Interplanetary Astrodynamics (ePub)

Dr. David Spencer is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University, in State College, Pennsylvania. His research areas include: spacecraft dynamics and controls, trajectory optimization, theoretical and applied astrodynamics, space systems engineering, space traffic management, orbital debris dynamics and space technology development.

He began his career as a Member of the Technical Staff in the Astrodynamics Department at The Aerospace Corporation. He then worked for the Air Force Research Laboratory in various positions in the Space Vehicles Directorate. He joined the faculty at The Pennsylvania State University in 1999 and retired as an emeritus professor in 2021. He is now back at The Aerospace Corporation as a Senior Staff member. He is a Full Member of the International Academy of Astronautics, a Fellow of the American Astronautical Society, an Associate Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and a former Associate Editor for the Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets.

Dr. Spencer received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kentucky, an M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Purdue University, an M.B.A. from Penn State, and a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Dr. Davide Conte is an Assistant Professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, in Prescott, Arizona. His research areas include: trajectory optimization, theoretical and applied astrodynamics, space systems engineering, space mission design, and proximity operations.