Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

What a massive masterpiece! Thrilling, like the Shuttle itself. The author has written the Definitive record of the technical creation and development of one of America's greatest technological achievements. These volumes are so expensive one feels like one is making an investment when buying it, but no regrets on my part! Its worth it. Just make sure you have a sturdy book shelf for this heavy set of beautifully produced, heavily illustrated books. A wonderful addition to my library. Fantastic. My Highest Recommendation.

This is a One-stop information source for the US Shuttle Program. The first volume provides a tremendous amount of information and history on the development of the Shuttle. The second volume is loaded with detailed technical information and diagrams. While the third volume gives the history of all the flight missions. This set is worth the purchase price and more. I highly recommend this set to all space nerds...

A lavishly illustrated, impressively detailed history of the Space Transportation System from concept to museum. Destined to be the authoritative history. If you are interested in space flight, you want this.

Wonderful production quality and detail for novices and space geeks alike. Hours and hours of detail and enjoyment.

I don't think I can add anything else to the concise reviews associated with this book. All I have to add is that I am purchasing a second copy to put away as an investment! This work is one of those that we aviation and space book junkies either boast that we possess a cop you have or cringe every time we see a used copy available on a resale site for years to come, i.e. the Project Natter book by Gooden for I instance sold for $35 now $300 if you can find a copy or the even more rare English electric lightning two-volume set works regularly tops thousand dollars for the two volume set. My advice by a second copy of this book! I would hope that there is a follow on volume of this concise nature which would detail each mission to this granularity we truly live and the golden age of books as proven by my monthly Amazon book expenditures !!!

I doubt there will be a more complete history/reference of the Space Shuttle program than this three volume set. The orbiters, SRB's, the external tank, rescue ball, SLC-6, roll-out distances...its all here. Wow. Bravo Dennis Jenkins.

Fantastic set, high quality binding and presentation. Comprehensive in information, with many colour pictures and diagrams.

Incredible set. Highly recommend for the space enthusiast like me.

A gold mine of technical information, the author deserves a great deal of credit for amassing in book form the three volumes I was very pleased with my purchase and recommend it highly.

This book is a gem! Meticulously researched and jam packed full of detailed info and photos?

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

This is amazing! So much technical info and pictures any space nerd will geek out for WEEKS looking at this book set.

Excellent book for any Space Shuttle fan

Awesome information about the Space Shuttle program.

Dennis Jenkins does it again. A excellent ending to his other books on the space shuttle.

fantastic.

