National Geographic Encyclopedia of Space

National Geographic has always guided readers to remote regions of the world. Now it goes out of this world, with this lavish guide to the near and far reaches of the universe. Essays contributed by academics, NASA staffers and notables such as Robert Wilson (who along with Arno Penzias at Bell Labs in 1964 discovered the first evidence of the Big Bang) discuss deep space, our solar system and space travel. There are also sections on using space to study Earth and on the military and intelligence uses of space. The essays in general are readable and show the implications of astronomy for life on Earth, such as the impact of solar flares on the weather. Introductory sections explain central concepts and terms: for instance, one gives a description of the Sun's history and mass, and defines what a sunspot is. Still, this volume will suit astronomy enthusiasts better than total novices. Everyone, however, can enjoy the gorgeous photos, such as the dramatic satellite photo of a hurricane approaching the U.S.