International Space Station
Ten years ago on Dec. 4, NASA and its partner nations began building a dream: the International Space Station. On that date, space shuttle Endeavour lifted off on its 12-day mission to deliver NASA's Unity module and connect it to Russia's Zarya control module already orbiting Earth.
The commander of that first space shuttle construction flight to the station was astronaut Bob Cabana -- now director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Cabana recalls vividly that first trip to the fledgling station, when he and Russian cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev prepared to be the first crew members to enter the newly joined modules.
"We finally got all the hatches open and we're up to the main hatch going into Node 1 (Unity). We open the hatch and Sergei Krikalev was with me. I just waved my hand toward the hatch and the two of us entered together," says Cabana. "I think what it talks about on the space station is international cooperation. You know, there wasn't a first person in. It was we went in together."
Despite his unique place in space station history, it is the sense of international cooperation that continues to impress Cabana.
To learn more about the International Space Station visit http://www.nasa.gov/topics/shuttle_station/index.html and spend hours reading the history of past and current activities and enjoy the fabulous photographs. The above material was take from the NASA site. Also, take some time to purse the selections below to learn about prior efforts and the work taking place to build the International Space Station, its predecessors and the potential for future work in space.
Contributor: Marilyn Courtot
Reviews
Living in Space: From Science Fiction to the International Space Station
Giovanni Caprara
The best reason to buy this book is its illustrations: Every page displays generously sized photos or diagrams of the American and Russian space stations, from Skylab, Salyut, and Mir to the "paper station" Freedom (planned but never built) and the International Space Station. (The book is current to December 1998, when the original Italian edition was published.) Six chapters describing these projects are sandwiched between a beginning chapter on early concepts of space stations in fact and fiction and a final chapter on Gerard O'Neill's visionary space colonies. Unfortunately, the lifeless text does not do justice to the illustrations. Focusing primarily on the engineering and technological aspects of the stations, it reads in some places like a list of everything that can be counted, measured, or weighed. There is no discussion of the science behind the building of the space stations, but we uselessly learn on page 48 that a telescope on Skylab "rotates around its vertical axis by 120 degrees, and the axis could tilt by about 2 degrees with respect to the rack axis." Scant attention is paid to the politics of these projects, although what there is makes interesting reading. Most regrettable is the lack of any description of the human experience of living in space. A somewhat stilted translation adds to the impersonal tone of the narration. Overall, however, the illustrations make this volume a necessary addition to any space enthusiast's library. Index; C.I.P. Recommended, General Audience. 2001, Firefly, 216pp., $29.95. Ages adult. Reviewer: Bradley W. Carroll (Science Books and Films (Vol. 37, No. 5)).
ISBN: 1552095495
ISBN: 9781552095492
The Amazing International Space Station
The Editors of YES Mag
The International Space Station (ISS), five years in construction, orbiting 155 miles above Earth, whose first residents arrived in November 2000, is indeed amazing enough to warrant this book-length introduction. The text is written in a breezy second-person style: "So, you want to hitch a ride into space and see the ISS for yourself? Squirm into your flight suit--hope orange is your color--and step into your waiting taxi, the space shuttle Endeavor." The subsequent imagined voyage is studded with many fascinating tidbits of information about life in this cramped and weightless environment--how to slurp soup so that no fluid escapes; which pizza toppings were judged most germ-free (salami passed the test, pepperoni did not); what activities 'nauts enjoy on board (one Russian 'naut brought his Beatles and Rolling Stones CDs); how to pee, brush teeth, and bathe in zero gravity. The reader definitely feels welcomed aboard the ISS to join its friendly, cheerful crew: the abundant photographs show the 'nauts always grinning, as they "clink" their bags of juice in a mock-toast, or model loud-patterned Hawaiian shirts. An added bonus is frequent suggested activities for the reader: simulating the experience of working in a heavy, insulated space suit; making your own rockets from film canisters and vinegar and baking soda. The book closes with a timeline of relevant events, a guide to "the secret language of space" (an alphabet soup of acronyms), and an index. Lots of informative fun. 2003, Kids Can Press, $15.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Claudia Mills, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
This book is designed to give the young reader an understanding of the different kinds of activities that can take place in the space environment and, specifically, an idea of how many of these activities are carried out in the International Space Station. Through a combination of clearly written text, colorful photographs, and charts, the young reader is led through discussions of the difficulties encountered by people operating in space, the construction and operation of the International Space Station, and the contribution that such manned operations in space can make to humans on Earth. The book starts out by explaining that, with its very high and very low temperatures, its lack of oxygen for breathing, and its potential dangers from radiation, space is not a friendly environment for humans. The narrative then goes on to describe how these hazards are overcome by the International Space Station. Next comes a story of how some 18 nations, working under the leadership of the United States and the Soviet Union, designed and built the International Space Station. A highlight of the book is its description of how the astronauts on the space station carry out daily activities such as eating, sleeping, and working in a gravity-free environment, where a ham sandwich left unattended might well float away. The book also makes the case for potential benefits from activities in space, not only in furthering knowledge, but in developing products, such as crystals, that are of use on Earth. Finally, the book describes a number of simple experiments involving space-related activities, such as launching a rocket, that can be conducted with common household products (e.g., vinegar and salt). This book is not a text, but it would be an excellent reference for a unit on space in grades 4 through 8. It would also be excellent for personal reading. Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 5-8. 2003, Kids Can Press, 48pp., $15.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Thomas Hagler (Science Books and Films (Vol. 40, No. 2)).
