General Books

General Books
Online Catalogue | General Books

BRIXMIS
The Last Cold War Mission

By Steve Gibson

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For those who are aware of it BRIXMIS (British Commander-in-Chief's Mission to the Group Soviet Forces of Occupation in Germany) is one of the most covert elite units of the British Army. They were dropped in behind 'enemy lines' ten months after the Second World War had ended and continued with their intelligence-gathering missions until the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989.

During the Cold Ware Berlin was noted as a hotbed of spying between East and West. BRIXMIS was established as a trusted channel of communication between the Red Army and the British Army on the Rhine. However, they acted in the shadows to steal advanced Soviet equipment and penetrate top-secret training areas. This fascinating book offers a new understanding of the complex British role in the Cold War.

BRIXMIS is an excellent and thought-provoking account of Cold War spying about a little know British Military Mission. For anyone interested in the Cold War era and spying in general this book is a must.

Size: 129x198mm, 400 pages. ISBN: 9780 7509 8772 1

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Space Exploration
Past Present Future

By Carolyn Collins Petersen

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Humanity has always looked to the stars, but it hasn't been until relatively recently that we have managed to travel into space. Space Exploration takes us on a journey from the first space pioneers and their work. From the First World War led technological advances in rocketry that formed the basis for the Space Age, to the increasing corporate interest in space this book details our steps into sace. It is viewed from our potential future in pace on Mars to be exact and considers how we will reach that point. Space Exploration concludes with our current advances and our immediate ambitions in space exploration. The future and its scientific possibilities are enthralling: who will be the first to step on Mars? Will matter/antimatter annihilations take us to the Kuiper Belt, or will it be ion propulsion? What is the Alcubierre Warp Drive? Will it take us to the stars?

Space Exploration is a great hardback book that both entertains and enlightens where we may be going with space exploration and is a thoroughly recommended read.

Size: 156x234mm, 304 pages. ISBN: 9781 4456 5603 8

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Discovery of the Universe
A History of Astronomy and Observatories

By Carolyn Collins Petersen

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This great hardback book charts the progress of astronomy through the observatories used throughout history, from the earliest such as Stonehenge to places like Birr Castle with its Leviathan telescope used by Herschel, places where the secrets of the universe were first unlocked by science. The Discovery of the Universe describes instruments now in use around the planet ranging from the Mauna Kea Observatories in Hawaii to the South Pole Telescope in Antarctica that hunts for the faint emission of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). In addition, astronomers today use an array of orbiting observatories and the ground-based observatories can now attain near 'Hubble' standards of accuracy, despite peering into space through our atmosphere.

The Discovery of the Universe looks at the amazing science that has been done using the world's suite of observatories. It presents examples of astronomical discoveries made across the widest spectrum as observatories extend humanity's vision across the depths of space and time.

Size: 156x234mm, 304 pages. ISBN: 9781 4456 8413 0

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X, Y & Z
The Real Story of How Enigma Was Broken

By Dermot Turing

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In the bathroom of a Belgian hotel in December 1932, a French spymaster photographs secret documents - operating instructions of the cipher machine, Enigma. A few weeks later a mathematician in Warsaw begins to decipher the coded communications of the Third Reich and lay the foundations for the code-breaking operation at Bletchley Park. The co-operation between France, Britain and Poland is given the cover name 'X, Y & Z'. By December 1942 in the middle of World War II the Polish code breakers are in France on the run from the Gestapo. People who know the Enigma secret are not supposed to be in the combat zone for fear of capture so MI6 devises a plan to exfiltrate them. If it goes wrong, if they are caught, they could give away the greatest secret of the war.

This book X, Y & Z - The Real Story of How Enigma Was Broken describes how French, British and Polish secret services came together to unravel the Enigma machine. It tells of how Enigma code breaking continued in Vichy France and the how code breakers from Poland continued their work for Her Majesty's Secret Service, watching the USSR's first steps of the Cold War. The people of X, Y and Z were eccentric, colourful and caught up in world events that they could watch not control. This is their story based on original research and newly released documents it is the exhilarating story of those who risked their lives to protect the greatest secret of World War Two.