I have to hand it to Dennis R. Jenkins. It would have been pretty easy to write a couple paragraphs about the last 35 shuttle missions, maybe a few pages about Columbia, update the data tables, and shove out a "revised edition" of his classic Space Shuttle reference before the end of 2011. That book was a pretty impressively detailed and in-depth work, and I was genuinely scratching my head when I heard he'd be stretching it out to three volumes. The final result exceeds my expectations. What he's done here is to totally expand and revise that third edition, squeezing every last bit of information that could be crammed into a three-volume set. Virtually everything from the third edition has been incorporated, and so much more. This isn't just 300% more pretty pictures and diagrams; all of the new material is of substance. The good parts of the prior edition have been massively expanded upon, and the weaker parts have been shored up, polished, and are now just as in-depth as the rest. This set is completely up to date and reflects the post-Columbia reality, and the huge number of upgrades and safety improvements carried out in the last 10 years of the program. I've only read the first 100 pages and spent some time perusing all three volumes, but I feel like I can make a decent comparison with the third edition. I'm actually finding this edition to be an easier read; despite being three times longer, it flows much better and thankfully doesn't read like a data dump. Getting through it will take some perseverance, but I don't think I'll struggle too much. This review is a bit of a placeholder for now; I might replace it with a "real" review when I (finally!) finish reading all three books. Now, for some rambling thoughts: -The slipcase is very sturdy, features attractive graphics, and isn't so tight to make removing the books impossible. It also has gold ribbon pull, which I'm too dense to figure out how to use. Any engineers in the house? -The format and typeface are the same that were used in the third edition. I know some people have complained about the small font size, but I compared them side by side and they're the same. -While the third edition had two brief color sections, the majority of the photographs and artwork in this set are in color. The quality of the reproduction is pretty good, although most of the pictures are still rather small. This is no doubt the biggest visual improvement, along with the greater number of technical diagrams. -Many of the new diagrams are exquisitely detailed, but somewhat hard to study due to the size of the pages. Have a magnifying glass handy. -The first seven chapters of the third edition have been expanded into the first volume (Setting the Stage) of this set. There's substantially more material on lifting bodies, hypersonic research programs, the earliest proposals for an American manned spacecraft, the development of thermal protection systems, politics and budgeting problems, and so on and so forth. -The Shuttle Carrier Aircraft gets a whole lot of love this time around. Volume One features a photographic walkthrough of the aircraft, alternate payload concepts, and a detailed ferry flight log. -Quite a bit of material has been reshuffled in Volume Two (Technical Description). This volume now contains all the material on the development, certification, and testing of the ETs, SRBs, and SSMEs. The appendixes on the Shuttle Upgrade Program and stillborn concepts have been rolled into a single chapter, and the brief appendix on Vandenburg is now a separate chapter. -Chapter 13 features an enormous amount of material that was only touched upon, or not featured in the prior edition. The chapter covers Spacelab, Spacehab, logistics modules, upper stages, pressure suits, and the EMU, MMU, and SAFER. -Volume III (The Flight Campaign) corrects one of the most serious deficiencies of the third edition, that being the skimpy (one or two paragraph) coverage of individual missions. Now each flight receives a full page of coverage, accompanied by a page of color photographs, and a crew portrait, including some humorous gag photos. -The Challenger and Columbia disasters and the subsequent returns to flight are covered in much greater detail, each receiving its own 40 page chapter. -The safing of the orbiters and their retirement to museums is covered in some depth. The author was heavily involved in this process, and large number of his photographs are included in the final chapter. -One disappointment: there's no glossary, or a handy list of abbreviations. The Dyna-Soar themed spoof of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven" also seems to be missing. Manoman, this is one massive set! I can finally retire my beaten, delaminated, and tape-repaired copy of the third edition. I was a bit skeptical when I pre-ordered a signed set through Specialty Press, but I don't regret spending a penny of those $100. This is the kind of set that hardcore space geeks could spend a couple months reading cover to cover, and even more time processing all of the data in the tables, reading the photo captions, and studying all of the diagrams. It's totally self-indulgent but in the most wonderful way possible. All of the photos are from volume one because I had a hard time choosing only six pictures to represent the entire set.

I doubt the humble author of these books would agree with this statement – but these are the definitive Space Shuttle volumes. Lovingly illustrated, this three book set delves into the origins of the program (including space planes that didn't fly, but did contribute to the program's heritage), shuttle hardware development, how the orbiter/stack ultimately took shape, and, of course, the 135 missions. Those interested in the technical aspects of the program will find something interesting and new on every page. In addition, the Challenger and Columbia accidents are remembered and discussed in a thoughtful, incisive, tasteful manner. As a lifelong Shuttle enthusiast, I have most enjoyed reading (thus far – this is a huge set!) about programs such as the X-20 Dyna-Soar and how they contributed to the STS program, despite the fact that they didn't make it into space. Over time, one finds that the things that didn't happen are sometimes just as significant as the things that did happen. The "back stories" associated with missions also are exciting to recount. While nothing will ever replace the thrills of seeing Shuttle launches from KSC, these books will remind readers of these great days in spaceflight history, and what it took to get the crews and spacecraft there.

I proudly own all of the books by Dennis Jenkins on the Space Shuttle, and thought this set was going to be a routine update of past editions, with a lot of the familiar format that is so well done. But this set is truly an exponential, qualitative increase of the overall Shuttle history, with a wealth of additional excellent pictures, new text and a wonderful examination of every mission flown. The detail images are the best of the Shuttle I have ever seen in a single edition. I can say with certainty today that this work is THE defining one that any serious space enthusiast must have in their collection to understand and appreciate the entire Space Shuttle effort. It is obvious that Dennis put lots of time and hours into making this the best work on the topic ever created. It shall be the logical first choice any professional writer or historian will pull off the bookshelf first for access to factual data now and way into the foreseeable future. But for anyone who is a space enthusiast and just wants to have a quality review of the entire Space Shuttle Program on hand to enjoy and treasure, this set is the one to buy, with no hesitation!