ISBN: 1553373804
ISBN: 1553375238
ISBN: 9781553373803
ISBN: 9781553375234
Astronauts
Thomas K. Adamson
An impressive photograph of a space shuttle blasting off launches the reader into this book about what astronauts do. With carefully crafted short sentences in large print, the newly independent reader will discover some of the activities performed by the astronauts. They will want to pore over the large, clear, bright, and inviting photographs of astronauts on the moon, at the space station, and floating in outer space. One of the statements, "They do tests," may be more confusing than enlightening for a first or second grader. According to the Note to Parents and Teachers, this series "supports national science standards related to earth science." Roger D. Launius, PhD, who is Chair, Division of Space History at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, is the series' consultant. Part of the "Exploring the Galaxy" series for beginning readers, this will be popular with primary grade students. In addition to a Glossary, there is also an Index, a brief bibliography, and Internet sites accessed through FactHound. This series might also be useful for ESOL students who are just learning to read English. 2007, Pebble Plus/Capstone Press, $19.93. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780736867580
ISBN: 0736867589
Astronauts
Amy Levin
Each of the titles in this series follows a standard format. After the table of contents page there is a letter directed to parents or caregivers. It explains the purpose of these early readers which is to teach specific phonic sound and words that kids would normally encounter. The opposing page contains a Mother Goose rhyme, many of which will be known, but some may be more obscure and difficult for kids to relate to, but they do contain the phonic sounds emphasized in the book. The simple text is printed in large type and most of the page is filled with a crisp, clear colorful photograph. The books are available in three levels (A, B, and C) and the complexity increases as you move along in the alphabet with longer sentences, multi-syllabic words and a decrease in rebus support. At the end of each title there is a word list, game that reinforces the learning objective (instructions provided), and a very short bibliography of at least three age appropriate and fairly recent titles that complement and or expand on the focus of the text. There is also an index. Astronauts are shown undertaking ordinary tasks such as eating and sleeping as well as extraordinary tasks such as working outside the space station. Young kids may be inspired to learn more and become astronauts themselves. Some of the books for the younger readers are more interactive and ask questions about what was seen or learned. Part of the "Compass Point Phonics Readers" series, Set B. 2004, Compass Point, $13.26. Ages 6 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0756505038
ISBN: 9780756505035
Astronautas
Carmen Bredeson
For the beginning Spanish reader interested in space travel and science, Astronautas is a perfect start. This book provides a brief history of space travel (in the United States), what happens during a journey to space, and what it takes to become an astronaut. Full color photos provide detailed glimpses into this fascinating and challenging world, including pictures of spaceships (past and present), a space station, astronauts in training, and even a young girl in an astronaut suit. Other books in this series include: Despegue (Takeoff), El sistema solar (The Solar System), La Luna (The Moon), and Nave espacial (Spaceship). 2004, Children's Press/Scholastic, $17.00. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Michelle Negron Bueno (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0516244418
ISBN: 9780516244419
Disasters in Space Exploration
Gregory L. Vogt
Revised edition. In a moving introduction, Vogt explains that he updated his previous book to include the Columbia disaster in which seven people died and has dedicated this book to K.C., Kalbana Chawla, one of the astronaut scientist/engineers who perished and the only woman aboard that flight. Vogt discusses disasters, both with human death, and with death avoided, in four chapters. An early Soviet flight in 1969 suffered numerous mishaps and finally landed 2000 miles from where it was supposed to have landed, lucky to touch down at all. Various other smaller disasters such as a space suit malfunction, a near drowning upon reentry, and docking errors at the space station pale before the story of the Challenger disaster and the Columbia disintegration. Vogt conveys plenty of information about how flights work and what is accomplished for science, a gruesome page on what happens within the human body if a space suit fails, and plenty of optimistic discussion about the possible future of the space programs with a prediction that we will establish a permanent space station on the moon. Photographs vary with a few in color, most in black and white, and reproduction is fuzzy or murky on many, perhaps reflecting conditions under which they were taken. While the title suggests otherwise, Vogt points out how many successes the space program has had in this informative look at a program currently under scrutiny. An index, glossary, modest bibliography, and two websites support further research. 2003 (orig. 2001), Millbrook Press, $25.90. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0761328955
ISBN: 9780761328957
Exploring Outer Space
Isaac Asimov with revisions and updating by Richard Hantula
Published beginning in 1988, "Isaac Asimov's 21st Century Library of the Universe," an introduction to space for primary and middle readers, has now been updated for today's budding space enthusiasts. Information on topics is brief (each title comprises 30 pages of text), but well and clearly told, full of revelatory facts, and lavishly accompanied by photographs, drawings, and paintings. This title starts with a history of rockets and goes on to discuss the possibility of developing reusable spacecraft to save time and money. Satellites can help predict weather and map the earth, while space probes like the Soviet Luna 3 and NASA's Messenger have traveled to the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter and beyond, sending back much fascinating information. Naturally, not everything can be told in the limited space available, but young astronomers will find plenty to capture their attention and lead them to more research. The pictures are color photos or paintings--mostly vivid and appealing like the computer-generated image of Venus's surface showing a huge volcano and ancient lava flows. Look to the sidebars for more facts; for example, evidence that Mars probably once had an abundant water supply. Each book contains a "Fact File" (this one is a chart of space station data for Salyut, Skylab, Mir, and the International Space Station), a bibliography including websites and places to visit, a glossary, and an index. The thirty available titles make a winning investment in a useful and attractive space library. 2006 (orig. 1988), Gareth Stevens, $24.67. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0836839811
