Smithsonian Atlas of Space
A Map to the Universe from the Big Bang to the Future
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Journey to the farthest corners of the universe in this visually stunning coffee-table atlas by the former chief historian of NASA
300 maps and illustrations tell the incredible story of the past, present, and future of the universe and space exploration
Navigate the Solar System, the Milky Way, and beyond with 300 magnificent charts, illustrations, and photographs. This large-format atlas makes the immense universe feel more intimate, with striking full-page spreads and engaging text.
Former chief historian of NASA Roger D. Launius offers important perspective on the trajectory of space exploration and its achievements, covering topics like ancient ideas of the cosmos; the evolution of galaxies; the search for extraterrestrial intelligence; investigating the inner and outer solar system; and human migration to the Moon and to Mars. The book includes:
- Full-page and full-spread historical, scientific, cosmology, and specially commissioned maps.
- Amazing photos from NASA's archives and stunning new artwork
- Biographical sidebars highlighting important people involved in the search for knowledge about the universe, from Galileo to Nancy Grace Roman to Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar.
With the growing market for space tourism, space exploration verges on a new era, and this book looks toward the future to include conceptions of futuristic space activities. The marvelous collection of maps provide visual reference to better understand science and humanity's place in the universe. Absorbing and exquisitely detailed, Smithsonian Atlas of Space is a showstopping journey through the cosmos.
About this Author
ROGER D. LAUNIUS served as chief historian of NASA between 1990 and 2002 and is a recipient of the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and the Exceptional Achievement Medal. From NASA, he moved to the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, where he served most recently as Associate Director for Collections and Curatorial Affairs. He has written or edited more than 30 books on aerospace history, including The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration, Apollo's Legacy, and NASA Space Shuttle: 40th Anniversary.
Reviews
BOOKLIST
"This book entices readers with alluring pictures--most from NASA's collection--and will capture their attention for hours. [...] The pictures are stunning, and the narrative is generally jargon free and conversational. Sidebars are thumbnail biographies of relevant luminaries. Well suited for visual learners looking for an introduction to our contemporary understanding of the universe."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"Launius gives young readers and researchers the knowledge needed to keep the pace in the space race. [...] Importantly, Launius shares 'ideas of the universe' with young researchers with global, non-Western histories of space, including, for example, summaries of Mayan and Babylonian thought. In addition to the gorgeous images and illustrations, short biographies of important 'space' people offer readers human faces, experiences, and moments of connection while exploring the vastness and mystery of space. VERDICT While this is a fun book to page through, get lost in, and find inspiration, the careful organization and index welcome readers across grade levels to explore and study the worlds we know and the ones we don't know--yet."
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