Size: 165x235mm, 320 pages. ISBN: 9780 7509 8782 0

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House of Spies
St Ermin's Hotel

By Peter Matthews

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St Ermin's Hotel has been at the centre of British intelligence since the 1930s, when it was known to MI6 as 'The Works Canteen'. Intelligence officers such as Ian Fleming and Noel Coward were to be found in the hotel's Caxton Bar, along with other less well-known names. Winston Churchill allegedly conceived the idea of the Special Operations Executive there over a glass (or two) of his favourite champagne in the early days of the Second World War, and the operation was started up in three gloomy rooms on the hotel's second floor, with the traitorous Cambridge Spies among its founders. When Stalin's Russia turned to a peacetime enemy in the Cold War that followed, Kim Philby and Guy Burgess handed over intelligence to their Russian counterparts in the dark corners of the hotel, while MI6 man George Blake operated as a Soviet double agent just across the road in Artillery Mansions. Meanwhile, St Ermin's proximity to government offices ensured its continued use by both domestic and foreign secret agents. In this paperback edition of the first book on St Ermin's, Peter Matthews, a witness to the intelligence battle for supremacy between MI5, MI6 and the KGB, explores this remarkable true history that is more riveting than any spy novel.

House of Spies is an intriguing book where the author, sometimes drawing on his own experiences in the less than glamorous world of secret operations uses the Hotel's links with spying events to plot a narrative involving espionage in both World Wars, the inter-war years and the Cold War.

Size: 129x198mm, 296 pages. ISBN: 9780 7509 8416 4

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How to survive an Atomic Attack
A Cold War Manual

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This book is a fascinating guide to official 1950's US government advice on how to survive an atomic attack - including full instructions on building your own nuclear shelter.

In 1949 the Soviet Union detonated its first nuclear bomb, heralding the era of the Cold War in which the prospect of a thermonuclear attack and Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) put every man, woman and child in the firing line. The US government issued a series of booklets explaining how to protect your family. This compilation includes Survival Under Atomic Attack with practical advice on constructing a shelter, the Family Shelters Series containing detailed construction diagrams, and Fallout Protection, a straightforward explanation of the dangers of a nuclear attack.

This book provides a chilling insight from a distinctly cold war perspective into the realities of life under the threat of Armageddon. Great artwork of the era is combines to make this a cracking little read.

Size: 165x235mm, 96 pages. ISBN: 9781 4456 3997 0

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Forgotten Science
Strange Ideas from the Scrapheap of History

By S. D. Tucker

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Science has a reputation as the most logical and rational of human pastimes - but this has not always been the case. Some of them were genuine geniuses; others were simply lone loons. History is littered with their wreckage, and this hardback book tells the story of the very strangest.

From the inventor Nikola Tesla, who fell in love with his favourite pigeon and tried to broadcast his own thoughts, to the wannabe chemist August Strindberg, who injected apples with drugs to see if they could get high, numerous scientists have conducted bizarre experiments down the centuries. This book is packed with stories like this and from the most improbable to the frankly disturbing they make fascinating and thought-provoking reading. The author's eclectic mix covers a wide variety of material and with sections titled Evolutionary Dead Ends: Fairies playing at the bottom of Darwin's Garden and the like there is certainly plenty to ponder.

Proposing that science has become a kind of modern religion, and telling the tale of such noted pseudoscientific fads and fallacies as alchemy, spontaneous generation and the doomed quest to raise the dead, Forgotten Science can make you laugh at the same time as making you think. Science at school was never this weird.

Size 234x156mm, 320 pages, ISBN: 9781 4456 4837 8

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Inside Enigma
The Secrets of the Enigma Machine and other Historic Cipher Machines

By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP & Dan Perera

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Many have heard about the Enigma machines of WWII but few have an understanding of the history of these impressive machines, how they work or went on to be developed. This fully updated second edition of Inside Enigma provides in depth detail on how these machines worked and why the even though the codes proved breakable that developments of this machine remained in service for many years after the war finished.

