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Faster, Better, Cheaper

Low-cost Innovation in the U.S.Space Program

Hardcover

Published: 14th November 2001
For Ages: 22+ years old
RRP $84.99
$77.35
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In Faster, Better, Cheaper: Low-Cost Innovation in the U.S. Space Program, Howard E. McCurdy examines NASA's recent efforts to save money while improving mission frequency and performance. McCurdy details the sixteen missions undertaken during the 1990s -- including an orbit of the moon, deployment of three space telescopes, four Earth-orbiting satellites, two rendezvous with comets and asteroids, and a test of an ion propulsion engine -- which cost less than the sum traditionally spent on a single, conventionally planned planetary mission. He shows how these missions employed smaller spacecraft and cheaper technology to undertake less complex and more specific tasks in outer space. While the technological innovation and space exploration approach that McCurdy describes is still controversial, the historical perspective on its disappointments and triumphs points to ways of developing "faster, better, and cheaper" as a management manifesto.

This excellent summary of an important part of NASA's history is recommended for all readers. Choice Readers interested in either the management or economics of complex organizations will find a wealth of material in this well-written exposition. Fans of space travel, like the author himself, will also enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at NASA's operation. -- Michael N. Geselowitz Enterprise and Society An excellent overview of Goldin's initiative and of the scholarly literature that bears on the topic. Technology and Culture It is an engaging story, and the book itself is small enough for bedtime reading. Satellite Evolution Group 2007

List of Boxes
Acknowledgments
The Reform
The Nature of the Challenge
Cost Control
The Philosophy
Mars Pathfinder
Organization
Technology
Risk and Reliability
Future Implications
Notes
Index
Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.

ISBN: 9780801867200
ISBN-10: 0801867207
Series: New Series in NASA History
Audience: Professional
For Ages: 22+ years old
Format: Hardcover
Language: English
Number Of Pages: 192
Published: 14th November 2001
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
Dimensions (cm): 21.6 x 14.0  x 1.8
Weight (kg): 0.385