ISBN: 9780836839814
Final Frontier: Voyages into Outer Space
David Owen
Final Frontier: Voyages into Outer Space provides readers with a historical view of mankind's interest in understanding and visiting outer space. The book begins with "The Mapping of Space," which highlights the investigations of scientists from Copernicus and Kepler to Newton to explain the structure of space and Earth's place within it. The book then takes the reader on a historical field trip investigating the rise of the rocket age and launching of Sputnik. The book describes the development of the International Space Station and current missions. The author has done an outstanding job of using actual photographs of instruments, people involved in space exploration, and astronomical objects to highlight his easy-to-read text. Teachers may want to help younger readers distinguish between actual photographs and artist's illustrations to avoid any misconceptions. Of the many different books about space exploration available, this is one of the better organized ones; it's easy to read, provides enough information to generate an interest in the topic, and is accurate. Grades 5-8. Keywords: Aviation, History of Science And Technology, Planetary Sciences, Solar System, Aerospace. 2004, Firefly Books, 128p, $19.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Christine Royce (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 1552977757
ISBN: 1552977765
ISBN: 9781552977750
ISBN: 9781552977767
Flight into Orbit
David Jefferis & Mat Irvine
Humans in Space Series is a beautifully illustrated four volume set investigating all facets of space beyond the earth's atmosphere. The easy to read text is extended by detailed photos and illustrations that will turn the space novice into an informed student of the universe. Space terminology, folklore and historical facts are presented in sidebars. The bolded text allows fosters ease of navigation for the reader. Flight into Orbit: Life beyond the earth's atmosphere is a fascinating topic. Many young, and perhaps a few older, dream of becoming an astronaut and exploring the outer boundaries of our universe. This book brings those dreams alive. The history behind space stations and life aboard the current International Space Station occupied since the year 2000 are presented in great detail. Other topics dealt with are robot rockets, the space shuttle, the Russian space taxi - Soyuz, the responsibilities of a space scientist and the international effort that is required by many countries to man and supply the International Space Station. Also, presented are the tragic stories of failed missions like the 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia. It was destroyed as it re-entered the Earth's atmosphere killing all seven crew members. The sacrifices and challenges to astronauts as they help educate us to the world beyond our borders are detailed as well. Category: Non-Fiction Grades K-6. Thematic Links: Science and Technology; History of Space Travel. Resource Links Rating: E (Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!), Gr. 5 up. 2007, Crabtree Publishing, 32p. Illus., Hdbk. $$18.90 ea. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Anne Hatcher (Resource Links, December 2007 (Vol. 13, No. 2)).
ISBN: 9780778731016
ISBN: 9780778731153
ISBN: 0778731014
ISBN: 0778731154
Getting Ready for Space
Carmen Bredeson
Space has been in the news of late and the subject of space exploration and life in space is the stuff of fact and fiction. In this "Rookie Read-About Science" series, young readers will learn about astronauts and their space missions as well as what life is like in space. The astronauts train hard to learn to handle all of the equipment on the shuttle and in the space station. They practice what it feels like to float in space and spend time in simulators and working underwater. It is a challenge to live in a place where there is no gravity and everything floats. The pictures and text clearly show what the astronauts do to get prepared to eat, put on space suits and everything else that will be required in space. Each page of text is accompanied by full color photographs that match the text. The book concludes with a picture list of words that you now know. The final page contains an index and brief information about the author. 2003, Children's Press, $19.00. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0516269534
ISBN: 9780516269535
The Hazards of Space Travel: A Tourist's Guide
Neil F. Comins
As I write this review, the computers onboard the International Space Station have finally been revived. Computer failure is just one of The Hazards of Space Travel, the title of a fascinating book by astrophysicist Neil Comins. The book's subtitle is A Tourist's Guide, and in 28 short chapters the author discusses everything that could—and probably will—go wrong during trips within the inner solar system (extending out to Jupiter). To illustrate the effects of the many hazards facing a space tourist, almost every chapter includes an excerpt from the fictitious diary of Mack, a future explorer who must be one of the luckiest people on (or off) the Earth to have survived so many dangerous situations. The hazards are collected into seven groups according to their origin: dangers from the environment, from radiation, from impacts, from mechanical malfunctions, from space-induced illness, from stress and mental illness, and from readapting to Earth. There is a stream of surprising facts to keep the reader engaged. Here are two examples: (1) Before donning a low-pressure space suit, astronauts must breathe pure oxygen for several hours to avoid getting the bends. (2) Medicine may lose its potency in space due to radiation damage. The science behind these findings is accurately described at a popular level, and the book's generous bibliography tells the curious reader where to find more in-depth information. Space enthusiasts who dream of a planetary tour will be better prepared after reading this book, and the rest of us can better admire their bravery. Index. Highly Recommended, General Audience. 2007, Random House, xvi+253pp., $19.95. Ages Adult. Reviewer: Bradley W. Carroll (Science Books and Films (Vol. 43, No. 6))
ISBN: 9781400065974
ISBN: 1400065976
International Space Station
