Star Trek by Michael Okuda, Rick Sternbach (1991, Paperback, Reissue)

This book is about the closest you will get to the Enterprise short of visiting the sets! This excellent book explains in great "scientific" detail all of the Enterprise's systems from well-known systems like the warp drive system and weapon systems to lesser known systems such as the lifeboats and shuttlecrafts. It even covers "mundane" systems like fire suppression and waste management systems. You will get a full tour of every major and minor system on every deck of the ship. This book is not limited to just systems -- it also covers instruments like PADDs, tricorders, phasers, communicators, and more. In addition, there are explanations of Starfleet and Starship protocols and emergency procedures like saucer separation. This book goes into amazing detail and by the time you're done reading the "Star Trek Next Generation Technical Manual" you will (almost! <g>) be ready to take the Conn of the real thing! A perfect 5/5!!!