Very good books. Lots of developmental information on the shuttle. Lots of the shuttles flights information. Besides these volumes I have his orgnial three books on the shuttle he has wrote over the years. These new collections just sums up the Space Transport Shuttle story.

With this, the fourth edition of Jenkin's work on the Space Shuttle, Everything that is desired is included. Want to know the serial numbers of the outboard port tire on STS-67? It's right there in a table. Furthermore, he presents the excellent narrative of the program from start to finish with a minimum of commentary (one counterpoint is you can tell where he thought OV-101 should have gone). Enthusiast

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

What a beautiful set! I was pleasantly surprised that there was so much more new material compared to the older volumes I own. I love the chapters on Shuttle related programs that could have been like the Vanderburgh launch site, the shuttle derived cargo carrier and Advanced SRBs. Also the 3rd volume covers each mission and often includes alternate patches and crew photos. The miscellaneous shuttle patches are also a nice treat near the end. Plus, there is a whole section on preparing the orbiters for display...I could write on and on...what an awesome set...worth the wait!

Pricey? Yes. Worth it? OH boy. Jenkin's research, coupled with actually "being there" provides his work product the be the standard by which all standards of aerospace writing, is set.

This arrived as a Christmas present and is just fabulous. Sadly it had zero protection in the mail and must have been dropped somewhere. One corner of the book case itself is smushed inwards and one book has damage too. No problem I thought I would contact Amazon and negotiate some sort of discount or apology voucher, but instead the only option is an automated return, hardly an option at Christmas. So I'm a bit cross that I paid full price for something that was damaged and I have no way to contact amazon to discuss it. Back to the books, clearly a labour of love, very enjoyable so far thanks.

Exactly as stated in the introduction: I just can't put it down. Jenkins is an incredible writer too... basically a listing of statistics and numbers on how many test-rockets were fired, which ones failed, etc. reads like a thriller... A real treat for space enthusiasts and folks who grew up following the shuttle program... I agree with other reviewers: I do think noone can surpasss this book in detail and accessability!

Fabulous books. The ultimate Shuttle reference, worth its price. And no worries about the usual shipping damage lottery from Amazon, this huge and heavy brick comes well protected in its own cardboard box, on top of the amazon one. Go at throttle up and buy it !

This isn't a book, this is a life-time commitment. An encyclopaedic history of the US Space Shuttle from start to finish, with not a single stone unturned. It is an immense and an impressive work, a heavyweight read (literally!) for even the most hardened spaceflight geek. The only thing wrong with it is that it isn't even longer. And as for price? A bargain!

This book blew me away! I love the gold lettering on the cover, black leather binding and the glossy pages. The information is very informative and contains literally over a thousand new pictures in color - never seen before. In fact during my NASA STEM program, I took one of the books to show former NASA Astronaut Mike Foale, and he was very impressed - to the point where he autographed it for me :). Strongly recommend to buy.

A stunning book set and most certainly THE go to book on the shuttle program. Terrific production values and great quality too. Dennis Jenkins is to be congratulated.

This must be the definitive public domain work on this extremely complex project. The level of detail is immense and very well written thus relatively easy to read. So glad to have spent the money. Well worth the outlay.

great books tells you everything about the shuttle and pictures ..

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

Bought as a present for my husband he loves it

Greatest book about Space Shuttle ever published!

Dennis Jenkins masterpiece.

Unglaublich viel Material, zahlreiche Fotos, viel Text und auch viele Skizzen, die man sonst nicht oder nur sehr schwer findet. Ein nahezu unerschöpfliches Werk füe jeden Shuttle Fan. Das Buch sollte mein Geburtstagsgeschenk Ende Juni werden, leider kam es in einem viel größeren Karton ohne Innenpolsterung an. Es muss beim Transport im Karton hin und hergeschlagen sein und die Ecken waren alle total eingedellt, daher hat es mein Bruder zurückgeschickt. Vor etwas über einer Woche habe ich es selber nochmal versucht, wieder ein Karton ohne Polsterung, wieder die Ecken total eingedellt. Ich verstehe nicht, wie man ein 9KG Buch so fahrlässig einpacken kann. Da es 150 Euro kostet und auch ein Sammelstück ist, habe ich es erneut zurückgeschickt. Den dritten Versuch habe ich mir dann gespart und es in einer hiesigen Bücherei bestellt. Es war deutlich teurer, aber es kam unversehrt an... das war es mir Wert.