The quest for conquering space has helped to make former enemies friends. The International Space Station is now helping to bring many countries together. In 1971 the Russians successfully placed a space habitat into orbit. In 1973, the United States also launched its space habitat called Skylab. American astronauts broke a world record for manned space flight by living on the station for 171 days. 1986 was the year that Russia sent a second station named Mir into orbit. By the end of the 1980's the Russian government was falling apart and had no money to spend on space so by 1995 the two countries had decided to work together in space on the International Space Station. Since that time, many Russian and American astronauts have lived and worked together on the space station. There are now 16 countries that are involved in building parts for the space station. Some of these countries are Canada, Japan, Brazil and Russia. The astronauts work together to complete many experiments and try to learn how a human being can live for a prolonged period of time in weightlessness. The space station itself also has problems from aging. Parts need to be replaced often and it is an expensive experiment. Scientists believe, however, that the space station of the future will allow humans to begin a journey that will lead to the exploration of the universe. The end notes include a glossary and index. This is a good resource for classrooms and library media centers. 2004, Gale Publishing, $23.70. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Sue Reichard (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 1567118658
ISBN: 1410301893
ISBN: 9781567118650
ISBN: 9781410301895
The International Space Station
Franklin M. Branley
Illustrated by True Kelley
With an introduction by Scott Carpenter
The International Space Station explains this exciting scientific endeavor at a level that second graders can comprehend. This book is a great way to bring a current science topic to enthusiastic primary students. Although few of my students had heard of Scott Carpenter or the Mercury program (which ended long before they were born), they were impressed by his signed introduction. The book begins with a description of the December 1998 docking of the Russian part Zarya and the American part Unity. Good illustrations support accurate text, and a NASA website that readers can use to access more information is referenced. Each section of the station is described, and an overall diagram provides details of docking areas. The space station is compared to a 30-story building, which provides a perspective for young readers. The authors explain the suits and tools astronauts use in simple but accurate language. I know that my second graders enjoyed the book. During a play period I observed them creating a "space station" using chairs, books, and other classroom items. This book captured their imagination, because the space station will be a launch pad for exploring other planets. The book can be used to support National Science Education Standards (Content Standard A: Science as Inquiry, Content Standard D: Earth and Space Science, Content Standard E: Science and Technology, and Content Standard G: Science as a Human Endeavor) or to provide enrichment reading at this level. Grades K-4. Keywords: Aerospace, Current Trends, Engineering, Science Careers, Space. 2000, HarperCollins Publishers, 32p, $5.95. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Louise Stivers (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 0064452093
ISBN: 9780064452090
The International Space Station
Dana Meachen Rau
Welcome aboard the International Space Station. Join the American and Russian crew for a stay high above the Earth. Have fun floating around in microgravity, but make sure you do your daily exercises to keep your bones and muscles strong. From the "Our Solar System" series written to acquaint kids with "the amazing worlds in our planetary neighborhood and beyond," this volume takes readers on a tour of the International Space Station, begun in 1998 and scheduled to be completed in 2010. Learn a little of the history of space exploration. See how the International Space Station is put together. Meet the crew and find out what their daily life is like. Illustrated with full color photographs, the book includes a table of contents as well as a brief glossary, Did You Know? fun facts and an index. The Want to Know More page lists books, websites and places to visit if you want to learn more. 2005, Compass Point Books, $22.60. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen (Children's Literature).
The subjects of both of these books from the Our Solar System series cover activities that are very exciting to young people. The illustrations, which are mainly NASA "action" photographs centered upon astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and taking spacewalks, are attractive and increase the interest of the reader. Each book is quite comprehensive. The book titled Space Walks discusses the training of the astronauts for their extravehicular activities, various jobs they carry out while in orbit, and the complexity of their space suits and ends with a look toward future spacewalks, on the Moon and on Mars. The International Space Station includes a useful time line of major accomplishments in space, by both the United States and the Soviet Union. The need for space stations, the different components of the ISS, what the crew members do on board, and how they live are well covered. The physical and emotional challenges to long-term living in space are described, making the presentation balanced and realistic. One point that should be stressed more is that the station is not just "a huge construction site" (p.11), but has also been host to dozens of scientific experiments, which could have been described more fully and illustrated. A minor and unfortunately common flaw is the inconsistent use of capitalization. Also, some of the concepts, such as microgravity, would have benefited by being supplemented with discussion or supplementary material from an adult. The glossary and the index, as well as the guide for additional learning, are helpful aids. (From the Our Solar System Series.) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 3-6. 2005, Compass Point Books, 32pp., $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Marsha Freeman (Science Books and Films (Vol. 41, No. 5))
The International Space Station (ISS) is a joint effort of many countries that have invested in the future of earth. This book covers the basics of space exploration history, particularly focusing on the ISS. It tells how the astronauts prepare for life on the ISS, what life is actually like on the ISS, and how all the work gets done. The pictures are large, and the text is simple, yet challenging, for younger children. It includes an index and glossary. This book would be an excellent addition to any library. (Our Solar System). Nonfiction (629.44). Grades n/a. 2005, Compass Point Books, 32p., $16.95. Reviewer: Melissa Johnson (The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews, (Vol. 18, No. 2))
ISBN: 0756508525
ISBN: 9780756508524
The International Space Station: An Orbiting Laboratory
Devi Nipaul
