Space Technology

Here is a ready-reference guide for the nonspecialist with current information about developments in space technology as well as the present and future social, political, and technical impact of those developments on everyday life. It includes a history of the evolution of space technology; a discussion of applications; a chronology of major developments; profiles of prominent people and institutions; explanations of key principles; a discussion of the major impacts and implications of space technology; an examination of major issues surrounding the use of such technology; and predictions for future advances. Also offered are a glossary, a list of key associations, a list of print and electronic information resources, 40 illustrations, and an index. Space Technology, the first volume in the Sourcebooks in Modern Technology Series, is a ready-reference guide that provides nonspecialist users with current information about important developments in space technology and about the social, political, and technical impact of those developments on everyday life-now and in the future. The book includes a detailed history of the evolution of space technology; a discussion of both civilian and military applications of such technology; a chronology of major developments and discoveries; profiles of prominent scientists, politicians, popularizers, and institutions; explanations of key principles; discussion of the major impacts and implications of space technology; an examination of major issues surrounding the use of such technology; and predictions for possible future advances. Space Technology also offers a glossary of terms, a list of key associations, a list of print and electronic information resources, 40 illustrations, and an index.