Rocket Science for Haematologists (and Others)
- Paper number
IAC-08.E5.2.5
- Author
Dr. Ed Chester, CTAE, Spain
- Year
2008
- Abstract
It is apparent in contemporary society that the term ’rocket science’ connotes a tier of technical endeavour that has few equals (neurosurgery being a common, equally inappropriate alternative). The relationship between the general public and the space sector is clearly a function of geography in a broad sense: of location, of education, services and, overwhelmingly, of the media. The capacity of the space sector to influence, much less control, its relationship with the public is severely limited because there is simply no effective communication channel to establish a common basis for awareness. The fickle media appeal of space can be categorised as ‘back-slapping’ following profound success, criticism and budgetary outrage at profound failure, and ignorant budgetary outrage on behalf of some other ‘higher purpose’ (education, health, safe water, relief/aid and so on) – and thereby the vast majority of space-related activities, research, business, achievements, services go unnoticed and uncared for.
One constant in the public conscience seems to be the pre-occupation with the notion of ’rocket scientists’, despite the reality that the science of rocketry is very old, very simple and - if we neglect nonlinear aerodynamics (but retain lift and drag) - well within the grasp of school children. Rocket engineering however, and the applications of rocketry, the science and theory of control, and the tools we loft into orbit using rocket-powered vehicles, are considerably more suitable targets for praise, respect, awe, and the other typical irrational responses to a ’rocket scientist’.
This paper arises from the challenge of creating a short tutorial in what rocket science really is aimed at a highly technical audience. It discusses the nature of rocket science, and the use of that term in society. A part of the tutorial is given to highlight the simplicity in the principles of rocketry. Some suggestions are offered to assist the technical non-rocket-scientist in appreciating the range of activities undertaken by the space industry, all of which are considerably more useful, unquestionably more valuable to society, and far more challenging, than ’rocket science’.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.E5.2.5.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.