The Cambridge Dictionary of Space Technology / Edition 2

by Mark Williamson

Overview

The Cambridge Dictionary of Space Technology is a comprehensive source of reference on the most important aspects of this fast-developing field, from basic concepts to advanced applications. With some 2,300 entries—700 more than the first edition, it lists fundamental terms that will remain in common usage for the foreseeable future and includes a selection of historical and highly specific entries to add context and depth. The Dictionary features entries on all the major areas relating to space technology, making this a reference of wide-ranging scope. While the emphasis is on defining the meaning of a word or phrase as it is used in the professional space community, each entry also contributes to a deeper understanding of the overall subject, both for the practicing specialist and interested layman. To assist the reader in research on a given topic, related entries are highlighted in the text and other important entries are cross-referenced. An additional key feature is a classified list of entries grouped under 13 subject headings. The Cambridge Dictionary of Space Technology will be indispensable to anyone with an interest in space activity. Mark Williamson is an independent space technology consultant working in the space industry and space insurance communities. A seasoned physicist and engineer, he has over 20 years of experience in satellite communications engineering, technical management, and space consultancy. Williamson has written about 250 published magazine and journal articles. He is also author of The Communications Satellite and editorial director of Earth Space Review magazine.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521660778
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	03/29/2001
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	474
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 1.06(d)

About the Author

Mark Williamson is an independent Space Technology Consultant advising the space industry and the space insurance community. A Chartered Physicist and Chartered Engineer, he has more than 20 years' experience in satellite communications engineering, technical management and space consultancy.

Table of Contents

Preface and user's guide; Acknowledgements; The dictionary; Classified list of dictionary entries: 1. Spacecraft technology; 2. Communications technology; 3. Propulsion technology; 4. Launch vehicle technology; 5. Space Shuttle; 6. Manned spaceflight; 7. Unmanned spacecraft; 8. Materials; 9. Propellants; 10. Orbits; 11. Physics and astronomy; 12. Space centres and organisations; 13. Miscellaneous.

Editorial Reviews

"Mark Williamson's The Cambridge Dictionary of Space Technology is an essential, indispensable, core addition to school, community, and professional reference libraries.... [It] is a seminal, basic, exhaustive, very highly recommended reference." The Bookwatch

"Williamson, an expert in space technology, writes descriptive, easily understandable definitions suitable for both specialists and general readers. Recommended for all libraries." CHOICE Nov 2001

"This dictionary is a comprehensive reference.... The extraordinary breadth of coverage ensures that there are entries on all major space technology subject areas. While the emphasis on each entry is on defining the meaning of the word or phrase, entries have been written with the intention of enhancing the understanding of the subject for a variety of users, ranging from the practicing specialist to the layperson to the student." Science Books and Films

From the Publisher