Inside Enigma has been written by established Enigma experts Tom and Dan Perera of the enigmamuseum.com who's collection of Enigma machines have been used in Hollywood blockbusters such as the Imitation Game. This book brings to life how the Enigma machines were constructed, worked, used, how the messages were encoded and why the Enigma code was considered virtually unbreakable. You will find explanations of the code breaking efforts, the mathematics involved along with the Cold-War developments by the British, Americans and Russians. There is in depth detail of the machines used in this period, including the Swiss machines that were developed. The writers have also provided information on how to find your own Enigma machine and what can be involved in restoring one. If your efforts to find a machine fail, there are even guides to building your own or even making a simple code wheel to bring the code method to life. There is much else besides this included in Inside Enigma as it is both comprehensive and copiously illustrated.

If you want a book covering the secrets, theory and practice of the Enigma Machine in the 20th Century then Inside Enigma provides the ideal source.

Size 202 x 254mm, 208 pages, 2nd Edition, ISBN 9781 9101 9371 6

Price: £9.99

Shoot for the Moon
The Space Race and the Voyage of Apollo 11

By James Donovan

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Fifty years after the Apollo 11 mission made history, this new and impressive maxi paperback book tells the epic story of the astronauts, flight controllers and engineers who made it happen.

On 20 July 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon, a moment ingrained in modern memory. Perhaps the world's greatest technological achievement - and a triumph of spirit and ingenuity ? the Apollo 11 mission and the Apollo program was a mammoth undertaking involving more than 410,000 men and women dedicated to winning the Space Race with the Soviets. Seen through the eyes of those who lived it, Shoot for The Moon reveals the dangers, the challenges and the sheer determination that defined not only Apollo 11, but also the Mercury and Gemini missions that made it possible. Both sweeping and intimate, and based on exhaustive research and dozens of fresh interviews, this is the definitive ? and thrilling ? account of one of humankind's most extraordinary feats of exploration.

A truly inspiring read Shoot for the Moon - The Space Race and the Voyage of Apollo 11 delivers many extra details in this book not covered by others. If you are interested in this period of our history this is a book not to be missed.

Size 160x240mm, 488 pages, ISBN: 9781 4456 9907 3

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Haynes build your own Robot
By James Cooper

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If you are a follower of Robot Wars is the highly successful TV series or not, this Hardback book is very well written and incredibly detailed. This Haynes manual is produced in a similar style to the familiar 'how to' guides for cars but doesn't just include details about building robots but much more.

This Haynes - Build Your Own Robot Manual provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the show - the arena, and both house and competitors' robots. Lavishly illustrated with high quality pictures there are step-by-step extensively illustrated instructions for building three project robots, from a simple 'self-navigating' robot, to a fully controllable Robot Wars challenger.

If you have been fascinated by robot competitors 'fighting to the death' on TV this could be the book for you. Why not indulge yourself whilst reading about construction techniques and of course competitor teams battling each other and the fearsome 'house robots' - Dead Metal, Matilda, Shunt and Sir Killalot?

The Haynes - Build Your Own Robot Manual essential reading for all Robot Wars fans and anyone interested in something different to construct.

Hardback, Size 216x279mm, 176 pages ISBN: 9781785211867

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Last Train to Hilversum
A journey in search of the magic of radio

by Charlie Connelly

This new hardback book reminds us about the wonders of radio. In the UK 90% of the adult population listens to broadcast radio every week. That is almost 49 million people listening for on average 21.3 hours a week each.

Written by Charlie Connelly a bestselling author and award-winning broadcaster the Last Train to Hilversum is a witty and informative look back over the years of British broadcast radio. Packed with anecdotes from the sublime to the ridiculous Charlie explores its geniuses, crackpots and charlatans who got us to where we are today. He remembers its voices, personalities, programmes and visits the key radio locations from history.

From the Dame Nellie Melba's first broadcast 1920 from Marconi in Chelmsford to amongst others the Derby Wireless Club, through to the first commentary on rugby from Twickenham where the summariser asked "Do they always use an oval ball?" and had no understanding of the rules of the game. There is even a chapter devoted to the SOS appeals made by the BBC from the 1920s to 1950s at the rate of a thousand a year, more fascinating might be the appeals not broadcast at the time including the rather unsavoury appeal offering a £5 reward for anyone 'to bring my wife home for a good hiding'. There is detail of the pirate radio stations, Radio 1, Test Match Special, the Today programme on Radio 4 and the solemn, rhythmic intonation of the shipping forecast - in many ways, our lives measured in kilohertz.

