My Life in Space Exploration

This book tells the inside story of Germany's first contributions to space research by experiments with artificial plasma clouds in space. It is written by Gerhard Haerendel, a former director at the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, and describes his 60 adventurous years in space research. The narrative of exciting events covers 40 years of rocket and satellite work and how the goals set by a visionary astrophysicist led to one of Germany's first major contributions to space research by creating artificial comets in the solar wind. Haerendel's efforts also led to two further satellite programs, one in partnership with Sweden and one to explore the outer border of the magnetosphere.

Format: Hardback
Length: 227 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the captivating realm of Germany's pioneering endeavors in space research, unveiling the intricate details behind their groundbreaking experiments with artificial plasma clouds in space. In his autobiography, Gerhard Haerendel, a former director at the esteemed Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, takes readers on a thrilling journey through his remarkable 60-year career in space exploration. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of 40 years of rocket and satellite work, interwoven with accessible explanations of the physical phenomena and processes at play. The reader is also privy to the captivating story of how Haerendel's visionary astrophysicist goals ultimately paved the way for one of Germany's significant contributions to space research: the creation of artificial comets in the solar wind.

Haerendel's remarkable achievements extended beyond this groundbreaking endeavor, leading to the development of two additional satellite programs. The first, in collaboration with Sweden, aimed to study the awe-inspiring aurora borealis, while the second, a national German initiative, ventured to explore the enigmatic outer boundaries of the magnetosphere.

Furthermore, Haerendel's involvement in the evaluation and restructuring of eastern German Academy institutes following reunification adds an intriguing dimension to his remarkable story. This book is a treasure trove for all readers with a deep interest in space research and its rich history, offering a captivating blend of fascinating experiences, dramatic events, and even some spectacular failures related to rocket campaigns. Prepare to be transported into the world of space exploration and witness the remarkable contributions of Gerhard Haerendel and his team.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031102851
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022