Magnificent Desolation: The Long Journey Home from the Moon


Buzz Aldrin - 2009
    The event remains one of mankind’s greatest achievements and was witnessed by the largest worldwide television audience in history. In the years since, millions more have had their Earth-centric perspective unalterably changed by the iconic photograph of Aldrin standing on the surface of the moon, the blackness of space behind him and his fellow explorer and the Eagle reflected in his visor. Describing the alien world he was walking upon, he uttered the words “magnificent desolation.” And as the astronauts later sat in the Eagle, waiting to begin their journey back home, knowing that they were doomed unless every system and part on board worked flawlessly, it was Aldrin who responded to Mission Control’s clearance to take off with the quip, “Roger. Understand. We’re number one on the runway.”The flight of Apollo 11 made Aldrin one of the most famous persons on our planet, yet few people know the rest of this true American hero’s story. In Magnificent Desolation, Aldrin not only gives us a harrowing first-person account of the lunar landing that came within seconds of failure and the ultimate insider’s view of life as one of the superstars of America’s space program, he also opens up with remarkable candor about his more personal trials–and eventual triumphs–back on Earth. From the glory of being part of the mission that fulfilled President Kennedy’s challenge to reach the moon before the decade was out, Aldrin returned home to an Air Force career stripped of purpose or direction, other than as a public relations tool that NASA put to relentless use in a seemingly nonstop world tour. The twin demons of depression and alcoholism emerged–the first of which Aldrin confronted early and publicly, and the second of which he met with denial until it nearly killed him. He burned through two marriages, his Air Force career came to an inglorious end, and he found himself selling cars for a living when he wasn’t drunkenly wrecking them. Redemption came when he finally embraced sobriety, gained the love of a woman, Lois, who would become the great joy of his life, and dedicated himself to being a tireless advocate for the future of space exploration–not only as a scientific endeavor but also as a thriving commercial enterprise.These days Buzz Aldrin is enjoying life with an enthusiasm that reminds us how far it is possible for a person to travel, literally and figuratively. As an adventure story, a searing memoir of self-destruction and self-renewal, and as a visionary rallying cry to once again set our course for Mars and beyond, Magnificent Desolation is the thoroughly human story of a genuine hero.

Digital Apollo: Human and Machine in Spaceflight


David A. Mindell - 2008
    Neil Armstrong responded by switching off the automatic mode and taking direct control. He stopped monitoring the computer and began flying the spacecraft, relying on skill to land it and earning praise for a triumph of human over machine. In Digital Apollo, engineer-historian David Mindell takes this famous moment as a starting point for an exploration of the relationship between humans and computers in the Apollo program. In each of the six Apollo landings, the astronaut in command seized control from the computer and landed with his hand on the stick. Mindell recounts the story of astronauts' desire to control their spacecraft in parallel with the history of the Apollo Guidance Computer. From the early days of aviation through the birth of spaceflight, test pilots and astronauts sought to be more than "spam in a can" despite the automatic controls, digital computers, and software developed by engineers.Digital Apollo examines the design and execution of each of the six Apollo moon landings, drawing on transcripts and data telemetry from the flights, astronaut interviews, and NASA's extensive archives. Mindell's exploration of how human pilots and automated systems worked together to achieve the ultimate in flight -- a lunar landing -- traces and reframes the debate over the future of humans and automation in space. The results have implications for any venture in which human roles seem threatened by automated systems, whether it is the work at our desktops or the future of exploration.

Von Braun: Dreamer of Space, Engineer of War


Michael J. Neufeld - 2007
    space program. In this meticulously researched and vividly written life, Michael J. Neufeld gives us a man of profound moral complexities, glorified as a visionary and vilified as a war criminal, a man whose brilliance and charisma were coupled with an enormous and, some would say, blinding ambition.As one of the leading developers of rocket technology for the German army, von Braun yielded to pressure to join the Nazi Party in 1937 and reluctantly became an SS officer in 1940. During the war, he supervised work on the V-2s, which were assembled by starving slave laborers in a secret underground plant and then fired against London and Antwerp. Thousands of prisoners died—a fact he well knew and kept silent about for as long as possible.When the Allies overran Germany, von Braun and his team surrendered to the Americans. The U.S. Army immediately recognized his skills and brought him and his colleagues to America to work on the development of guided missiles, in a covert operation that became known as Project Paperclip. He helped launch the first American satellite in 1958 and headed NASA’s launch-vehicle development for the Apollo Moon landing.Handsome and likable, von Braun dedicated himself to selling the American public on interplanetary travel and became a household name in the 1950s, appearing on Disney TV shows and writing for popular magazines. But he never fully escaped his past, and in later years he faced increasing questions as his wartime actions slowly came to light.Based on new sources, Von Braun is a brilliantly nuanced portrait of a man caught between morality and progress, between his dreams of the heavens and the earthbound realities of his life.

