1.0 Preface
The preface explains that this revised Star Fleet Academy text introduces the basic principles of space navigation and is keyed to a set of four-color star charts, followed by production credits, a publication note, and a request for reader comments.
The preface describes the manual as a Star Fleet Academy text that has been revised and updated into an introduction to the basic principles of navigation in space. It notes that some background in navigation or mathematics is helpful for the more advanced techniques, and that the authors aimed for concise language accessible to a broad readership, pointing to more comprehensive works where concepts are especially difficult.
It states that, after reading the manual, the reader will grasp the basics of interstellar travel, including the use of star charts, navigation and course calculations, and the regulations governing spacecraft operation, while stressing that much more study is needed to become a navigator. It also explains that a set of four-color star charts accompanies the manual, keyed to the navigation information in later sections, and recommends consulting them throughout.
Credits
- Project Design and Coordination — Jeff Maynard
- Concept Artist — Michael McMaster
- Manual Author and Technical Consultant — John Upton
- Copy Control — Geoffrey Mandel
- Technical Art — Lee Cole
- Typography and Layout — Barbara White (Reilert)
- Airbrush Artists — Michael Nicastre, Rick Sternbach
- Proofreading — Phillis Molava
- Technical Assistance — Sara Hillman
A closing note credits the Technical Publications Section of Star Fleet Command with preparing the manual and the accompanying charts, authorized for general release and accurate as of publication, with updates to be issued as Technical Information Bulletins available from the Publications Clerk at any Star Fleet installation.
Reader Comments
The section invites readers to send comments and criticisms to the Technical Publications Section, asking what the manual is used for, whether the material was easy to read and well organized, what needs clarifying or correcting, and any other helpful feedback. Readers are asked to cite the manual name and number (Introduction to Navigation, TM:300149–03) when writing to Star Fleet Command, Technical Publications Section.