To workers in the field this book will probably tell little that is new, but for the casual reader it is a fascinating collection. Although occasionally quite technical, it vividly conveys the complexity of space flights with their medical relationships, allowing the reader to share in the excitement of the venture.
At first this book appears to be a collection of random papers given at a somewhat disorganized symposium. It contains serious scientific work ranging from a device for simulating weightlessness, through maintenance of cardiovascular adaptability during prolonged weightlessness, cosmic ray effects, water recovery systems, to the food use of the alga Chlorella. Also included are interesting articles on the history and development of space vehicles, remote monitoring of medical data, and the possible problems of manned space flight. Apparent throughout is the authors' commitment to this great adventure of our times, and the historical awareness of its import.
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