Dictionaries and Directories

Like encyclopedias, there are general dictionaries that cover wide-ranging words/topics, and there are subject dictionaries that include terms and concepts from a specific subject area.

Subject dictionaries provide definitions and/or short explanations of the terms and concepts used in the specific discipline. It’s a good idea to consult a subject dictionary when you are unfamiliar with the terminology associated with your research topic.

For example, after looking at an encyclopedia entry on space stations, there may be terms that are unfamiliar to you such as "geostationary satellite."

Subject dictionaries such as the McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms can be used to find a definition of the above term as well as other terms related to space station technology:

Looking up the definition directs you to the definition shown here.

 

Directories provide an organized list of people, associations, institutions, companies, etc., and include ‘identifying’ information such as an address, telephone number, fax number or web site address, personnel, publication name and other brief, descriptive information.

Directories can be used to locate organizations that supply specialized information on an area or perform a specific service. The yellow pages is an example of a directory.

 

 

This is an entry from Jane's Space Directory. Names of specific research centers, space industry organizations and companies affiliated or producing space station technology can be found in this source.

 

Handbooks & Manuals