The Apollo Guidance Computer

The technological marvel that facilitated the Apollo missions to the Moon was the on-board computer. In the 1960s most computers filled an entire room, but the spacecraft''s computer was required to be compact and low power. Although people today find it difficult to accept that it was possible to control a spacecraft using such a ''primitive'' computer, it nevertheless had capabilities that are advanced even by today''s standards.

This is the first book to fully describe the Apollo guidance computer''s architecture, instruction format and programs used by the astronauts. As a comprehensive account, it will span the disciplines of computer science, electrical and aerospace engineering. However, it will also be accessible to the ''space enthusiast''. In short, the intention is for this to be the definitive account of the Apollo guidance computer.

Frank O''Brien''s interest in the Apollo program began as a serious amateur historian. About 12 years ago, he began performing