Twenty years since the first edition was published in German, and just over fifty years since the launch of the Earth's first ever artificial satellite Sputnik 1, this third edition of the "Handbook of Space Technology" presents in full color a detailed insight into the fascinating world of space for the first time in English. Written by more than 70 leading experts from universities, research institutions, and the space industry, this comprehensive handbook describes the processes and methodologies behind the development, construction, operation and utilization of space systems, presenting the profound changes that have occurred in recent years in the engineering, materials, processes and even politics associated with space technologies and utilization. The individual chapters are self-contained, enabling the reader to gain a quick and reliable overview of a selected field; an extensive reference and keyword list helps those who wish to deepen their understanding of individual topics. Featuring superb, full color illustrations and photography throughout, this interdisciplinary reference contains practical, hands-on engineering and planning information that will be invaluable to those on a career path within space technology, or simply for those of us who'd like to know more about this fascinating industry.