PHILIP'S ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SPACE takes the reader on a beautifully illustrated and informative journey - from the earliest beginnings of rockets and artificial satellites, through the first manned space missions, and on to the latest space probes venturing out into the farthest reaches of the Solar System and the observatories in space that are delving deeper into the origins of the Universe. Author Paul Sutherland describes the early attempts to build rockets in order to propel artificial satellites into Earth orbit for the first time, and examines the difficulties that were overcome in order to launch humans into orbit and on to the Moon. In time, these advances in technology led to the construction and operation of the International Space Station. Much of our knowledge of the Solar System has been derived from space probes that have visited distant planets and sent back images and data streams for analysis. The Sun and the planets are examined in turn, reflecting on the orbiters and landers that have provided a wealth of information. Looking beyond our Solar System to distant galaxies and other deep-sky objects, Paul describes the missions and space observatories that are working to expand our knowledge of black holes, supernova remnants and gamma-ray bursts, as well as the discovery of other planetary systems. Suitable for ages 12 to adult, Philip's Essential Guide to Space is illustrated in full colour throughout.

Author Biography

Paul Sutherland has been a professional journalist for nearly 40 years including more than 25 years on leading popular Fleet Street titles including the Daily Mirror, Today and The Sun, which dubbed him 'The Sun Spaceman'. He has had a keen interest in spaceflight and astronomy for even longer. Paul contributes regularly to the BBC Sky at Night magazine and has authored books on astronomy and advised on others. Paul has long been a supporter of the Society for Popular Astronomy, including long spells editing its journal Popular Astronomy. He is also a member of the British Astronomical Association, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and belongs to the Association of British Science Writers.