Rocket Propulsion Elements: An Introduction to the Engineering of Rockets

by George P. Sutton

This is the Sixth Edition of the leading textbook on rocket propulsion for courses in aerospace engineering. It covers the basic physical principles of rocket propulsion such as nozzle thermodynamics, heat transfer, flight performance, and fuel chemistry. It also includes the design rationale of components such as nozzles, fuel chambers, structures, and control systems. All rocket types are covered, i.e., liquid, solid, hybrid fueled, and electric propulsion systems.

Genres: Engineering, Science, Space, Textbooks, Physics, Nonfiction, Technology

656 pages, Hardcover

First published November 30, 1962

Reviews

[Rohit Wakode · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for all aspiring engineers who want to work on building launch vehicles. Depending on your background, this book along with few others would give you enough technical knowledge to start off your career in the booming private space industry.

[David Hewitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must have on the desk of any propulsion engineer...

[Lhreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read this cover-to-cover because most of its contents were already covered in my propulsion course; however, it has been an infinitely valuable resource for my project. It contains an abundance of real-life data and examples, as well as in-depth explanations of how and why you should consider a variety of phenomena when building a rocket motor, be it a SRM, a LRE or hybrid.
If you're an engineering student who is taking a rocket propulsion course, by all means, you can rely on this book (and maybe the Humble for LREs). It isn't enough for professional work, but it's an excellent learning tool.

[Oscar Mabon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The bible of rocket science, whenever I need information about any form of engine this book will have it. I use it as more of a reference book - so haven't actually read the whole thing (probably about half), but the depth is really appreciated.

[Adrian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Feels a bit dated, however nice introduction to rocket propulsion. Skipped the chapter on solid propellents.

[Sebastian]

from https://youtu.be/9DzZci7M0pQ

[Luke Tipton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable and exciting.
Very, very broad in scope, thereby scarce in detail.

[iain meek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodness. Heavy going- this is at least a first year university course... and I promised to give it back in 4 weeks.

and

4 week later... I have only fully read to page 225 out of about 600. Read the interesting bits out of the second half but largely ignored solids and electrics. Haven't grasped the formulas so could not yet design a booster/ propulsion system.

[Surya Teja · Rating 5 out of 5]

just interesting topics