Part nostalgic eulogy, part social history, part travelogue, Last Train to Hilversum is simply a great read that explores our relationship with broadcast radio from its earliest days to the present. Recommended reading for everyone.

Size 153 x 234mm, 336 pages, ISBN: 9781 4088 8999 2

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ZAPPED
From Infrared to X-rays, the Curious History of Invisible Light
by Bob Berman

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The universe is literally made of light. As you read this you are being swarmed by radio waves, step outside and you'll get a dose of ultraviolet and infrared from the sun. ZAPPED written by popular science writer Bob Berman, tells the story of all the light we cannot see, tracing infrared, microwaves, ultraviolet, X-rays, gamma rays, radio waves and other forms of radiation. This highly accessible book provides a view of the historic, world-altering discoveries in the 19th century through to their central role of invisible light in our modern way of life and even the consequences of our newest technologies.

An accessible blend of narrative history and science, ZAPPED tells the story of the unseen energies all around us. Bob reveals what microwaves from smartphones do to our brains, how birds use ultraviolet light to track prey, why gamma rays are the most powerful form of light, and so much more. Replete with amazing characters and mindboggling quantum leaps, ZAPPED offers a teasing peek into the future and some of the startling technologies we might yet live to see. The book even spends time with scientists attempting to detect broadcasts from extra-terrestrials and notes that in 1974 we sent a message to star cluster M13. If any aliens respond promptly, we'll hear from them in 52000

With a unique talent for making science relatable and fun, Bob Berman provides a lively, informative book, packed with "eureka moment" stories, that will delight anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Invisible light spectrum.

Size 190x198mm, 272 pages ISBN: 9781 7860 7373 0

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The Voices
Spying and Radio Warfare During the Cold War

By Gordon Adams, G3LEQ

Many are aware of the spying activity that took place following WWII until the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. Few though are aware of the radio jamming, broadcasts of encrypted messages or any of the other electronic skulduggery that took place during this time. This book shines a light on these activities that range from the extraordinary to the most mundane but most disruptive imaginable.

Readers of The Voices will find the details of the radio warfare engaged in the Americans, Soviets and British along with a number of other countries and groups from the Middle-East to the Caribbean. You will find details of the author's first experiences of radio jamming that lead to his deep fascination as to what was going happening on the airwaves at this time. There is discussion of the activities of propaganda stations such as Radio Marti, Radio Liberty, Radio Free Europe and many others. The mysterious Numbers Stations, their coded messages and the non-attributable callsigns are explained here. The author talks about where the spies operated from and the radio traffic they generated. There is a chapter on Orford Ness and the still secret Cobra Mist project along with a reflection of the role of Cyprus and the UK's Sovereign bases. There is even detail of the role of the BBC and their World Service during these times.

Produced as a tribute to the late, Gordon Adams, G3LEQ this book is based on series of articles first published in RadCom in 2000-2001 and a fond remembrance of someone whose tireless efforts influenced the RSGB for many years. This book has edited from those articles and expanded with new pictures and small amounts of material omitted from that series.

The Voices book is a truly eye-opening read for those who are unaware of this part of our history. It is simply thoroughly recommended reading for those interested in the Cold War and the radio warfare that took place in the latter part of the 20th Century.

ISBN: 9781 9101 9353 2 Size 174x240mm, 120 pages

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The Future of Violence
Robots and Germs, Hackers and Drones: Confronting the New Age of Threat

By Benjamin Wittes & Gabriella Blum

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From drone warfare in the Middle East to digital spying, today's governments have harnessed the power of cutting-edge technology to awesome effect. But what happens when ordinary people have the same tools at their fingertips? Advances in cyber technology, biotechnology and robotics mean that more people than ever before have access to potentially dangerous technologies - from drones to computer networks and biological agents - which could be used to attack states and private citizens alike. The Future of Violence, details the myriad possibilities and enormous risks present in the modern world, and argues that if our national governments can no longer adequately protect us from harm, they will lose their legitimacy. The book also explains how governments, companies and citizens must rethink their efforts to protect our lives and liberty.

