This volume of "Architectural Design" has been devised to open architects' eyes to the possibility of designing for outer space. The tourist industry view travelling to near space as a realistic objective, and companies such as Hilton Internatioinal have already produced schemes for space hotels. However, architects have been slow in responding to the challenges and opportunities that space offers. "Space Architecture" is both pragmatic and artistically inspiring, exploring the economics of space and the practicalities of space flight, as well as art by David Bowie, who created the influential space icon, Major Tom. The work of artists Damien Hurst and Davide de Angelis is also featured, and other important contributors included Arthur C. Clarke and Patrick Moore. Contributions from those who have already experienced working in outer space include the astronaut Buzz Aldrin and space architect John S. Spacer.