The Apollo Guidance Computer: Architecture And Operation (Springer Praxis Books / Space Exploration)


Frank O'Brien - 2010
    In the 1960s most computers filled an entire room, but the spacecraft's computer was required to be compact and low power. Although people today find it difficult to accept that it was possible to control a spacecraft using such a 'primitive' computer, it nevertheless had capabilities that are advanced even by today's standards.This is the first book to fully describe the Apollo guidance computer's architecture, instruction format and programs used by the astronauts. As a comprehensive account, it will span the disciplines of computer science, electrical and aerospace engineering. However, it will also be accessible to the 'space enthusiast'. In short, the intention is for this to be the definitive account of the Apollo guidance computer.Frank O'Brien's interest in the Apollo program began as a serious amateur historian. About 12 years ago, he began performing research and writing essays for the Apollo Lunar Surface Journal, and the Apollo Flight Journal. Much of this work centered on his primary interests, the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) and the Lunar Module. These Journals are generally considered the canonical online reference on the flights to the Moon. He was then asked to assist the curatorial staff in the creation of the Cradle of Aviation Museum, on Long Island, New York, where he helped prepare the Lunar Module simulator, a LM procedure trainer and an Apollo space suit for display. He regularly lectures on the Apollo computer and related topics to diverse groups, from NASA's computer engineering conferences, the IEEE/ACM, computer festivals and university student groups.

Amazon Echo: 2017 Edition - User Guide and Manual - Learn It Live It Love It


Dominic West - 2016
    It’s compatible with a vast array of other electronics and online platforms. It can answer questions, control smart devices, play music, and more. It responds to the names “Echo” and “Alexa”. What does this book offer? Amazon Echo: The Ultimate Guide To Amazon Echo – 2017 Edition explains how you can best use the Echo’s wealth of powerful features: Setting Up Your Echo for the First Time Interacting Verbally with Alexa Setting Up Pandora on Your Echo Connecting your Google Calendar to Your Echo Amazon Echo IFTTT Channel Advice Fun (and Sleepy time) Echo Activities for Kids! Making Echo Part of Your Fitness Routine and even Streamlining Your Business with Echo! Who is Alexa? Alexa is your cloud-based, voice-activated personal assistant. Unlike other digital assistants, she has a smooth, life-like voice and an incredible variety of skills. She’s your new best friend – in a box! When you download Amazon Echo: The Ultimate Guide To Amazon Echo – 2017 Edition, you’ll find out how to engage with Alexa and maximize your use of her powerful skills. As you use your Echo, Alexa adapts to your speech patterns, vocabulary, and personal preferences. You can even download and install the Alexa Skills Kit to install her on your other devices! You deserve this next step in functionality, convenience, and fun! Don’t Delay - get your copy of this incredible book TODAY! Scroll up and click the “Buy with One Click” button. Read this book for FREE on Kindle Unlimited – Download Now! You’ll be so glad you gained this valuable information!

A Ball, a Dog, and a Monkey: 1957 - The Space Race Begins


Michael D'Antonio - 2007
    scrambled to match the Soviets and President Eisenhower intervened to guarantee that the space programme would be run by civilians and not the military.

Amazing Stories of the Space Age


Rod Pyle - 2016
    The incredible projects described here were not merely flights of fancy dreamed up by space enthusiasts, but actual missions planned by leading aeronautical engineers. Some were designed but not built; others were built but not flown; and a few were flown to failure but little reported: A giant rocket that would use atomic bombs as propulsion (never mind the fallout), military bases on the moon that could target enemies on earth with nuclear weapons, a scheme to spray-paint the lenses of Soviet spy satellites in space, the rushed Soyuz 1 spacecraft that ended with the death of its pilot, the near-disaster of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the mysterious Russian space shuttle that flew only once and was then scrapped--these are just some of the unbelievable tales that Pyle has found in once top-secret documents as well as accounts that were simply lost for many decades. These stories, complimented by many rarely-seen photos and illustrations, tell of a time when nothing was too off-the-wall to be taken seriously, and the race to the moon and the threat from the Soviet Union trumped all other considerations. Readers will be fascinated, amused, and sometimes chilled.

