtis
    • English
    Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students, Second Edition, provides an introduction to the basic concepts of space mechanics. These include vector kinematics in three dimensions; Newton’s laws of motion and gravitation; relative motion; the vector-based solution of the classical two-body problem; derivation of Kepler’s equations; orbits in three dimensions; preliminary orbit determination; and orbital maneuvers. The book also covers relative motion and the two-impulse rendezvous problem; interplanetary mission design using patched conics; rigid-body dynamics used to characterize the attitude of a space vehicle; satellite attitude dynamics; and the characteristics and design of multi-stage launch vehicles. Each chapter begins with an outline of key concepts and concludes with problems that are based on the material covered. This text is written for undergraduates who are studying orbital mechanics for the first time and have completed courses in physics, dynamics, and mathematics, including differential equations and applied linear algebra. Graduate students, researchers, and experienced practitioners will also find useful review materials in the book.

  • Non-Rocket Space Launch and Flight

    • 1st Edition
    • Alexander Bolonkin
    • English
    In recent years scientists have investigated a series of new methods for non-rocket space launch, which promise to revolutionize space launches and flight. Particularly in the current political climate new, cheaper, and more ‘fuel efficient’ methods are being investigated. Such new methods include the gas tube method, cable accelerators, tether launch systems, space elevators, solar and magnetic sails, circle launcher space keepers and more. The author of Non-Rocket Space Launch and Flight brings a vast amount of experience to the topic, having worked as a engineer, designer, project director and researcher at key institutes including NASA and the US Air Force.

  • Space Weather Study Using Multipoint Techniques

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 12
    • L.-H. Lyu
    • English
    Magnetic storms may cause damage to satellites, radiation hazard to astronauts, disruption of radio communications, and interruption of ground electric power lines. Space weather prediction becomes an important issue to be addressed in the twenty-first century. International Solar Terrestrial Program (ISTP) employs five satellites to probe the solar wind and magnetosphere, providing valuable information for space weather prediction. The Asia-Pacific region is becoming one of the economic centers in the world. The continuous drive for scientific and technological progress in parallel is evidenced by the establishment of many space research organizations in many countries of this area. In Taiwan, the National Space Program Office (NSPO) established her third satellite program -- COSMIC (Constellation Obsering Systems for Meteorology, Ionosphere and Climate), which is a science experiment to demonstrate the utility of atmospheric radio limb soundings from a constellation of six low-earth orbiting satellites in operational weather prediction, space weather monitoring, and climate monitoring and research.In order to provide a forum to discuss the many new results in this rapid-moving field and to forge international collaborations, a three-day COSPAR Colloquium on "Space Weather Study Using Multipoint Techniques" was held. This colloquium have provided a forum for experts from the international community to present new results on the timely topic "space weather".