Editors Helvajian and Janson (senior scientists, The Aerospace Corporation) have enlisted the help of colleagues to deliver this textbook on small satellites, providing students and researchers with a thorough survey of developments over the 50 years since Sputnik was first launched. Contributors discuss the features, innovations and history of small satellites and discuss such developments as the role of AMSAT and CubeSat and coalition operationally responsive space. Small satellite programs from such entities as the Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Naval Postgraduate School and the Technical U. of Berlin are also described in depth. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)