Ignition!: An informal history of liquid rocket propellants


John Drury Clark - 1972
    A favorite of Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk, listeners will want to tune into this "really good book on rocket[s]," available for the first time in audio. Ignition! is the story of the search for a rocket propellant which could be trusted to take man into space. This search was a hazardous enterprise carried out by rival labs who worked against the known laws of nature, with no guarantee of success or safety. Acclaimed scientist and sci-fi author John Drury Clark writes with irreverent and eyewitness immediacy about the development of the explosive fuels strong enough to negate the relentless restraints of gravity. The resulting volume is as much a memoir as a work of history, sharing a behind-the-scenes view of an enterprise that eventually took men to the moon, missiles to the planets, and satellites to outer space. A classic work in the history of science, listeners will want to get their hands on this influential classic, available for the first time in decades.

Tata


Morgen Witzel - 2010
    1 Lakh/ below US$ 2500 car), is set to change our perception of India': on the threshold of becoming a truly global brand.*s oldest and most respected corporate brand. With a major international presence, in a variety of areas including steel, tea, chemicals, communications and software, Tata now stands 65th in the world brand valuation league. But what is the Tata brand all about? What are its values? How do people perceive it, in India and around the world? In this absorbing and informed book Morgen Witzel digs into the heart of the Tata enterprise, describes its origins, how Tata's reputation and image evolved, and how the group has worked to transform that image into a powerful and valuable brand. Tata: The Evolution of a Corporate Brand goes to the core of the Tata ethos to explore the unique relationship between the Tata group and the Indian people, a relationship that goes beyond the achievements of a successful business to its social contributions for its employees and the society at large. Finally it asks how that reputation will be perceived and understood as Tata moves into global markets. Whether you re an entrepreneur, a manager, a marketer, or an interested Tata loyalist this book will help you understand the durability of the brand and inspire you with the values it holds onto in the global economy.

Kindle Fire HDX & HD User's Guide Book: Unleash the Power of Your Tablet!


Shelby Johnson - 2012
    With the new tablet, I absolutely love its many standard features and capabilities, but have found there is so much more that can be done with this amazing gadget. I’ve learned a lot of great things you can do with a Kindle Fire HD and want to help others get more out of their Kindle Fire HDX and HD devices. I've developed a comprehensive guide book to help users along on their device, including tips and tricks to really unlock and unleash the possibilities with the tablet. Here’s just some of the great info you’ll find in this User’s Guide Book: - Getting to know the various settings of your Kindle Fire HDX or HD - Browsing your Kindle and carousel - How to store your favorite content items on the device - Setting up security options to safeguard your device - Setting up your e-mail, contacts and calendar info - Setting up and using wireless networks - How to print from your Kindle Fire HD - How to install the Dolphin Browser with Adobe Flash - How to install the Google Chrome browser on your tablet - Pairing your Kindle Fire HD with a compatible Bluetooth phone or computer - How to set-up FreeTime for your kids to use your Kindle with restrictions - How to listen to the radio on your tablet - How to use your tablet to make phone calls for free! - How to download YouTube videos to your Kindle Fire HD - How to take photos and videos with your Kindle Fire HD camera - How to sideload apps on your Kindle Fire HD - Some of the best apps you can get for your tablet - Suggested apps to take your tablet to the next level! You’ll learn all of the above and more in this book which features color screenshots straight from the Kindle and step-by-step instructions on the processes involved in unleashing more powerful features for your Kindle Fire HD! There's also helpful links throughout the guide to take you right to the apps and websites being discussed. In all, this is a must-have ebook to get for any Kindle Fire HD user who wants to take their device to the next level! Note: Many of the tips and how-to's covered in this guide will also apply to the previous generation of the Kindle Fire HD, released in 2012. Please note this book is for owners of the American version of the Kindle Fire HDX & Kindle Fire HD tablets sold as of October 2013 in the United States.

