First Big Book of Space

Synopsis

This beautiful book is the latest addition to the National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book series. These colourful pages will introduce young children to the wonders of space, with colourful illustrations by David Aguilar and simple text that is perfect for beginning readers or for reading aloud.

The book will explain basic concepts of space, beginning with what is most familiar to kids and expanding out into the universe.

Chapters include:
  Chapter 1 focuses on the Earth, moon, and sun.
  Chapter 2 introduces kids to the other planets in our solar system.
  Chapter 3 explains other objects in our solar system, such as dwarf planets, comets, and asteroid belts.
  Chapter 4 voyages even farther afield, touching on concepts such as the universe, the Milky Way, stars, galaxies, and black holes.
  The last chapter delves into space exploration: humans on the moon, spaceships, the International Space Station, etc.

Summary

Chapter 1: Our Solar System

* Explores the planets, Sun, and moons that make up our solar system.
* Example: "Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system, with a diameter of about 86,881 kilometers (54,000 miles), and has a distinctive Great Red Spot."

Chapter 2: Stars and Galaxies

* Discusses the different types of stars, galaxies, and the vastness of space.
* Example: "Our Sun is a medium-sized yellow star classified as a G-type main sequence star."

Chapter 3: The History of Space Exploration

* Provides a timeline of significant events and accomplishments in space exploration.
* Example: "In 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission."

Chapter 4: The Future of Space Exploration

* Speculates on potential future developments and goals in space travel and research.
* Example: "Space agencies are actively planning missions to return humans to the Moon and send crewed expeditions to Mars."

Chapter 5: Space Technology

* Explains the various technologies used in space exploration, such as rockets, satellites, and space stations.
* Example: "The International Space Station is a modular spacecraft in low Earth orbit, serving as a scientific research platform for astronauts from different countries."

Chapter 6: Space Science

* Introduces scientific concepts related to space, including astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology.
* Example: "Scientists use telescopes and other instruments to study the chemical composition, temperature, and motion of stars and galaxies."

Chapter 7: Space and Culture

* Explores the cultural impact and inspiration inspired by space exploration and astronomy.
* Example: "The Star Trek franchise has had a significant influence on popular culture, popularizing the concept of space travel and alien civilizations."

Chapter 8: The Solar System in Detail

* Provides more detailed information about each planet, its moons, and other celestial bodies in our solar system.
* Example: "Saturn is known for its iconic ring system, which consists of countless ice particles ranging in size from tiny dust grains to large chunks of ice."

Chapter 9: The Stars and Galaxies in Detail

* Explores different types of stars, their life cycles, and the vastness of galaxies.
* Example: "Neutron stars are extremely dense remnants of collapsed massive stars, with diameters of only about 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles)."

Chapter 10: The History and Future of Space Exploration in Detail

* Provides a comprehensive account of past missions, milestones, and future plans in space exploration.
* Example: "The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is an innovative and reusable launch system that has significantly reduced the cost of access to space."