Re-entry Systems

This book explains and describes re-entry systems for both the Earth and other planets. It provides sufficient information for readers to perform entry mission analysis for different bodies in the Solar System. Not only does it discuss re-entry flight mechanics, but also addresses relevant subsystems and fields, enabling readers to put the information into perspective.

The book begins with a complete description of planetary environments, including atmosphere, gravity fields and the shape of the primary body. After a detailed discussion of planar flight mechanics, it then moves on to discuss guidance, navigation, and control, entry, descent, and landing systems, as well as thermal protection systems. It uses examples throughout the text, enabling the theory to be linked to practical applications.

Ideal for those wanting an updated, thorough discussion of re-entry systems, this book is suitable for students and researchers.

Dr. Erwin Mooij received his MSc and PhD degrees in Aerospace Engineering in 1991 and 1998, respectively, from Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands. From 1995 until mid-2007, he worked for Dutch Space in the Netherlands (currently:Airbus Netherlands B.V.), on re-entry systems and (real-time) simulator development. Currently, he is an associate professor in the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Delft University of Technology. His research interests include re-entry systems, trajectory optimisation, guidance and control system design, and design methods and data-analysis techniques. He is an Associate Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and a member of the AIAA GNC Technical Committee.