Elements of Spacecraft Design

By John R. Wertz

Elements of Spacecraft Design is a foundational engineering text that provides a comprehensive, systems-level introduction to spacecraft design. Published by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) as part of the AIAA Education Series, this authoritative work integrates mission objectives, subsystem design, and systems engineering principles into a unified design framework.

Widely adopted in aerospace engineering programs and professional training, the book emphasizes practical design trade-offs, mass and power budgeting, reliability, and lifecycle considerations. It serves as an essential bridge between theory and real-world spacecraft development.

What This Book Does

This book equips students and engineers with a structured approach to spacecraft design, covering mission analysis, subsystem integration, and system-level decision-making.

Key Features

• System-level approach to spacecraft design
• Coverage of all major spacecraft subsystems
• Emphasis on engineering trade-offs and constraints
• Practical guidance on mass, power, and reliability
• Widely used in aerospace engineering education

Who Should Use This Book?

• Aerospace engineering students
• Space systems and spacecraft engineers
• Mission designers and systems engineers
• Researchers in space technology
• Academic and institutional libraries

Why It’s Essential

• Classic reference in spacecraft systems design
• Balances theory with practical engineering insight
• Supports conceptual and preliminary design phases
• Trusted worldwide in aerospace education

A foundational guide to spacecraft systems design and engineering.
Order today from BooksGoat and build strong spacecraft design fundamentals.

Product Details

• ISBN-13: 9781563475245
• Author: John R. Wertz
• Publisher: AIAA
• Series: AIAA Education Series
• Format: Hardcover
• Condition: New
• Availability: In Stock
• Price: $— (Free Shipping)

Table of Contents (Highlights)

• Mission Objectives and Requirements
• Spacecraft System Architecture
• Power, Thermal, and Structural Design
• Attitude Determination and Control
• Communications and Data Handling
• Reliability and Lifecycle Considerations

FAQs

• Is this suitable for students?
  Yes. It is widely used in undergraduate and graduate aerospace engineering courses.
• Does it cover real-world design considerations?
  Yes. It emphasizes practical trade-offs and system integration.
• Is this a systems engineering text?
  Yes. It focuses on spacecraft systems-level design.