After a brief introduction inviting young readers to experience space travel through this informative book, the author explains the history of space stations from the Russian Salyut to the U.S. Skylab launched in 1973. The Alpha space station, begun in 1998, is scheduled for completion in 2008. Nipaul's book explains, in short chapters, a typical day in the life of a space station astronaut, the architecture of the project, and the hoped-for research. A list of countries is included with the parts that each space agency has donated noted (the U.S. is overseeing the entire operation). Web sites as well as books and other resources are appended. Photographs enhance the easy-to-read text in this "High Interest" book. The International Space Station is part of the "Architectural Wonders" series of five books which cover the Brooklyn Bridge, the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Kansai International Airport, and the Chunnel. 2004, Children's Press, $22.00. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Augusta Scattergood (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0516240765
ISBN: 0516259083
ISBN: 9780516240763
ISBN: 9780516259086
Life Aboard a Space Station
Michael P. Belfiore
Beginning with the initial screening process for astronauts and ending with their regaining their earth legs upon return, the strenuous life of a space explorer is distinctly sequenced. Two years of training is summarized in the first chapter, and then the extraordinary thrills and challenges of arriving and living in space are explained in the remaining chapters. Unique topics and those awkward questions are factually addressed throughout the book. How do astronauts eat on board the space station? How do they attend to their toiletry needs, such as laundry, hair cuts, showers, and other concerns? How do their massive suits protect them from harsh conditions in space? Detailed diagrams and black and white photographs demonstrate the answers to many popular questions and offer interesting insights about space explorers. Some history of the space race is given, but primarily the author explains the practices of astronauts aboard their ship. Bold headings throughout the chapters and separate shaded passages provide guidance through the text, heavy with facts. With so much information, this non-fiction selection would be a good resource for science research. Other titles in the series "The Way People Live" include Life Among the Inca, Life During the Dust Bowl, Life in the Negro Baseball League, and Life Under the Taliban. 2005, Lucent Books/Thomson Corporation, $27.45. Ages 10 to 15. Reviewer: Kara Byrne (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1590184602
ISBN: 9781590184608
Life in Outer Space
Randy Littlejohn
This five-volume series (Life in Extreme Environments) examines life in extreme conditions such as high altitudes, outer space, the desert, the Arctic, and in deep oceans. Important and useful in each book are extensive lists of additional printed sources and also many addresses of sites such as government agencies, parks, and organizations where additional information on the topic might be available. Because Internet links change frequently, individual Web sites are not given. Instead, the publisher maintains a regularly updated online list of Web sources related to each topic, which students can access via the provided URL. The photo illustrations are excellent and well chosen to complement the texts. Each book has a different author, and the quality of the writing varies. In view of the cost of each book, purchase probably should be selective and based on specific curricular needs. Life in Outer Space is successful in giving a well-organized historical overview of space exploration, from the high altitude planes produced in the 1940s through the development of true space ships and space stations. The final chapter of the book speculates on the future of space exploration and what might be found in the solar system and further afield. (Life in Extreme Environments) VOYA CODES: 3Q 2P M J (Readable without serious defects; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 2004, Rosen, 64p.; Glossary. Index. Photos. Biblio. Further Reading., PLB $26.50.. Ages 11 to 15. Reviewer: Rayna Patton (VOYA, December 2004 (Vol. 27, No. 5)).
ISBN: 0823939898
ISBN: 9780823939893
Living and Working Aboard the International Space Station
Henry M. Holden
The International Space Station (ISS) is not always a safe place to work, especially for space-walking astronauts. They must constantly be on the lookout for debris whizzing past. A virtual garbage dump orbits Earth with flecks of paint, nuts, bolts, gloves, old satellites, even trash bags released from the Russian Mir space station. And because potentially dangerous dust-sized meteorites speed by at 17,500 miles per hour, the astronauts wear special suits and limit time spent outside the ISS. Just why are the astronauts at the space station anyway? One important reason is to conduct research that will allow scientists to study Earth's climate from outside the atmosphere to make more accurate weather forecasting possible. Research will also help determine the effects of air pollution on the environment. Exciting potential exists to use the ISS as a base camp for trips to the moon and the universe, and for it to become a docking station for future spacecraft. This book should appeal to the student's sense of adventure with accounts of the groundbreaking missions of such legendary astronauts as John Glenn and Sally Ride. With inclusion of the Apollo 13 and Challenger accidents, readers will get a glimpse into the courage, skill and sacrifice required of all astronauts. As with other books in the "MyReportLinks.com "series, each spread is shown bordered by toolbars as on a computer screen. Photographs, instructions for using the Web site, a list of other Internet sites and detailed bibliographic references make this an ideal choice for classroom or individual study. 2004, Enslow Publishers/MyReportLinks.com Books, $19.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Francine Thomas (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0766051684
ISBN: 9780766051683
Living in Space
David Baker and Heather Kissock
This look at Space Living is part of the "Exploring Space" series. From getting into Space to living on the International Space Station, this book explains everything a future astronaut would want to know. The large full-color photographs (many that come from NASA) are the main focus of each page. Readers can see what an astronaut's bed looks like and read about the astronaut's schedule--including sleep--while on a mission. There is also a section that explains all the various types of astronauts, what the qualifications to be an astronaut are, and what each specific job entails. This title would be a good starting point for any young reader who is interested in space living, astronauts, or NASA; however, this is only a starting point. The book tends to stick to more general information. The book also includes a quiz to test comprehension of what readers understood, a glossary, index, list of websites, a "daily schedule" for someone in space, and a bit on "further resources." Unfortunately, the "further resources" don't actually give "further resources"--the reader is just instructed to search by using "key" words to get further information at a local library. 2009, Weigl Publishers Inc, $26.00 and $9.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Joella Peterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781590367704
