4 books on Orbital Launch Site [PDF]

August 03, 2024

Books on Orbital Launch Sites play a pivotal role in providing invaluable insights and knowledge for startups venturing into the realm of space exploration. These books encompass a wide array of topics, ranging from the technical intricacies of rocket engineering to the logistical challenges of space missions. They serve as comprehensive guides that offer a deep understanding of the principles governing orbital launch sites, covering aspects such as launch vehicle design, propulsion systems, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance. By delving into these resources, startups can gain a solid foundation in the complex and dynamic field of space launch operations.

1. Safety Design for Space Operations
2013 by Firooz Allahdadi, Isabelle Rongier, Paul Wilde



Endorsed by the International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS) and featuring insights from leading experts in the field, "Safety Design for Space Operations" is a comprehensive guide providing practical how-to guidance and a knowledge base crucial for ensuring effective launch-site and operations safety in accordance with current regulations. Consolidating essential information on space operations safety design, the book covers topics such as best design practices for spaceport facilities, advanced analysis methods for assessing launch and re-entry debris fall-out risk, and the implementation of safe operation procedures, including on-orbit space traffic management. Addressing safety considerations for the general public, the environment, personnel, and asset protection, the book is a valuable reference for engineers and technical managers in aerospace, high technology companies, space agencies, spaceport operators, satellite operators, and consulting firms. It is fully endorsed by IAASS and features contributions from experts at NASA, the European Space Agency (EASA), the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and other authoritative sources. The focus spans both manned and unmanned missions, encompassing the launch of probes and commercial satellites.
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2. SpaceX: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality
2013 by Erik Seedhouse



Providing the inaugural account of the most triumphant venture in commercial spaceflight, "SpaceX: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality" chronicles the remarkable engineering feats and human accomplishments that have propelled SpaceX to the forefront of the launch industry, positioning it as the prime candidate for human transportation to Mars. Since its establishment in 2002, SpaceX has aimed to revolutionize space launch dynamics by developing a family of launch vehicles with the potential to dramatically reduce costs and enhance space access reliability. With the growing demand for governmental, private, and commercial space transport, this innovative model is set to reignite humanity's pursuit of space exploration and development. Founded by Elon Musk, the mind behind PayPal and Zip2 Corporation, SpaceX has not only crafted two cutting-edge launch vehicles but has also secured COTS funding from NASA for demonstrating cargo delivery and return to the ISS. The book delves into how SpaceX's philosophy, centered on simplicity, low-cost strategies, and unwavering reliability, has successfully integrated these principles. By streamlining internal management, minimizing external subcontractors, and maintaining extensive in-house manufacturing, SpaceX has achieved cost reduction, accelerated decision-making, quality control, and seamless collaboration between design and manufacturing teams.
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3. A History of the Kennedy Space Center
2007 by Kenneth Lipartito, Orville R Butler



This comprehensive history of the Kennedy Space Center, NASA's renowned launch facility in Cape Canaveral, Florida, unveils the often-overlooked but crucial work that transpires prior to the ignition of the rocket. Despite the iconic presence of the Vehicle Assembly Building and launch pads drawing millions of visitors annually, few are privy to the intricate processes unfolding behind the scenes. Drawing on extensive access to sources such as the KSC archives, NASA centers, National Archives, and interviews, Lipartito and Butler delve into the evolution of spacecraft preparation, testing, and launch technologies over the past 45 years. Covering milestones like the Mercury and Gemini missions, Apollo lunar program, Space Shuttle, scientific and robotic missions, and the International Space Station, the narrative also addresses the tragic incidents of Challenger and Columbia. The authors illuminate the distinctive culture of KSC, emphasizing that the groundwork laid by its personnel is essential for NASA's major projects, including the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Challenging the notion that successful innovation stems solely from design, Lipartito and Butler argue that real-world experience, particularly the "operational knowledge" honed through ground operations, plays a pivotal role in differentiating between failed projects and those that remain within budget, yielding consistent results.
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4. Streamlining Space Launch Range Safety
2000 by National Research Council, Commission on Engineering and Technical Systems, Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board, Committee on Space Launch Range Safety



The landscape of the U.S. space program is undergoing a rapid transformation, transitioning from government-driven launches to a surge in commercial launches. This shift is evident in both the Eastern Range (ER) at Cape Canaveral Air Station, Florida, and the Western Range (WR) at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. Commercial activities are on the rise, prompting the government to adopt commercial practices and procure space launch services from U.S. commercial companies in a competitive market. While the overarching goal remains to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable access to space, this report explores the potential for enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of range safety processes without compromising public safety. With a flawless safety record over the 50-year history of space launches, the report offers six key recommendations covering risk management, Africa gates, roles and responsibilities, range safety documentation (EWR 127-1), global positioning system (GPS) receiver tracking systems, and risk standards for aircraft and ships.
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