Principles of Space Instrument Design
Principles of Space Instrument Design
J. A. Bowles, University College London
T. J. Patrick, University College London
C. V. Goodall, University of Birmingham
This book provides an informative account of the design of instruments used in rockets and spacecraft. The volume begins with a chapter introducing the basic principles of designing for the space environment. Following chapters discuss mechanical, structural, thermal and electronic design including the problems that are frequently encountered in the testing and verification of spacecraft subsystems. Important topics are described, including stress analysis, multilayer insulation, two-dimensional sensor systems, mechanisms, the structure of space optics, and project management and control. A final chapter looks towards future developments of space instrument design and addresses issues arising from financial constraints. The book contains lists of symbols, acronyms and units and a comprehensive reference list. Worked examples are found throughout the text. This volume is suitable for researchers and engineers in spacecraft and space instrument design. It will also be valuable to graduate students of physics, space science, spacecraft engineering and astronautics.
- Contains many examples with full solutions
- The first comprehensive account of designing for a spacecraft subsystem. Includes introductory material
- Cruise is very well known internationally in both engineering and space communities
Reviews & endorsements
'In this book, four authors with extensive experience of space instrumentation provide an overview of the field and practical advice on how to build space instruments … [contains] a level of practical detail not often seen in books on spacecraft engineering and is most welcome … In summary, this is an excellent book covering the field in depth and includes extensive practical advice which can only come from those with many years of hand-on experience.' Colin R. McInnes, The Times Higher Education Supplement
'… the book does provide a valuable contribution to the literature, principally for the experimental scientist, working within the broad remit of space physics, whose background in engineering is limited. The book fills a long outstanding omission from the available literature.' Professor J. Stark, Het Ingenieursblad
'… a very concise and complete overview … a very helpful guide during the early stages of the design but also the more experienced reader will find the sections outside his/her field of competence very instructive.' Space Research Organisation of the Netherlands
Product details
No date availablePaperback
9780521025942
396 pages
244 × 169 × 21 mm
0.635kg
232 b/w illus. 18 tables
Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Designing for space
- 2. Mechanical design
- 3. Thermal design
- 4. Electronics
- 5. Mechanism design and actuation
- 6. Space optics technology
- 7. Project management and control
- 8. Epilogue: space instruments and small satellites
- Appendices
- Notes
- References and bibliography
- Index.