Mit dieser toll gestalteten Box, welche 3 Bücher beinhaltet, hat sich Mr. Jenkins selbst ein literarisches Denkmal gesetzt. Ich kenne und besitze frühere Bücher zum selben Thema von ihm aber mit diesem Trio hat er sich wahrhaftig selbst übertroffen. Der Inhalt jener edel eingebundenen Bücher rechtfertigt allemal den - zugegeben - ziemlich hohen Preis, wenn man ein absoluter Raumfahrt Enthusiast ist und der Space Shuttle zum Steckenpferd gehört, so wie es bei mir der Fall ist. Der erste Band widmet sich der Geschichte um die Entwicklung der amerikanischen Raumfähre, welche noch viel früher als 1972 begann und worauf der Autor auch detailliert eingeht. Im 2. Band geht es komplett um jene komplexe Technik, welche dieses Raketensystem zum kompliziertesten ihrer Art hat werden lassen. Und im 3. Buch beschreibt der Autor jede einzelne Space Shuttle Mission von STS-1 (1981) bis STS-135 (2011). Selbstverständlich werden beide katastrophalen Missionen (Challenger 51L & Columbia STS-107) gesondert und sehr ausführlich abgehandelt. Mr. Jenkins nimmt den Leser in seinen Büchern mit auf eine historische Reise, welche weit mehr als nur 30 Jahre reine Einsatz-Zeit des Space Shuttle beinhaltet. Dabei kann der Leser jederzeit selbst entscheiden, wie tief er in jede einzelne Thematik eintauchen will. Alle 3 Bände sind reichlich bebildert und zudem mit zahlreichen Diagrammen, Tabellen oder sonstigen Übersichten versehen. Natürlich ist alles in Englisch, was mich persönlich aber nicht stört. Ich persönlich bin quasi mit dem Space Shuttle groß geworden. Ich war gerade einmal 14 Jahre alt, als die "Columbia" zum ersten Mal ins All startete und habe seitdem alle Missionen verfolgt und mich später auch intensiv über die gesamte Geschichte der amerikanischen Raumfähre informiert. Dennoch hat es der Autor geschafft, mich mit noch nie gesehenen Bildern in jenen hier vorliegenden Büchern zu überraschen. Diese 3 Bände sind schlichtweg der "Heilige Grahl" in Sachen Space Shuttle, denn darin findet man so ziemlich alles, was man über das sogenannte "Space Transportation System" (kurz STS) wissen möchte. Ich persönlich bin absolut fasziniert und begeistert, wie ebenfalls auch glücklich diese einmalig informative Enzyklopädie zu besitzen und empfehle Mr. Jenkins sein unglaublich detailliertes Meisterwerk uneingeschränkt weiter. Übrigens, aus meiner Sicht verdient diese Box sogar 6 Sterne!

Formidable coffret sur la navette spatiale américaine, une référence, probablement définitive : texte, iconographie, etc. Un must. MAIS, entre le jour de la commande et le moment où je rédige ces lignes, soit 48 h (!), le prix a baissé de 11 €. Sacrée Amazon ! Par ailleurs, Amazon, ou plus exactement ses employés, fidèles à leurs habitudes et cette vieille tradition faisant tout le charme d'Amazon et donne tout son sel lorsque l'on reçoit un colis de valeur et fragile, n'ont pas jugé bon de protéger le coffret ni de le manipuler avec soin (un terme dont ils ignorent le sens, le concept, et qu'il serait sage, un jour, de leur expliquer...). Il m'est donc arrivé, ce que je craignais, les coins complètement enfoncés et des traces de coups sur un côté du coffret. Inadmissible pour le passionné, mais totalement normal chez Amazon. Ben oui, c'est juste un livre, du papier quoi. De plus, le carton ayant sévèrement pris l'humidité, c'est le coffret qui donnait sa rigidité au carton ! Un comble. Zéro pointé pour Amazon. Une fois de plus... Vous êtes prévenus. P.-S. Je n'ose pas retourner le coffret, un autre exemplaire pourrait arriver dans un état encore pire. Pire, c'est déjà grave, mais là, encore pire. Au fait, l'encadrement d'Amazon prend-il en compte les commentaires des clients ? Hmm ?...

