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Dazzling, must-read books about space
Shoot for the stars with this mix of fiction and non-fiction books about space exploration.
Published on May 28, 2024
The Right Stuff
Tom WolfeMore about getting to space than exploring space, Wolfe’s book focuses on stories from the pilots and their wives, and includes stories of the test pilots who paved the way for the Mercury Seven. And if you want a testament to how powerful books can be, know that this Wolfe work inspired Scott Kelly to become an astronaut (Kelly commanded three International Space Station Expeditions).
Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void
Mary RoachWhat happens when you can’t stop laughing in space? Roach will find out for you as she studies how all the human bodily functions (particularly the gross ones) continue to work in space flight. The answers are out of this world.
The Martian Chronicles
Ray BradburyThough it may be labeled science fiction, Bradbury’s beloved collection of short stories chronicling humanity’s attempts to colonize Mars is nothing short of pure poetry. This isn’t your typical action-packed space opera with laser beams and battling spaceships. Rather, it’s a deep examination of the human condition and all of its inherent flaws and dangers, that will persist no matter what planet we’re on.
Apollo 13
Jim LovellAmerica’s love affair with space has been filled with successes and tragedies. One of the most memorable space-related events took place in April 1970, as three astronauts embarked on the country’s fifth trip to the moon. When an explosion disabled oxygen and power, the mission took a different course, beating the odds and safely splashing down on Earth. Astronaut Lovell shares his account of that harrowing mission, while giving insight into the country’s fascination with space travel.
The End of Everything: (Astrophysically Speaking)
Katie MackIf something has a beginning, must it also have an ending? When it comes to the world as we know it, astrophysicist Mack thinks so. In a thought-provoking and strangely enjoyable manner, the theoretical cosmologist (i.e., an incredibly smart person who gets paid to ponder larger-than-life questions and theories) explores the possibility of the end of the universe and five different ways it might come about.
The Red Limit: The Search for the Edge of the Universe
Timothy FerrisFerris’ award-winning science book covers major breakthroughs made in the 20th century and serves as a solid introduction to the fields of cosmology and astronomy. With accessible language and clear prose, Ferris excels at taking complex theories and ideas and breaking them down for lay readers.
Women in Space: 23 Stories of First Flights, Scientific Missions, and Gravity-Breaking Adventures
Women in Space: 23 Stories of First Flights, Scientific Missions, and Gravity-Breaking Adventures
Karen Bush GibsonFerris’ award-winning science book covers major breakthroughs made in the 20th century and serves as a solid introduction to the fields of cosmology and astronomy. With accessible language and clear prose, Ferris excels at taking complex theories and ideas and breaking them down for lay readers.
Space Is Cool as F*ck
Kate HowellsThe use of profanity in book titles is overdone, in my honest opinion. But you know what? Space *is* cool as f*ck and Howells, an education specialist for the Planetary Society, shows just how cool it is in this high-level guide that explains what the heck is going on in space and why we should all care. Plus, there’s an interview with Bill Nye the Science Guy. Need I say more?
Red Mars
Kim Stanley RobinsonThe science fiction genre is filled with books about the colonization of planets. And then there’s “Red Mars,” the first of the “Mars” trilogy that takes readers on a wondrous journey through the settlement and terraforming of the fourth planet from the sun. Not only does Robinson cover the scientific aspects of planetary colonization, but he also dives deep into the political, ecological, psychological, and moral aspects of such a tremendous feat.
Carrying the Fire: 50th Anniversary Edition
Michael CollinsWhile Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were busy making history by landing on the moon, one astronaut stayed behind on the command module, carrying out an equally important, if oft-overlooked, role. Frank, self-deprecating, and honest, Collins details the risks and rewards of a career in space exploration and shares profound insight into his experience of being part of one of humanity’s greatest achievements. Highly engaging and filled with an infectious passion for science, Collins’ autobiography is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the behind-the-scenes operations of life as an astronaut.
Chasing New Horizons: Inside the Epic First Mission to Pluto
Alan SternBehind every great accomplishment is a group of people who are willing to overcome any obstacle, no matter how long it takes. Take it from Stern and Grinspoon, two scientists involved in the 10-year voyage to Pluto ( which doesn’t even count the decades of politicking and mountains of bureaucratic red tape they had to hurdle to get the mission cleared for takeoff). This is the inspiring tale of the New Horizons space probe, the first of its kind to reach Pluto.
Cosmos: A Personal Voyage
Carl SaganLike “The Martian Chronicles,” Sagan proves that science and poetic prose can go hand in hand. Regarded by many as one of the best — if not THE best — astronomy books of all time, “Cosmos” will dazzle you with the mysteries of the universe and make you ponder how much we know, *really* know, about the nature of our reality.
What Is Life Really Like In Space? – We Talk To Astronaut Nicole Stott: Ever wondered what it’s like to live in space? Star Stuff sits down with Astronaut Nicole Stott to ask the important questions, from how living in space affected her art, […]
What Is Life Really Like In Space? – We Talk To Astronaut Nicole Stott: Ever wondered what it’s like to live in space? Star Stuff sits down with Astronaut Nicole Stott to ask the important questions, from how living in space affected her art, […]
Star StuffEngineer, artist, astronaut. Nicole Stott carries many titles, chief among them being the 52nd woman to fly to space. She answers listeners’ burning questions about what it’s like to live in space (she spent three months on the International Space Station) and reflects on her experience as a whole. She sums it up in one word: “surreal.”
Base Ten: A Novel
Maryann LesertA smart and entirely relatable debut novel following astrophysicist Jillian, who embodies every woman who has ever been torn between her career and her roles as a partner and mother. After an accidental pregnancy, Jillian’s dreams of becoming an astronaut fall to the wayside. However, even 10 years later, the stars still call to her and she embarks on a journey to rediscover her passion and herself.
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Margot Lee ShetterlyAstronauts get much of the glory, but there are tons of scientists behind the scenes that make space flight possible. And Shetterly’s blockbuster book sheds light on those who have gotten the least credit for their critical work: the Black female mathematicians whose calculations were critical to winning the Space Race in a still-segregated America.