NASA Space Shuttle Manual (Owners Workshop Manual)

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 2011. 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.

Includes over 250 photographs, technical diagrams and explanations. The internal layout and systems are explained in full including the operation of life support, electrical power production, cooling, propulsion, flight control, communications, landing and avionics. Other sections include the whole mission process from getting the Shuttle ready, launch and lift off to re-entry and landing. Life on board is also covered, showing how astronauts live and work with weightlessness.

Author: Dr David Baker
Hardcover, 160 Pages, color/ b&W photographs & diagrams
ISBN: 9780760340769, copyright 2011