The way that technology is changing the threat landscape starkly highlights the importance of public policy in a way we have never seen before. The Future of Violence starts with the exciting "what if" stuff from assassinations by remote control spiders through to drones attacking sporting venues. The book goes onto explore the historical underpinnings that have led us to where we are today. Whilst all the threats discussed may come to pass this book throws a spotlight on the topic and provides a very thought provoking read.

ISBN 9781 4456 6668 6
Size 129x199mm, 336 pages

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British Military Intelligence
Objects from the Military Intelligence Museum

Nick van Der Bijl

One of the little known museums of the UK is the Military Intelligence Museum at Chicksands in Bedfordshire. This museum provides a huge insight into British intelligence activity since Wellington's time and this new book provides a unique look at its fascinating collection.

Through a mix of objects, medals, photographs and documents held in the Military Intelligence Museum, the book tells the story of British military intelligence across the years, moving from its earliest object of the Waterloo medal awarded to the Duke of Wellington's senior intelligence officer to items recovered from operations in Afghanistan. This fascinating collection includes a Boer War photographic stereoscope and uniforms worn by intelligence officers and other ranks during the First World War. Among the Second World War objects are a very rare highest gallantry medal awarded to a British officer by France, items that belonged to a founder of the Long Range Desert Group, an example of a pigeon coop used to deliver pigeons in Occupied Europe, a chess set used by captured Special Operations Executive operatives in Buchenwald concentration camp and copies of forged rations coupons dropped into Germany as part of Psychological Warfare Executive operations. The end of the war saw the Intelligence Corps heavily involved in arresting war criminals in Germany and Japan; among the objects are handcuffs used by a Field Security Section in Occupied Germany to arrest three high-ranking Nazi officials. During the Cold War, the Intelligence Corps role in collecting intelligence from those organisations hostile to British interests and protecting the Army from espionage, sabotage and terrorism is illustrated by several documents.

There are over 180 photographs and illustrations included and the varied nature of these objects illuminates a feature of British military operations that is rarely discussed, despite having been frequently proven to be crucial to their success. British Military Intelligence provides a great read and is thoroughly recommended to anyone interested in the UK's clandestine history.

Size: 165 x 234mm, 96 pages, ISBN: 9781 4456 6238 1

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Boffin
The Early Days of Radar and Radio Astronomy and Quantum Optics

By Prof. Robert Hanbury Brown

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the most important figures in the development of radar and of observational astronomy that the UK has ever produced. This fascinating autobiography provides a unique account of the history of radar in WWII and the development of radio astronomy in the post war years.

Boffin traces the evolution of radar from the static Home Chain used in the Battle of Britain to the inclusion of the first airborne radars used in aircraft for night-fighting. The book covers his work on the polarisation of radio waves, crucial in determining the optimum configuration of the radar aerials on all the early air-to-surface equipment operated by Coastal Command. Air-to-surface radar played a huge role in the detection of surfaced submarines and the winning of the 'Battle of the Atlantic'. In 1942, Hanbury Brown was seconded to the US Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, and working in conditions of great secrecy, he continued the development of the Eureka and Rebecca airborne radar programme.

Post War Hanbury Brown was involved in the early days in the development of Jodrell Bank. Sir Bernard Lovell commented that without Hanbury Brown it was unlikely that the Jodrell Bank Radio telescope would ever have been built. Boffin describes this period and his later work where Hanbury Brown became perhaps best known for his invention of the optical intensity interferometer. Working with other well-known figures in astronomy such as Cyril Hazard and Richard Twiss he was involved in many great advances. Using an optical interferometer he measured for the first time pulsars and quasars. Working in the Australian outback in the 1960s he designed and built a device with mirrors 23ft in diameter moving on a circular railway 600ft across.

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the brightest engineers of the time and Boffin provides his personal story and that of the development of Radar in WWII and the development of Radio Astronomy. This book is thoroughly recommended reading for anyone interested Radar, Astronomy and much besides.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

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Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition
by Sam Denham

Over 30% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

This new paperback edition of the Haynes Thunderbirds Agents' Technical Manual, published to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first airing of the original Supermarionation series, in September 1965, is an inventive, informative and entertaining guide to the world's foremost rescue organisation.

