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Memorial Tributes Volume 16 (2012) / Chapter Skim
Currently Skimming:

JOHN F. YARDLEY
Pages 372-377

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Select key terms on the right to highlight them within pages of the chapter.


From page 373...
... From 1946 to 1958, John contributed to numerous McDonnell aircraft designs and took on increasing responsibilities for structural analysis and design, serving as chief strength engineer from 1955 to 1958. In 1950 he earned an M.S.
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From page 374...
... It was this recognition and design approach that won the NASA contract for McDonnell to build the first manned spacecraft that flew Alan Shepard and John Glenn into space. From 1958 to 1960, John served as Project Engineer for the Mercury spacecraft design.
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From page 375...
... This required the development of space radar systems to determine range and range rate, computer programs to compute the maneuvers required, an onboard computer for making calculations, devices for displaying information to the pilots, and docking mechanisms to bring the space vehicles together. In addition, the program developed such new systems as fuel cells to provide electric power and the ability to perform a controlled entry path to a specific landing area through an automatic control system guided by means of an onboard computer.
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From page 376...
... As the program began to develop, NASA sought an experienced engineering manager from the aerospace industry to lead the effort. In 1974 the NASA hierarchy prevailed on John Yardley to leave his post at the McDonnell Douglas Corporation and join NASA to become associate administrator for manned space flight.
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From page 377...
... Department of Defense payloads that support intelligence efforts, numerous commercial satellites, other complex scientific satellites, and eventually the delivery and assembly of the International Space Station are testimony to the significance of the Space Shuttle program. John received many honors and awards during his distinguished career.
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Key Terms

  • shuttle program
  • mcdonnell douglas
  • mcdonnell aircraft
  • john yardley
  • space transportation

  • space program
  • aircraft corporation
  • manned spacecraft
  • onboard computer
  • douglas astronautics

  • mercury project
  • continued budgetary
  • level reporting
  • landing program
  • fabric required

  • determine range
  • service awards
  • scientific satellites
  • hierarchy prevailed
  • nasa hierarchy

  • john contributed
  • navigation devices
  • aerospace industry
  • political support
  • married phyllis

  • nasa public
  • lunar landing
  • position included
  • launch pad
  • national space


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