Spacefaring by Albert Harrison, University of California Press, 拢18.50, ISBN 0520224531
I LIKE to think I know a reasonable amount about the physics, maths and mechanics of space flight. What I know considerably less about is the psychological side of space, which is why I found Albert Harrison鈥檚 Spacefaring fascinating.
In the pioneering years of space, a test-pilot background was almost essential. Nowadays, a science background is more likely to get you onto a shuttle flight or to the International Space Station. Increasingly, experimenters will have a say in who takes responsibility for complex payloads, particularly servicing telescopes in orbit, so opportunities for us scientists are growing.
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NASA鈥檚 figures suggest there is about a 1 in 200 chance of success for those who bother to apply. If you are thinking about being one of the 4000 or so who will respond to NASA鈥檚 next ad then Spacefaring is essential reading matter.
Out-and-out scientists and engineers may be a little to frustrated by Harrison鈥檚 failure to give full references. Nevertheless, this is a book that could broaden your horizons in the widest possible sense.
