The Universal Man: Theodore Von Karman's Life in Aeronautics. by Gorn, Michael H - 1992.

Washington, D.C.:: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1992.. 1st Printing.. Hardbound . BINDING/CONDITION: light turquoise binding with darker cloth at the spine; a Very Good book, with a Very Good dust jacket.. 8vo (9.25 inches tall) . Notes, essay on sources, index. Description: Includes a section of black and white photo plates. The publisher's blurb reads: ''this recounts the full range of Theodore von Karman's scientific and social accomplishments. Regarded as one of the fathers of supersonic flight, von Karman pioneered the use of applied mathematics in aeronautics and astronautics and, in the process, discovered some of the fundamental laws of both disciplines. Von Karman used his theoretical knowledge to design aircraft, dirigibles, rockets, and missiles. He also demonstrated the first solid-propellant rocket engine. As significant as these accomplishments are they form but a portion of this great man's legacy. He was a gifted teacher, passing on to three generations of students his own novel approach to problem solving. Possessing a unique capacity to harmonize unlike temperaments and focus them on common objectives he promoted an unprecedented degree of international scientific cooperation. He was the moving force behind many now-famous institutions. In a compact, nontechnical work intended for general readers, this provides a rounded picture of this warm and eminently humane scientist's life and examines the extent who which personality influences the course of science.'' This is part of the Smithsonian History of Aviation Series.