Apollo in Perspective: Spaceflight Then and Now by Jonathan Allday

From the Publisher

Apollo in Perspective: Spaceflight Then and Now takes a retrospective look at the Apollo space program and the technology that was used to land a man on the Moon. Using simple illustrations and school-level mathematics, Jonathan Allday explains the basic physics and technology of spaceflight and conveys the huge technological strides that were made and the dedication of the people working on the program.

Physics topics covered include the laws of motion, rocketry, how to maneuver in orbit, and more. Informal and engaging, the book also discusses the designs of the Apollo Command, Service and Lunar modules and how these changed as the plans for the manned mission evolved. Guidance systems, computers, and engines all had to be developed for the first time. With Apollo as background, the book proceeds to look at the space shuttle, the technology being developed for its replacement, the International Space Station, and the possibilities for a manned Mars mission. The book concludes with an exploration of the far future, including Mars colonies and journeys to other stars.

Booknews

While explaining the basic physics that was used to get the first astronauts to the Moon, Allday (physics, The King's School, Canterbury) reminds his readers of the huge technological leaps that were made in the process. The book covers the laws of motion, how to maneuver in orbit, and futuristic notions such as warp drive and laser propulsion. B&w photos and schematics are used to illustrate many of the points, and the language is simple and clear, using only school level mathematics. The book uses Apollo as a jumping off point and then explores the space shuttle, the newest space flight technology, the International Space Station, and the future of space flight, including Mars colonies. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Product Details

• Table of Contents

Table of Contents