Se siete appassionati del genere, semplicemente curiosi, o magari ingegneri aerospaziali come me, questi 3 volumi non possono mancare nella vostra libreria. Una raccolta incredibilmente completa di informazioni, curiosità ed immagini su una delle macchine più complesse mai costruite dall'uomo. Il prezzo vale assolutamente l'acquisto.

THE Book on the subject if not the last word, have yet to complete all 1500 pages but suffice to say, phenomenal work. I have most of Mr.Jenkins work & this tops them all, especially the background history leading to all decisions on the project. I know Mr.Jenkins specializes with all things with wings but I'd love to see this kind of treatment done to Project Apollo/Moon missions. Top notch stuff.

Semplicemente fantastico. Tre tomi ottimamente rilegati con ricchissimi dettagli sull'intera storia dello space shuttle. Un "must" per gli appassionati di astronautica. Una spesa che vale l'impresa.

Material de referencia en el tema que trata, fruto de un enorme trabajo de investigación, repleto de información técnica e histórica desde los orígenes del transbordador y su diseño hasta su campaña de misiones, diagramas y fotografías de gran calidad, todo ello acompañado de una encuadernación de lujo en tres tomos. Posiblemente, una obra que aumentará su valor con el paso del tiempo; merece un lugar especial en la librería de los interesados en la exploración del espacio.

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

A wealth of information that leaves nothing to be desired. Indulge yourself in the history and technological detail of the Shuttle program. I was looking for a concise history of all missions, and of course it is here. If you want to buy only one work on the Shuttle program, this is it.

This three-volumes edition of the Space Shuttle by Dennis R. Jenkins is the best source ever written on the development and operational history of the US space plane. A must have for space enthusiasts and researchers looking for reference material on the project.

Ein hervorragendes Werk in Inhalt, Aufmachung und Qualität.

I already owned the second and third edition, single volume, of Dennis' opus. This fourth one leaves me speechless. Since everything is betterable, I'd enlarge the Shuttle Derivatives section...

spaceshuttle bibel schlecht hin.

Cette superbe trilogie permet de tout savoir sur la navette américaine Toutes les étude ayant mené ou pas à sa conception et réalisation. Un exceptionnel travail de documentation L'ouvrage de référence - superbe - seul inconvénient son poids !...

Excelente compra, muy completa y con un detalle de cada proceso muy alto.

ECCELLENTE COME CONTENUTO E QUALITÀ' DI STAMPA E RILEGATURA.

C'est l'ouvrage de référence. Un pavé qui prendra du temps à lire, mais j'adore cette "encyclopédie". Complet et abondamment illustré et un beau coffret.

Une mine d'informations sublime sur le sujet

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.

La bible pour qui souhaite réellement approfondir le sujet. Si je ne mets pas la cinquième étoiles, c’est parce que les articles qui traitent chaque mission sont courts. Il aurait fallu un quatrième livre !

Great collection!

My copy arrived today as well. Amazing photography, lots and lots (and lots!) of text, and just an excellent reference overall. It's a shame that you have to go to China to get something like this printed. I'd wait and post a review after I've read the three volumes, but sheesh, that might take a while. One (purely personal) disappointment, in the table of contents and the index I see no mention of the Launch Processing System (LPS) that I and quite a number of people worked on and with. Maybe we can put that in the next book? UPDATE - I finally completed the first of the three volumes and I can confirm that it is great reading, although pretty technical. The text is extensive and the photographs and illustrations are numerous and excellent. Some might take issue with the small size of some of the photographs but obviously this was a compromise to permit the inclusive of the great amount of text. Certainly this first volume must be considered the definitive history of the space shuttle development overall and some parts of it, for instance the history of the shuttle carrier aircraft (SCA), are some of the best information available today on these individual subjects.

