Exploration and Engineering: The Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Quest for Mars

This Book chronicles the history of Mars exploration, particularly focusing on the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) role. It examines the evolution of mission strategies, engineering challenges, and the impact of political and budgetary constraints on Mars missions. The text highlights key missions like Mars Observer, Pathfinder, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Climate Orbiter, Mars Polar Lander, the Mars Exploration Rovers, Phoenix and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. It investigates the shift from the "faster, better, cheaper" approach to a more robust, albeit costly, mission design. The study traces the evolving understanding of Mars and JPL's adaptation to changes through the recounting of these major missions. Finally, it connects these missions to broader scientific and human exploration goals for the red planet.You can listen and download our episodes for free on more than 10 different platforms:https://linktr.ee/book_shelterGet the Book now from Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Exploration-Engineering-Propulsion-Laboratory-History/dp/1421421224?&linkCode=ll1&tag=cvthunderx-20&linkId=4488651618371339f63900eab6e23664&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tlProduced by Podcai Studio:https://www.podcaistudio.com/