Who Owns the Moon? And Other Conundrums of Exploring and Using Space

What happens if a country leaves debris in Earth’s orbit? Can countries claim pieces of outer space? Levinson (Free to Learn) and Swanson (Up Periscope!) answer these questions and more in this approachable work about the ethical and political challenges surrounding cosmic exploration. Beginning with the early days of the space race, the creators discuss the United Nations’ passing of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty—formally known as the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies—which introduced myriad laws regarding the cosmos that became the foundation for contemporary accords. Some such agreements include the prohibiting of nuclear weapons in space and the Moon Treaty, which declared the moon “the common heritage” of humankind. Sparse text details how countries sought legal ways to control not just the ownership of space but the behavior conducted and conflict occurring there as well. Photographs, scientific graphics, and factual insets abound in this simplified depiction of complex topics that encourages readers to ask their own questions about international space travel and, perhaps, pursue answers while forging intergalactic careers themselves. Ages 12–up. (Jan.)