Introduction to Rocket Science and Engineering, Second Edition, presents the history and basics of rocket science, and examines design, experimentation, testing, and applications. Exploring how rockets work, the book covers the concepts of thrust, momentum, impulse, and the rocket equation, along with the rocket engine, its components, and the physics involved in the generation of the propulsive force. The text also presents several different types of rocket engines and discusses the testing of rocket components, subsystems, systems, and complete products. The final chapter stresses the importance for rocket scientists and engineers to creatively deal with the complexities of rocketry.
- Presents a unique perspective on the overall process of performing rocket science and becoming a rocket scientist starting at basic levels
- Elucidates the general rules and basic physics behind the design of a rocket engine
- Covers aspects of orbital mechanics, rocket propulsion, rocket design, and rocket engineering
- Discusses the history of rocket science from ancient times to the modern era
- Includes expanded coverage of thermodynamics and propulsion in the new edition