Utilization of space, what for? This book attempts to answer this question With this volume we intend to provide a single reference for the broad field of space utilization. Of all the books we know, this is the first to cover all aspects of scientific and application oriented activities in space, even though with limits. We have attempted to document the current state of the art and open at the same time a perspective towards the future. We also want to bridge the gap between the many popular books dealing with space, and academic te- books on specific research fields in space science,...

The Laboratory and Marketplace. This book describes the latest developments in spaceflight and looks toward humanitys future beyond earth. Over 400 vivid color photos and illustrations present spaceflights past, present, and future. Complex scientific and technical aspects of the worlds space programs are explained in understandable terms. Current research and trends, along with new applications, are discussed.

t~icrogravity research, a new field originating from the accessibility of space, has reached the age of adolescence. An impressive set of results has emerged from the fi rst Space 1 ab fl i ght, whi ch by now has been fully evaluated. In view of this and the wealth of information available from other space experiments, ground based research, and short-term microgra- vity experiments in ai rp 1 anes, rockets or fall towers, it was felt that the time was ripe for a comprehensive review of the field. The initiative of the US to build a permanent station in space, which was soon followed by a...