Those familiar with the traditional "Haynes Manual" will recognise the Haynes approach that features cutaway drawings, detailed diagrams, colour illustrations and photographs. This updated edition features an additional seven cutaways of vehicles used in rescue missions, along with even more diagrams, illustrations and photographs. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team of the Thunderbirds TV series. Intended for International Rescue field agents, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual includes an introduction by Jeff Tracy, a look at late 21st Century Technology, Mission files, Operational procedures for agents' missions and much more.

Whether you are familiar with Thunderbirds or not, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team and is an excellent read and a treasure trove of detail and trivia. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition is not only a thoroughly recommended read but it also makes a great gift or treat.

Size: 270 x 210mm, 152 pages, ISBN: 9780 8573 3823 5

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Fort Bridgewoods
From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station

By Stephen G Small, G4HJE

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This is the story of a Victorian Fort that was obsolete before the last stone was laid yet in the early twentieth century became one of the most secret places in the realm. It was here that the developing science of radio became a vital weapon of espionage and war. Without the painstaking work of the expert civilian intercept operators Bletchley Park may well have failed to break the Enigma code and the vital allied intelligence advantage may have been lost.

Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station sets out this fascinating story from its building to its final closure in 1968. The early role as Fleet protection in the late 19th Century and even its WWI activities are detailed along with the significant characters involved in its history. Readers will find much about the highly secret WWII activity as a 'Y' Station which became one of the most important signal gathering stations in Britain's 'Enigma Code' breaking operation. This book is packed with information and readers will find that the radios and equipment used are covered in detail from the early Marconi equipment to the DST-100 receiver, designed specifically for wireless interception work through to the familiar HRO sets used later in the war and are even details of the Hallicrafters and RCA receivers used.

Whilst the World slipped slowly into the abyss of a Second World War the operators of Fort Bridgewoods skilfully developed the science of signals intelligence and were intercepting both the secret diplomatic and military radio traffic. Without Fort Bridgewoods the vital early 'breaks' of the Enigma code would certainly not have happened. Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station describes all of this and provides an insight into the operational work of this 'Y' station and its part in WWII. If you are interested in the radio interception technology of WWII and its pioneers this book is a revelation.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

Price: £8.99

The Birth of British Radar
The Memoirs of Arnold 'Skip' Wilkins

Edited by Colin Latham and Anne Stobbs

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Arnold "Skip" Wilkins is one of the unsung heroes of the British effort to develop radar. The Birth of British Radar book combines the memoirs of Skip with an authoritative overview of the historical importance of his work.

At the core of The Birth of British Radar are Skip's memoirs of his involvement in the British radar (or, as it was then known, radio direction finding, RDF) programme from its very inception in 1935. Working under the direction of Robert Watson-Watt, it was he who proposed using radio waves, bounced back from an enemy aircraft, to detect its position. Initially working entirely alone, he constructed prototype equipment which he used in the famous Daventry experiment conducted in a field near Weeden, Northants, on 26 February 1935. The success of this led to the establishment of the R&D group at Bawdsey Manor with its team of talented scientists, engineers and technicians. From there he describes the engineering and political developments which occurred to change faint traces into a fully working system which played such a crucial role in defending Britain in the Second World War.

This second edition of The Birth of British Radar has been greatly expanded from the original memoirs with a large array of additional material. Each chapter of the memoirs is set in a historical context with an explanatory note. There is a host of extra material including an interview with Skip, details of how radar grew, post war commemorations and much more. The Birth of British Radar contains mono and colour photos along with details of Skip's post war experiences. The story of this publicity-shy individual who never sought public recognition for his achievement, is fascinating. This book describes the struggles and triumphs from the earliest days of radar, in perhaps one of the most important periods in British electronics development, and is highly recommended.

Size 174x240mm, 128 pages ISBN: 9781 9050 8675 7

Price: £9.99

Centenary
100 Years Working for Amateur Radio

By Elaine Richards, G4LFM

As part of the Centenary celebrations the RSGB has commissioned and produced this special hardback book looking at 100 years of RSGB History. In its first century, the RSGB has represented the interests of members at national and international level and provided the framework within which the early pioneers and experimenters thrived. Centenary outlines the century of activity of the RSGB and its members.

