Out of This World (Library of Flight) [Hardcover]

A. Scott Howe (Editor), Brent Sherwood (Editor)

Book Description

Series: Library of Flight | Publication Date: September 30, 2009

This collaborative book compiles thirty chapters on the theory and practice of designing and building inhabited environments in outer space. Given the highly visual nature of architecture, the book is rich in graphics including diagrams, design drawings, digital renderings, and photographs of models and of executed and operational designs. Written by the global network of practicing space architects, the book introduces a wealth of ideas and images explaining how humans live in space now, and how they may do so in the near and distant future. It describes the governing constraints of the hostile space environment, outlines key issues involved in designing orbital and planet-surface architecture, surveys the most advanced space architecture of today, and proposes far-ranging designs for an inspiring future. It also addresses earth-based space architecture: space analogue and mission support facilities, and terrestrial uses of space technology. In addition to surveying the range of space architecture design, from sleeping quarters to live-in rovers to moon bases and space cities, the book provides a valuable archival reference for professionals. Space enthusiasts, architects, aerospace engineers, and students will find it a fascinating read.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

A. Scott Howe, a licensed architect, is a senior systems engineer with the exploration systems concepts group, mission systems concepts section, at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He earned Ph.D.s in industrial and manufacturing systems engineering from Hong Kong University and in architecture from the University of Michigan School of Architecture and Urban Planning, an M.S. from the University of Michigan School of Architecture, a Master of Architecture from the University of Utah Graduate School of Architecture, and a B.S. from the University of Utah.

Brent Sherwood, a space architect living in the Los Angeles area, manages strategic planning and project formulation at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He earned an M.S. in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland, after a Master of Architecture from the Yale School of Architecture, and a B.A. from Yale University. He writes and speaks in fields related to the human settlement of space.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 400 pages
• Publisher: AIAA (American Inst of Aeronautics & Astronautics) (September 30, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1563479826
• ISBN-13: 978-1563479823
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.7 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,441,865 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding selection of current and future space-based projects, March 17, 2011

By 

Mountain Man (Pasadena, CA, USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Out of This World (Library of Flight) (Hardcover)

I've just finished reading this book, and was impressed with the level of detail that was provided. The book was not written as speculative (ie; science fiction) but as possible designs for space, moon and planetary facilities. It's obvious that considerable thought was given to the various structures, environmental support systems, communications, crew comfort, power generation, waste handling and disposal and a myriad of other areas. The photos and renderings were helpful in supporting the text, and, while not overly large, didn't detract from the message. If I'd wanted speculative future designs, I'd have opened up a Syd Mead book!

I'm an Architect by training and have always had an interest in astronomy-this book expanded my knowledge in both areas.