The Space Shuttle Decision

Incredibly rich in detail and angles on the decision making that lead to the Space Shuttle. The chapters are organized mainly topically and only loosely chronologically.

What drove me to this book was to understand what lead to the Space Shuttle, which albeit being an iconic and impactful spacecraft, it also hit way below its mark in economy and safety. I don’t think it would be fair for me to conclude something here, but this book at least gave insight into the very complicated relationship between engineering ambitions, public interest, economics and the art of the possible.

I would only really recommend this if you are a major space buff. Unlike The Power Broker, the narrative and conclusion isn’t strong. It is more matter-of-fact like Stages to Saturn.