Book Review: Space Atlas

Space Atlas

by: James Trefil

Thank you to TLC book tours and National Geographic for my free copy of Space Atlas: Mapping The Universe and Beyond.

Publisher Synopsis:
Space Atlas combines updated maps, lavish photographs, and elegant illustrations to chart the solar system, the universe, and beyond. For space enthusiasts, science lovers, and star gazers, here is the newly revised edition of National Geographic’s enduring guide to space, with a new introduction by American hero Buzz Aldrin.

In this guided tour of our planetary neighborhood, the Milky Way and other galaxies, and beyond, detailed maps and fascinating imagery from recent space missions partner with clear, authoritative scientific information. Starting with the sun and moving outward into space, acclaimed science writer and physicist James Trefil illuminates each planet, the most important moons, significant asteroids, and other objects in our solar system. Looking beyond, he explains what we know about the Milky Way and other galaxies–and how we know it, with clear explanations of the basics of astrophysics, including dark matter and gravitational waves. For this new edition, and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his moonwalk, astronaut and American hero Buzz Aldrin offers a new special section on Earth’s moon and its essential role in space exploration past and future.

Review:
You guys...this book is gorgeous! It is coffee table eye candy! My husband and I love outer space and already own several large books of space images, but this is by far my favorite. For me, this book would be totally worth the price for the images alone. There are tons of gorgeous space photographs and illustrations.  That being said, there is a lot of well researched information that is provided in a reader-friendly format. This isn't a book that I'd necessarily think of as one you sit and read cover to cover, but rather one that you'd browse and look around at your leisure. With the holidays fast approaching, it is definitely one I'd recommend for any space nerds on your list.  My husband and I have already enjoyed perusing this edition and I'm sure my son will love to look through it as he grows up as well.