(3) YA Cutting-Edge Science and Technology series. This overview of space exploration emphasizes the current questions that scientists wish to answer about space. The book covers the history of rocket engineering; a catalog of past missions, including those involving humans; and consideration of the privatization of space exploration. Kruesi gives attention to the technological challenges that still need to be addressed. Photographs of space technologies and profiles of the scientists are included. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) YA Cutting-Edge Science and Technology series. This astronomy survey shows how astronomers past and present examine the electromagnetic radiation that reaches the earth (or its orbit) to determine the characteristics of the universe and the bodies within it. The technological advancements in telescopes and computer power help scientists to investigate such topics as exoplanets and dark matter. Photographs of space bodies, equipment, and the scientists profiled are included. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(4) 4-6 Searchlight Books: What's Cool About Science? series. With less of a cutting-edge focus than others in the series, this introduction to space exploration gives brief, terminology-filled descriptions for topics in the expansive categories of humans in space, robot spacecraft, and telescopes. The text skips from topic to topic quickly, profiling selected space-science achievements in broad statements with little detail; images of astronauts, planets, and spacecraft are integrated into the discussion. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford