The Steel Albatross is prototype SA-1a, a submarine like no other before it. The Albatross works like a glider, undetectable to enemy sonar, moving stealthily with the force of gravity and ballast to plumb the darkness of the deep. Carpenter has written a novel that combines his unique technological insight with action and vivid characters--the work of a true American hero now distinguishing himself as a top-flight novelist.

(Key Words: Navy, War, NASA, Submarines, Scott Carpenter).