August 2009

Apollo: Through the Eyes of the Astronauts by Robert Jacobs (Abrams, 2009, ISBN: 9780810921467). This summer marks the 40th anniversary of Apollo 11's first manned landing on the moon. Apollo celebrates this milestone anniversary and is an extensive, illustrated account of nine Apollo missions. Featuring a foreword by Stephen and Lucy Hawking, Apollo tells the stories of the astronauts through vivid photos and detailed text.

Pilot's Guide to Modern Autopilots DVD (Sporty's, 2009, ID# D244A). Sporty's latest release helps pilots make the most of their autopilot: They'll learn important procedures that should be performed on every flight. The program uses scenario-based training for instrument approaches, SIDs and STARs, and enables pilots to reduce workload. Order at www.sportys.com.

F6F Hellcat at War by Cory Graff (Zenith Press, 2009, ISBN: 978-0760333068). In addition to over 5,000 air-to-air kills in the Pacific, the F6F had the highest kill/loss ratio of any U.S. fighter plane in WWII. More than 300 of its pilots achieved "ace" status. This lavishly illustrated book is a tribute to the most successful fighter aircraft in naval history.

Air Combat Manoeuvres: The Technique and History of Air Fighting for Flight Simulation by Steve Thompson (Specialty Press, 2009, ISBN: 9781903223987). This is the definitive book for flight simmers interested in combat simulation. Tactics for all general-combat sims and various theaters of combat are included. With its state-of-the-art digital-illustration techniques, players will learn how and when to employ the best maneuvers to beat both the computer and other players.

The Sky My Kingdom: Memoirs of the Famous German WWII Test Pilot by Hanna Reitsch (Casemate, 2009, ISBN: 9781932033977). At one point in her flying career, Hanna Reitsch was Hitler's favorite pilot. She was one of only two women awarded the Iron Cross First Class during WWII, and the only woman awarded the Luftwaffe Combined Pilot and Observer Badge with Diamonds. Her autobiography offers an in-depth historical account and insight into the Luftwaffe and its operations.