Annotation Presents an introductory treatment of plume phenomenology as it relates to the development of space-based defense systems. Covers elementary principles of rocketry, basics of rocket-propellant combustion, gas dynamics of supersonic exhaust plumes, infrared radiation processes, and diagnostic measurement techniques. Material is written at a level intended to bridge the gap between the needs of space systems engineers and the knowledge of scientists involved in detailed studies of plume observables. Simmons is a consultant in the private sector, and has been a consultant to Air Force space-based defense programs. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com).

Annotation This new book deals with the phenomenology of rocket exhaust plumes as the targets of space-based surveillance systems. Topics include the physical and chemical processes in rocket engines and their exhaust plumes, particularly in regard to flow properties, gas dynamics, and radiative mechanisms that are responsible for the generation of emission in rocket exhaust plumes at infrared and other wavelengths. System designers in a number of defense-related areas will be able to put the information in this book to immediate use.