ISBN: 1590367707
Race into Space
Eric Arnold
Illustrated by Gary Torrisi
A brief history of space travel and exploration is catalogued in this beginning reader. From Babylon in 3000 B.C. to the modern International Space Station, discoveries, inventions, and adventurers abound. Children will gain knowledge of a variety of space-related topics in this colorful easy reader. Within six quick chapters, planets are described in great detail, along with the accomplishments of early space explorers. Biographic summaries of famous pioneers in the field from Ptolemy and Copernicus all the way to Yuri Gagarin and Alan Shepard are available to inspire young adventurers. A simple description of the space race guides readers through the process that led two countries into the great unknown. Many cultures are represented in the timeline of space discoveries. Vivid illustrations and remarkably clear and up-to-date photographs make this book very appealing. With only one to two paragraphs on each page, young readers can build reading confidence while learning about space. Helpful guides, including bold print, italics, and captions, assist students with improving comprehension. This book provides an excellent bridge to connect the disciplines of science and reading. It is step four in the "Step into Reading" series. 2004, Random House, $3.99. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Kara Byrne (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0375801952
ISBN: 0375901957
ISBN: 9780375801952
ISBN: 9780375901959
Satellites
David Baker and Heather Kissock
In this edition of the "Exploring Space" series, readers will learn about satellites and the roles that satellites play in everyday life. Satellites are used for a variety of reasons: communication satellites allow phone calls to be made around the world, weather satellites track weather patterns so that people can prepare for the weather in local areas, GPS units use satellites to help people find locations or destinations, Earth observation satellites help scientists study the Earth's surface, and so forth. Satellites come in many different shapes and sizes. The largest satellite, the International Space Station, allows astronauts to live while in space. With the cost of building and getting satellites to space, many scientists are working on creating smaller, more cost-effective satellites. This book is yet another good starting point for younger researchers who want to learn more about space and the role that satellites play while orbiting the Earth. Also included are a glossary, an index, a list of websites, a "daily schedule" of someone in space, a comprehension test for readers, and a list of "further resources," which is simply a list of "key" words for the reader to research at his or her local library. 2009, Weigl Publishers Inc, $26.00 and $9.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Joella Peterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781590367773
ISBN: 1590367774
Satellites
Ron Miller
Our technological society would be greatly hampered without our numerous communication satellites circling high overhead. In the last 50 years they have become indispensible parts of daily life. We make use of them in many ways, from transmitting news to guiding commercial fisheries and tracking our children. It's hard to imagine living without them. This book is part of the Space Innovations series, with information about satellites "from their primitive beginnings to the complex, indispensable machines that orbit the Earth today." It includes nine chapters, a glossary, sources for further information on satellites, and an index. The book is filled with photographs and illustrations of satellites and those who developed them. There is an extensive discussion of the Hubble Space Telescope and the amazing pictures it has produced, and there is information on a "space elevator," which is a potential way to reach space by riding a car tethered to a cable up to a space station. This is handsome book. The cover shows the International Space Station in orbit around the Earth. The material presented would add significantly to a discussion of technology, engineering, or space. Grades 6-8. 2008, Lerner Publications, 112p, $31.93. Ages 11 to 14. Reviewer: Donald Logsdon Jr. (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 9780822571544
Scientists at Work
Susan Ring
Begin early to encourage an interest in a career as a scientist. Books like this can provide great tools. Scientists at Work helps young readers understand the many types of jobs that are available in the field of science, both on land, under the sea, and in space. The pages are illustrated with photographs of various scientists at work and contain descriptions of their fields of specialization. Readers can develop an understanding of the differences between work in laboratories and in the field as they learn about research on diseases with a microscope, the study of plants and animals on land and under the sea, excavations to study our past, and work on the space station for our future. After each job is introduced, readers are challenged with the thought question, "If you were to become a scientist, what would you study?" This creates a great opening for discussion and further research, both in the library and in the real world. This engaging book may be the start of consideration of a goal for the child's future in science. Grades K-4. Keywords: Science Careers. 2006, Capstone Press, 16p, $15.93. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Dutchie Riggsby (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 0736858377
ISBN: 9780736858373
Space Disasters
Michael Woods and Mary B. Woods
As this book reveals, the history of space travel is unfortunately filled with disasters, as getting into space has proven to be both costly and incredibly complex. The authors use an outstanding array of photos to illustrate the shuttles and their crews, including brilliant photos of several launches. Poignant photos of astronauts in training also bring home the dangers these professionals face. As the book describes, there are three main types of errors--equipment failure, human failure, and those caused by space debris. The authors include disasters that have occurred around the world, not just in the U.S., further reminding readers that as other nations develop space travel, more disasters are likely. Even here in the U.S. as recently as 2003, the shuttle Columbia broke apart during re-entry. Even after such disasters, safety improvements are regrettably sometimes discarded due to cost, as well as the complexity of making changes to existing craft. However, as the authors report, NASA's goal is to finish the International Space Station using the existing shuttles, and then begin building new craft using improved materials and practices. Hopefully, the future of space travel will ultimately be safer, leading to a continued expansion of human knowledge. 2008, Lerner Publications Company/Lerner Publishing Group, $27.93. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Laura Ruttig (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780822567752
ISBN: 082256775X
Space Exploration
Connie Jankowski
Part of the "Mission: Science" series, this book addresses some of the biggest questions of our time. What is out there? Why do we want to go? How did we start exploring? Jankowski answers: "Astronomers once thought Earth was the center of the universe. Now we know that Earth is just a tiny part of a vast cosmos. ... And our solar system is a tiny part of something much bigger..." But it isn't the abstract cosmos that will appeal most, it is the concrete descriptions of what goes on in the International Space Station, the explanation of dangers in space, and the details about of how we are gaining in our powers of observation in space. Each section is illustrated with stunning photos and well-developed drawings. Sidebars and captions in the text describe the history of discovery. A fairly easy read for mid-graders, the book should fit in well with the new science standards that ask the students to explore more science on their own. Backmatter includes a science activity, glossary, timeline, additional resources and index. 2009, Compass Point Books, $26.10. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Amy S. Hansen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780756539580
ISBN: 0756539587
Space Junk
Steve Kortenkamp
Need a series of high-interest science books for low-level, reluctant readers? If so, this book is for you. The topic is space, and what early elementary child isn't interested in that? Each volume in this series is designed with a controlled vocabulary and short sentence structure. The reading level is grades 1-2, but the interest level would be greater at K-4. The photo text aides comprehension, and there is a short glossary at the back of the book. Also included is a great section called "Thinking Big," which asks questions to send the children on a quest for more information. The "Facthound" website is featured, as is "read more resources." Space Junk describes the types of debris orbiting the Earth and the hazards this junk presents to spacecraft and astronauts. The photos are dynamic, especially the one of an astronaut working on the space arm with the beautiful blue and white Earth as a backdrop. The first piece of space junk was Sputnik. Suit Sat is an empty spacesuit that was floated into space as an experiment and is still there. Earth's ring of space junk extends more than 23,000 miles from the planet and can be compared to the rings of other planets. A hole was made in space shuttle Atlantis by space junk traveling 30 times faster than a bullet. The International Space Station is often moved to avoid space junk tracked by telescopes and radar, which can detect pieces as small as an ant! Recently the Chinese blew up an old satellite and created millions more pieces of space junk. Included is a super picture of a rocket tank that fell back to Earth. Each two-page chapter has either a photo or diagram explaining the accompanying text. "Amazing But True" fun facts will really catch readers' interest. Pioneer 11, a space probe launched in 1973, is still drifting through the galaxy. It will pass by a distant star in just 3 million years. The Think Big section raises the possibility of using lasers to clean up space junk, but would this help or just create tinier pieces of junk? This is a high-interest book for the most reluctant reader and is highly recommended. Grades 1-3. 2008, Capstone Press, 24p, $21.26. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Jacqueline Pfeiffer (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 9781429612586
ISBN: 1429612584
Space Stations
Robin Kerrod
This entry in the six-volume "History of Space Exploration" details the many small steps it took to come to the point where the International Space Station is slated to be operable in 2008. The book explores visions of people living and working in space and actualities such as the first space station, the Soviet's Salyut 1 and their craft, Mir, to the shorter career of the US space station, Skylab. While no specific people are profiled in pocket biographies, photos show many aspects of living in outer space that will interest readers. Extensively captioned color and black-and-white photos, occasional diagrams, boxed material including pocket biographies, and quotes break up the page without overwhelming the several paragraphs per heading that convey the chronology. In addition to a timeline, a glossary, bibliography, places to visit, space camps, and websites plus an index are included. 2005, World Almanac, $22.50. Ages 11 to 16. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0836857100
ISBN: 0836857178
ISBN: 9780836857108
ISBN: 9780836857177
Space Stations
Steve Kortenkamp
The International Space Station (ISS) is a place for astronauts to live and work in space. The United States and fifteen other countries are working together to build the ISS. Engineers around the world are building pieces for the ISS and planes fly these pieces to Florida, where they are loaded onto spacecraft and sent by space shuttle to the ISS. These interesting facts are only some of the interesting things that young readers will learn from this attractive and appealing small nonfiction text about space stations. On every page there are full-color photographs, photodiagrams, and several lines of carefully written text. The sentences are short and direct, the vocabulary is controlled, and there are contextual definitions of unfamiliar vocabulary cleverly woven into interesting passages. After reading this informative book, children will be inspired to learn more about space stations and the amazing work of astronauts. This appealing and innovative text is one of six interesting books in a series called "Incredible Space," all of which are specifically designed for beginning, reluctant, and struggling readers. In or out of the elementary classroom, this interesting, easy-to-read nonfiction will teach and excite children about the fascinating frontier of space exploration and inspire young readers to read to learn more about this fascinating subject. 2009, Capstone Press, $22.65. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Susan Borges (Children's Literature)
Part of the "First Facts" series for young readers, this Solar System set has been updated for 2008. Each slim, square book presents the basics in six to eight chapters with bright color photos and drawings, adding extra interest with "Fun Facts" and "Amazing but True!" pages. While the text is brief and written in short sentences, the vocabulary and some concepts may be difficult for early readers unless they are already fans of outer space. This title introduces space stations as places where people are learning to live and work in space. The author describes three of the earliest stations: Salyut, Skylab, and Mir. The first in space, Russia's Salyut (1971), stayed in orbit for twenty-three days; the first American space station, Skylab, was damaged on takeoff and had to be repaired while in orbit, though it survived for six years. Next came Russia's Mir (1986), built in nine different sections. When Mir started to have problems, the U.S. and Russia joined with fourteen other nations to design the International Space Station. Later pages describe astronauts working on the station, overcoming problems, and doing experiments; they expect to finish in 2010. "Amazing but True!" informs young astronomers that a giant robot arm called Canadarm2 is being used to transport astronauts around the space station. Each book has the usual glossary, bibliography, and index; both web sites listed by FactHound (recommended as a source for Internet sites) are appropriate (esaKIDS is especially interactive and fun). 2008, Capstone, $21.26. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781429600644
ISBN: 1429600640
Space Tourism
Steve Kortenkamp
This wonderful easy-to-read book about space tourism is the best title in the six set "Incredible Space" series. The information contained in this small appealing title is fascinating, engaging, and cleverly presented. Young readers will be intrigued to learn about the concept of space tourism, and they will be fascinated to know that perhaps one day they will have an opportunity to be a space tourist! There is a photograph of Anousheh Ansari who became the first female space tourist in 2006. She is pictured in a full astronaut suit, seated in a space craft, headed for the International Space Station (ISS). Her mission was to study the germs that grow inside the ISS. Young readers will learn that space tourists may one day stay in a space hotel and there is a photodiagram of a space hotel with the explanation that space hotels will not need floors or ceilings because there is no gravity and tourists will simply float! On each page there are full color photographs, photodiagrams, and incredible facts that help explain the text and aid in comprehension for young readers. Important subject specific vocabulary words are printed in red ink and in the back of the book, and there is a glossary which contains all these important words. Young children interested in learning about space tourism will enjoy this engaging text and will be excited and inspired to learn about the space tourism of the future. Written in simple, short sentences that contain controlled vocabulary, young readers will enjoy this series in or out of their elementary classroom. Readers of this exciting, easy-to-read nonfiction will learn about the space tourism and yearn to learn more abut all aspects of space exploration and discovery, while sharpening their skills as capable and enthusiastic independent readers. 2009, Capstone Press, $22.65. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Susan Borges (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781429623247
ISBN: 1429623241
Space Walks
Dana Meachen Rau
The subjects of both of these books from the Our Solar System series cover activities that are very exciting to young people. The illustrations, which are mainly NASA "action" photographs centered upon astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and taking spacewalks, are attractive and increase the interest of the reader. Each book is quite comprehensive. The book titled Space Walks discusses the training of the astronauts for their extravehicular activities, various jobs they carry out while in orbit, and the complexity of their space suits and ends with a look toward future spacewalks, on the Moon and on Mars. The International Space Station includes a useful time line of major accomplishments in space, by both the United States and the Soviet Union. The need for space stations, the different components of the ISS, what the crew members do on board, and how they live are well covered. The physical and emotional challenges to long-term living in space are described, making the presentation balanced and realistic. One point that should be stressed more is that the station is not just "a huge construction site" (p.11), but has also been host to dozens of scientific experiments, which could have been described more fully and illustrated. A minor and unfortunately common flaw is the inconsistent use of capitalization. Also, some of the concepts, such as microgravity, would have benefited by being supplemented with discussion or supplementary material from an adult. The glossary and the index, as well as the guide for additional learning, are helpful aids. (From the Our Solar System Series.) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 3-6. 2005, Compass Point Books, 32pp., $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Marsha Freeman (Science Books and Films (Vol. 41, No. 5)).
ISBN: 0756508517
ISBN: 9780756508517
What Do Astronauts Do?
Carmen Bredeson
What do Astronauts Do? provides young readers (with some adult help) with a good first introduction to astronauts. In particular, they will need help with some of the vocabulary-for example, "laboratory" and "instruments." However, their adult helpers should be aware that some of the topics may make them uneasy. Some examples include the following: "Astronauts wear diapers during liftoff" and "How do astronauts go to the bathroom?" Of course, these are topics people are curious about and will no doubt be very interesting to the young readers. This book is very richly illustrated and provides accurate information, fun facts, definitions, and a list of books and Web sites readers can go to for more information. (I Like Space! Series.) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 1-2. 2008, Enslow, 32pp., $22.60. Ages 6 to 8. tevv Thomas A. Lesser (Science Books and Films (Vol. 44, No. 5)).
ISBN: 9780766029422
ISBN: 0766029425
Working in Space
Steve Kortenkamp
Students who are interested in becoming astronauts will discover what kind of work is done in space when they read this book. Beginning with the cover, excellent bright photos capture the attention of the readers. Fun facts scattered through the book include extra information. One such fact lets readers know that the space station's robotic arm works like an unfolding inchworm and another tells that astronauts wear white suits because white is cooler. The book contains eight short chapters made up of bold headings, large print and only a few sentences per page. The book tells about the astronauts who are building the space station, astronauts carrying out experiments, and even how astronauts play in space. This book is one from "The Solar System" series. As with the others, it contains an "Amazing but True!" page, a "Think Big!" page, a glossary, resources and index. It will work well to supplement science and career lessons. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury (Children's Literature). 2008, Capstone Press, $21.26. Ages 6 to 8.
ISBN: 9781429612616
ISBN: 1429612614
For reviews from features for previous year, click here
Updated 11/24/2009
To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.
If you're interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.