It is true, Elon learned a lot about the fundamentals of rocket design and astrodynamics from reading books. But he also learned an incredible amount from those he initially hired and worked with when he started SpaceX.
By attracting some of the top experts in these fields, he gained access to decades of knowledge and experience not necessarily found in textbooks, which he voraciously absorbed by asking questions, having discussions, and watching the engineers work. Eventually he became just as knowledgeable, if not more so, than those he orginially came to for help.
Btw rocket science and rocket engineering are kind of two different things. Building rockets from scratch is far more difficult than just knowing how they work. SpaceX is a rocket engineering company. Elon would not have been able to do it all alone. So it wasn’t just books, it was people as well.
Another important thing to mention is he did already have a physics degree under his belt. I know personally it was much easier for me to understand many of the general concepts and equations already knowing basic Newtonian mechanics.
Still struggling with Electric Propulsion since I haven’t yet taken E&M haha. Next semester. 🙂
Elon Musk’s self-education in rocket science is a combination of his intense curiosity, disciplined reading habits, and a strategic approach to learning. Here are some key points about how he accomplished this:
- Focused Reading: Musk reportedly read numerous books on rocket science, physics, and engineering. He sought out materials that covered the fundamentals as well as advanced concepts. Some influential texts included “The Rocket Propulsion Elements” by George P. Sutton and “Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down” by J.E. Gordon.
- Learning from Experts: Musk reached out to experts in the field, engaging with engineers and scientists to gain insights and clarify complex topics. This networking helped him understand practical applications and industry standards.
- Hands-On Experience: In addition to reading, Musk applied his knowledge practically. When he founded SpaceX, he immersed himself in the engineering and design processes, which allowed him to learn through real-world problem-solving.
- Problem-Solving Approach: Musk emphasizes breaking down problems into fundamental principles. By understanding the basic physics and engineering principles, he was able to tackle complex challenges in rocket design and manufacturing.
- Passion and Motivation: His passion for space exploration and technology drove him to learn extensively, often dedicating significant time to studying and working on projects related to space travel.
Overall, Musk’s combination of voracious reading, practical application, and relentless curiosity enabled him to gain a deep understanding of rocket science without formal training in the field.