This was my second purchase of the books because I accidentally tore a page in book #3 because I was just simply too reckless with the books and I hate getting anything new messed up or torn up so - I ordered another set. In my mind, Dennis R. Jenkins has done a wonderful and amazing job with these books! The only problem I have is that the font is too small for me (I'm legally blind in one eye and the vision in my right eye isn't the best, either). However, I would recommend these books to anyone who is a space geek or shuttle geek or to anyone who lived through the 30 years that the shuttle flew. At first, the book title "Space Shuttle: Developing an Icon 1972-2013", kind of threw me off a bit but....I then remembered that Dennis mentions in the last book that he was also on the committee who oversaw the decisions of where to place the remaining shuttles on display - so that's why the book has the title it does. The books do NOT go into a lot of detail about the Challenger & Columbia accidents....and rightly so. There are other books out there for those who want to read about the two shuttle tragedies and the loss of 14 astronauts. Again, if you know anyone who is a space junkie or space geek and loves the "space shuttle era", I know they would love this book because I definitely do!!!

I am somewhat of a 'space nut' and have many books on the technical side of space programs. I have never read a more comprehensive account of any of the manned space programs than this. Absolutely marvelous! It can get quite technical at times, but that is what i prefer. I would think to the non-technical types, however, this would be an equally enjoyable read. I learned so much from this series of books that i hadn't known before about the SSME - Space Shuttle Main Engines development, ET - External Tank, SRB - Solid Rocket Boosters, all of the components that flew. There is also considerable information on the launch Facilities too which i loved. The entire third book is focused on the missions themselves. This is absolutely the best books I have ever read on any of the manned space programs.

The phase "Ultimate Reference" just doesn't do this set any justice. If you want the be all end all for the Space Shuttle, this is it, ignore the price tag and just do it. You'll be like me, very glad you did.. and in my case, very glad my wife approved the purchase :-)

Beautiful volume. Previous editions were great, but this is the finest history of the shuttle you're likely to find. Well worth the money. Tons of information, wonderful images from every flight, and all kinds of details. Quality job of the printing. A handsome, useful set for any space enthusiast's home library. Dennis Jenkins has outdone himself!

Jenkins has compiled the one-stop collection on the history of the Space Shuttle Program. In the previous editions, he did a great job of reviewing the history of space transportation goals and aspirations, as well as documenting the STS development and operations. Those were single volumes and it is no accident that this edition takes three (in a nice case, too). Everything is expanded and enhanced. If you only want one book on the Space Shuttle, this is it. If you can stand two, the other is "Wings in Orbit" by Wayne Hale and Helen Lane. But that is more technical and does not have the same degree of historical context, photos, illustrations and diagrams, or related materials. Without getting too emotional about it, I think Jenkins has done history a great service by developing so thorough and comprehensive a set of books. He is a prolific writer and this was clearly a substantial effort.

Don't let the price tag dissuade you. If you're a real space enthusiast, students of engineering, or die-hard Shuttle buff, you need this in your collection. Some of this is duplicated from Jenkins' previous (and excellent) work "Space Shuttle: The History of the National Space Transportation System The First 100 Missions", but that book contains a mere fraction of the material found in this collection. Far more of the illustrations in this collection are in color, and there are many more of them. It's replete with schematics and diagrams you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. This is a purchase you're not going to regret.

I was a Life Sciences intern in 1973 and 1974 at JSC, and Research Fellow at ARC in 1976. I had an opportunity of working with Dr. Musgrave in 1974, and he wrote a fine forward for this book. In 1976 I flew on the Galileo II as it developed approach to landing routines suitable for the shuttle. This is a very comprehensive history of Space Shuttle, and replete with photographs. It brought back many memories and filled-in many details about this project. Moreover, there is considerable discussion of the pre-shuttle lifting bodies which I found fascinating. I can highly recommend this book. Prof. Steven Saliterman, University of Minnesota

I am so happy I purchased this collection. I love the Space Shuttle and this has so much information I still haven't even scratched the surface. There are three beautifully bound books with nice gold lettering, each having more than 500 pages full of information (over one million words), history, specs, missions, etc and of course....beautiful pictures. While some might think this is a lot of money for a couple books, but it is worth every cent if you are a Space Shuttle enthusiast like I am and it would be beautiful in your space shuttle collection or library.

The detailed reviews already presented should convince you to purchase this incredible compilation on the the entire Space Shuttle program. The NASA history office should simply adopt this effort as it's (has theirs ever been published?) official history because I doubt they can do better. If the price worries you realize that money is either paper or plastic but this masterpiece (although made of paper) will last for at least a generation. What a pleasure to be in possession of such a professional endeavor.