The first comprehensive reference on the design, analysis, and application of space vehicle mechanisms Space Vehicle Mechanisms: Elements of Successful Design brings together accumulated industry experience in the design, analysis, and application of the mechanical systems used during space flight. More than thirty experts from a variety of related specialties and subspecialties share their insights, technical expertise, and in-depth knowledge on an enormous variety of topics, including: * Stainless steel, beryllium, and other widely used materials * Bearings * Lubricants and component lubrication * Release devices * Motors * Optical encoders * Resolvers * Signal and power transfer devices * Deployment devices * Thermal design * Radiation and survivability * Electrical interfaces * Reliability Space Vehicle Mechanisms is an indispensable resource for engineers involved in the design and analysis of mechanical assemblies used in space flight, and a valuable reference for space systems engineers, mission planners, and control systems engineers. It is also an excellent text for upper-level undergraduate and graduate-level courses in astronautical and mechanical engineering.