Introduction to Rocket Science and Engineering

Travis S. Taylor has worked on various projects for NASA and the U.S. Department of Defense, including advanced propulsion concepts, space-based beamed energy systems, space launch concepts, and large space telescopes. Dr. Taylor was also one of the principle investigators for the Ares I Flight Test Planning effort for NASA Marshall Space Center. He holds a doctorate in Optical Science & Engineering from the University of Alabama - Huntsville, and additional degrees in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, and Astronomy. Dr. Taylor is also known for his television shows - "Rocket City Rednecks" (National Geographic Network) and "Three Scientists Walk Into a Bar" (the Weather Channel). He has also written several science fiction novels, and two college textbooks. He and his family live in northern Alabama, within sight of the Saturn V rocket that's on exhibit at the untsville space flight center.