Amazon Echo: Master Your Amazon Echo; User Guide and Manual (Amazon Echo Updated 2017 User Guide)


Andrew McKinnon - 2015
    This revolutionary device: Is Easy to Access Has Excellent Voice Quality Provides Superior Voice Recognition Handles Many Privacy Concerns Has Frequent Software Upgrades Offers Natural-Sounding Voices Allows for Cloud Processing Has Solid, Dependable Hardware What can this book do for you? Amazon Echo: Master Your Amazon Echo; User Guide and Manual teaches you how to use Alexa, how this feature is designed, and how to set it up. You'll learn about: The Body The Blue Light How to Use the Microphones Using Sensors Remote Control Functions Essential Setup Tips You'll find out how to Navigate the Echo and its App, Use the Echo Pen, and Activate your Echo with Voice Command and the remote control. You'll learn to use Bluetooth and connect other home devices to your Echo - including music services! Let Amazon Echo: Master Your Amazon Echo; User Guide and Manual take you by the hand and turn you into an Amazon Echo expert! Download your copy TODAY!

Everything Electrical: How To Use All The Functions On Your Multimeter (Revised Edition 6/24/2017)


Vincent Keler - 2015
    Now in a new revised edition with new illustrations and explanation!! Here Is A Preview Of What You'll Learn... Chapter 1: Introduction To Multi-meters: Manual, Auto Ranging and Analog Chapter 2: Voltage DC & AC Chapter 3: Amperage DC & AC Chapter 4: Resistance, Continuity, Diode and Capacitance Function Chapter 5: Hz & Duty Cycle Chapter 6: Temperature Chapter 7: Graphing Multimeters and Uses Chapter 8: Multimeter Accuracy and Choosing the Right Meter Chapter 9: Miscellaneous Electrical Tips And Tricks &Much, much more! Download Your Copy Today! Now In A New REVISED EDITION Created From Customer Comments and Demands. Take Action And Learn How To Use A Multimeter Fast!! Read on your PC, Mac, smart phone, tablet or Kindle device. Last Revised 6/24/2017 Important Note When Purchasing My Books!! I am constantly updating and adding new content to all my books based off of customer comments & requests. To get the latest version after purchase please go to [Your Account] on the top right of the Amazon homepage. then click [Manage Your Content And Devices], then go to [Setting] and please turn ON your [Automatic Book Updates]. This will allow you to get the latest revised edition after the initial purchase for free . Thank you. (: Tags: Meters Electrical Electric Automotive Household Motorcycles Motorcycle Aviation Diagnosis Testing Circuit Voltmeter Multi-meter Amperage Ohmmeter Temperature Graphing Meters Diodes Capacitors Meter Accuracy Hertz Duty Cycle Tools Troubleshooting How to Diagnostics Beginner Electronics Industrial Circuit Voltmeter Multimeter Tools

Old-Time Farmhouse Cooking: Rural American Recipes & Farm Lore


Barbara Swell - 2003
    These recipes, stories, jokes, advice, farm lore, and illustrations were collected from a wide variety of American agricultural sources from the 1880s to the 1950s.

The Design and Engineering of Curiosity: How the Mars Rover Performs Its Job


Emily Lakdawalla - 2018
    It is a one-ton robot with two brains, seventeen cameras, six wheels, nuclear power, and a laser beam on its head. No one human understands how all of its systems and instruments work. This essential reference to the Curiosity mission explains the engineering behind every system on the rover, from its rocket-powered jetpack to its radioisotope thermoelectric generator to its fiendishly complex sample handling system. Its lavishly illustrated text explains how all the instruments work -- its cameras, spectrometers, sample-cooking oven, and weather station -- and describes the instruments' abilities and limitations. It tells you how the systems have functioned on Mars, and how scientists and engineers have worked around problems developed on a faraway planet: holey wheels and broken focus lasers. And it explains the grueling mission operations schedule that keeps the rover working day in and day out.

Dive Beneath the Sun


R. Cameron Cooke - 2016
     A secret cargo is headed for Japan. The Japanese High Command has entrusted it to a veteran destroyer captain - the best in the Imperial Navy - and he will stop at nothing to see that it reaches its final destination... Carrier-based dive bombers could not stop it, nor could the guerilla-commandos of the Philippine Islands. Now, the submarine Wolffish is the last ditch hope of the Allied Command. Still shaken by a recent tragedy, and desperately low on fuel, torpedoes, and morale, the war-weary submarine and her eighty-man crew must pull together to track down and destroy the cargo before it reaches Japan, and changes the course of the war...