Centenary is a peek at the history of the RSGB, which is a rich tapestry indeed. The stories gathered together here provide a glimpse of the people behind the organisation and the way they have shaped the history of the Society. It would have been impossible for all the stories, famous names and events from the first 100 years have made it into print. Nevertheless, this collection of events gives a flavour of the RSGB history and the hobby it supports. From the first days and its initial membership of four, through two World Wars to a new Millennium, the RSGB's membership have taken part in propagation experiments, pushed the boundaries of radio and electronic knowledge and shown what international amateur radio relations is all about. Whether it's proving that VHF communications is more than line-of-sight, showing the world how far radio signals can travel or putting satellites into space, radio amateurs have been involved in it all. Centenary brings together some of the best achievements and tells the story of some of the most well known names in amateur radio history.

Packed with over 200 colour and mono photographs this book provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of the RSGB. Produced as a quality hardback book, with a glossy slip cover and glossy paper throughout, to bring out the detail, this book is exceptional. If you would like a part of the RSGB centenary celebration then Centenary will grace any bookshelf.

ISBN: 9781 9050 8689 4, Hardback
Size: 300x225mm (landscape), 144 pages

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Haynes Owner Workshop Manuals Messerschmitt Bf109
By: Paul Blackah & Malcolm Lowe

Produced as a sister volume to the Haynes Workshop Manual for Supermarine Spitfire this book provides the same treatment to the Luftwaffe's Messerschmitt Bf109. This single-seat fighter was the main combat adversary of the RAF's Hurricanes and Spitfires in the Battle of Britain.

This Haynes Owners Workshop Manual covers the history of the Bf109, restoration to flight, the views of owners, pilots and engineers, and operating and servicing insights. Data boxes cover Bf109 facts and figures, plus interviews with Luftwaffe pilots and modern-day owner-pilots. Illustrated with a mix of specially commissioned colour and archive photographs, the Bf109 Manual also includes illustrations from Luftwaffe official wartime servicing manuals, and coverage of restoration projects in the UK and overseas.

Hardback, Size 270 x 210mm, 160 pages, ISBN 9781-8442-5642-6

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The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird
By Dr Douglas Brown, GM8FFH

**** ONLINE ONLY SPECIAL OFFER - ONLY £7.99 ****

John Logie Baird (1888-1946) is remembered as the inventor of television but his work in colour, 3D and holographic television is much less well known. As are his significant contributions to other information sciences and their resulting technologies. The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird sets out this work and adds a perspective not seen before to the story of this great inventor.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird details the story of this great man from his early years through, to those where despite ailing health and poverty he did more to advance the early development of television than any other individual. He planted the seed, which has grown into a multinational, trillion dollar video and communications media industry. Baird is often dismissed as the person who invented a crude type of television which was quickly superseded but this book lays these criticisms to rest once and for all. For over a quarter of a century Baird developed monochrome, colour and 3D television, and many of the techniques he pioneered are still used in modern day systems. This book goes into detail about how the systems worked and their later development after John Logie Baird's death. The author has even provided projects that can be made which demonstrate the Baird's technology, including colour broadcasting.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird is fascinating read that provides an excellent reference work on his inventions, an insight into the world of television and shows just how much we owe this great inventor.

Size 174x240mm, 208 pages (mono & colour): ISBN: 9781 9050 8679 5

Price: £7.99

Island Fever
By Robin Jones

50% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

If you have ever dreamed of mounting a DXpedition to a far flung part of the world, yet it has never come to pass, this book could easily be a trigger for something closer to home. Packed with potential IOTA activations, low noise enviroments, spots with a large body of salt water on the doorstep, Island Fever is a great book.

Britain is an island nation with hundreds of smaller islands off the mainland shores, each with its own distinct character. Island Fever provides an insight into the some the islands of England and Wales. There are forty chapters in this full colour hard back book covering hundreds of individual islands. Each chapter provides an insight into the islands covered in both text and pictures. From the Marconi's activity on Flat Holm in the Bristol Channel in 1897, through historic Lindisfarne, to the WWII Red Sands forts, this book is packed with interesting stories. The glossy pages host nearly 300 top quality photographs which highlight some of the well known and many lesser known scenic parts of the British Isles that may well tempt you into that DXpedition you have promised yourself.

