Satellites are used increasingly in telecommunications, scientific research, surveillance, and meteorology, and these satellites rely heavily on the effectiveness of complex onboard control systems. This 1997 book explains the basic theory of spacecraft dynamics and control and the practical aspects of controlling a satellite. The emphasis throughout is on analyzing and solving real-world engineering problems. For example, the author discusses orbital and rotational dynamics of spacecraft under a variety of environmental conditions, along with the realistic constraints imposed by available hardware. Among the topics covered are orbital dynamics, attitude dynamics, gravity gradient stabilization, single and dual spin stabilization, attitude maneuvers, attitude stabilization, and structural dynamics and liquid sloshing.

"This reviewer strongly recommends this back-to-basics book on spacecraft dynamics and control to the engineering libraries and to those entering aerospace engineering schools and aerospace engineering practice. Again, the author successfully achieved his stated goal of bringing practical engineering reality into early aerospace education and it makes his book, Spacecraft Dynamics and Control well worth reading and keeping as a unique reference." Applied Mechanics Reviews

"One especially useful feature of the book is the extensive use of specific examples illustrating the various topics...I am confident that anyone working in the field of spacecraft dynamics will find plenty of useful material in this book. The book will also be useful as a textbook for a one- or two-semester course at the senior or first-year graduate student level." Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets