Mankind beyond Earth: the history, science, and future of human space exploration

Short introduction to the science of space exploration -- Part one: Hindsight and foresight (1. Men and machines ; 2. A space lexicon ; 3. The explorers ; 4. Twentieth-century space ; 5. Back to the Moon) -- Part two: A home away from home (6. Living off the land ; 7. Round and round it goes ... where it stops. nobody knows ; 8. By force of gravity ; 9. Cosmic ray dilemma ; 10. Tiny bubbles) -- Part three: Where are we going? (11. Case for Mars ; 12. Big planets, dwarf planets, and small bodies ; 13. New stars, new planets).;"Seeking to reenergize Americans' passion for the space program, the value of further exploration of the Moon, and the importance of human beings on the final frontier, Claude A. Piantadosi presents a rich history of American space exploration and its major achievements. He emphasizes the importance of reclaiming national command of our manned program and continuing our unmanned space missions, and he stresses the many adventures that still await us in the unfolding universe. Acknowledging space exploration's practical and ..." --Publisher description.