Hardback, Size 224x 297mm, 160 pages ISBN 9780711034716

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Images Across Space
The Electronic Imaging of Baird Television

By Dr. Douglas Brown

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Written Dr. Douglas Brown a leading authority on TV Images Across Space provides a unique and fascinating insight into the pioneers of television and in particular to Scottish inventor John Logie Baird. From the initial concept of television though to the patent for 3D TV that far surpasses that offered to modern consumers, this book gives a fascinating insight into the man and his developments.

Lavishly illustrated Images Across Space not only provides the background to the development of TV but the story of the Baird Television Ltd. up to its demise and its continuation as Cinema Television Ltd. There are many previously unpublished photographs that illustrate the level of sophistication practiced by the Baird Television Ltd. and revealing photographs of the Baird cathode-ray tube facility, laboratories in the Crystal Palace and Rotunda outbuilding, equipment installed at Alexandra Palace. The book reveals the implications of the devastating fire that spectacularly razed the Crystal Palace to the ground in 1936, taking with it the Baird facilities and an analysis of the television systems on trial for the BBC at Alexandra Palace. Readers will find this book a mine of fascinating material with even a comprehensive listing of the British patents of Baird and his associates at Baird/Cinema Television.

John Logie Baird is remembered as the inventor of the first working system of television but Images Across Space shows that there was much more to the story. Images Across Space is a rare book of technical detail and an extraordinary story - thoroughly recommended reading.

Size 176x250mm, 192 pages, ISBN 9781-8742-8921-0

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Full Circle
A Dream Denied, A Vision Fulfilled

By Theodore J. Cohen

Solly's dream is for his son Teddy to one day become a concert violinist. Eventually he comes to understand and to endure the heartbreak of knowing that the dream never will be realized. As Solly watches, life takes Teddy from gifted violin student to adult engineer and scientist, leaving no time for the career in music Solly so dearly wants his son to pursue. In the end, there emerges the essence of redemption as Teddy returns to the violin late in life and fulfills his and his father's vision. The story, which is a work of fiction based on real events, will fascinate readers from ages ten to one hundred who are interested in radio, communications, and music and in how it was to grow up in a family whose members trace their heritage to that great wave of immigrants that crashed onto America's shores in the mid- to late 1800s.

Size 204x127, paperback, 216 pages, ISBN: 9781 4490 2914 2

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Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide
By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP

This is the third edition of the famous Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide. Written by the leading expert on Telegraph Keys this book provides the reader with the comprehensive guide to telegraph keys. There is a historical background of telegraph keys and details of the types of keys available from the earliest 1830 varieties through to the present day. Morse code keys, spark & wireless keys, military keys from around the world and radio keys are all covered. There is also a wide range of material covering practice sets, semi-automatic keys (or "Bugs"), electronic keyers, paddles, home-made keys and even novelty items. There are even tips on restoring telegraph keys. The book also provides the latest guide prices for the keys along with a hugely valuable cross reference and comprehensive index of the material.

This book contains:
* Historical background
* Details of key types
* Hundreds of pictures
* Current key prices
* Tips on restoration
* Comprehensive & Cross-Referenced Index

This guide is ideal companion for anyone with an interest in telegraph keys and is a fascinating reference work on telegraph and Morse keys since their very inception

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Titanic in Picture Postcards

By Robert McDougall and Robin Gardiner

Before, during and after the loss of the Titanic, the liner was thrust into the public gaze by a massive production of photographs, both official and unofficial. Some really do portray the ship herself, but others show her sister ships, Olympic and Britannic, in disguise. Titanic, following her collision with the iceberg, her gradual sinking, the part played by the ship's orchestra and, from our point of view, the contribution of the ship's radio officer, Jack Phillips, continue to fuel speculation to this day. As the book's fly-leaf suggests, the book is "a remarkable testament to perhaps the most famous liner ever to sail the Atlantic".
Size 215 x 252mm, 128 pages, ISBN: 0-7110-2896-6

Special Offer for RSGB members - Order today and paying only £9.99 saving 50% off the normal retail price of this book

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