The emerging asteroid mining industry has extremely ambitious intentions. It is within the realm of possibility that their work may usher in a change in global economics as profound as the Industrial Revolution. As may be expected, press reports dealing with asteroid mining have been numerous, ranging in scope from short and breezy to broad and serious, and in quality from accurate to impressionistic to simply uninformed. There is good reason to be curious about what may be the biggest game-changer in human economic history. And there is good reason to look closely at the underlying science and engineering that form the foundation of this work.

The author of A Space Traveller’s Guide to the Solar System shares 101 fascinatingly fun facts sure to change how you see outer space—and Earth. Did you know a compost heap generates as much energy as the Sun? Or that dung beetles use the Milky Way to navigate? Maybe you have not been into space but if you have then you will know that astronauts have feet as soft as babies! 101 Facts You Didn't Know About Space takes you on a wild journey around the Universe bringing you facts galore. Whether you are a space enthusiast or a newcomer you will find plenty of facts in here to keep you amused and entertained. “A good read, and there’s something for all levels of space enthusiast, from young adults to more experienced readers.” —BBC Sky at Night (UK) “Everything is explained brilliantly, the illustrations are inspirational and truly breathtaking, and, if you ask me, this is the way science should be taught in schools . . . . With this excellent book, we will at least be prepared for what we find when we eventually do break free of our solar system and find our destiny in the stars! Exceptional!” —Books Monthly

A unique, wide-ranging examination of asteroid exploration and our future in space Human travel into space is an enormously expensive and unforgiving endeavor. So why go? In this accessible and authoritative book, astrophysicist Martin Elvis argues that the answer is asteroid exploration, for the strong motives of love, fear, and greed. Elvis's personal motivation is one of scientific love--asteroid investigations may teach us about the composition of the solar system and the origins of life. A more compelling reason may be fear--of a dinosaur killer-sized asteroid hitting our planet. Finally, Elvis maintains, we should consider greed: asteroids likely hold vast riches, such as large platinum deposits, and mining them could provide both a new industry and a funding source for bolder space exploration. Elvis explains how each motive can be satisfied, and how they help one another. From the origins of life, to "space billiards," and space sports, Elvis looks at how asteroids may be used in the not-so-distant future.

""Space Meteors 101"" offers a captivating exploration of meteors, asteroids, and their potential impact on Earth. This comprehensive guide delves into the origin and composition of meteors, their behavior in Earth's atmosphere, and their significance in shaping our planet's past and future. The book presents a compelling argument that understanding these celestial objects is crucial for scientific advancement and planetary defense. Readers will discover intriguing facts about meteors, such as their role in potentially influencing Earth's climate patterns and their possible contribution to the origin of life on our planet. The book draws on a wide range of scientific research, including data from NASA's Center for Near Earth Object Studies and findings from the 2013 Chelyabinsk meteor event. By using analogies and real-world examples, it makes complex physics concepts accessible to both science enthusiasts and general readers. Progressing through three main sections, the book covers: 1. Fundamental concepts 2. Atmospheric behavior of meteors 3. Potential impacts on Earth It balances academic rigor with a conversational style, offering readers a solid foundation in meteor science while inspiring a newfound appreciation for the cosmic drama unfolding in the night sky.

A comprehensive, up-to-date survey of our knowledge of the Universe beyond Earth, for general readers and astronomy enthusiasts.

"This ... atlas takes readers through maps of the solar system, the Milky Way, and deep space, giving them a close look at and locations of planets, supernovas, and other universes. Sky maps will help kids spot these objects in the night sky and maps of planets and our solar system give the kind of ... detail that National Geographic is known for"--Amazon.com.

The perfect starter astronomy guide to night viewing. 101 Objects to See in the Night Sky is a fun and practical guide to identifying and observing 101 of the most fascinating and exciting sights in the northern night sky. Designed for newcomers to astronomy, the book explains what can be seen using the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope. In the book, professional astronomer Robin Scagell shows the novice astronomer where to look in the sky to see a particular object, or group of objects or sights. They may be a planet, its rings or satellites, a series of lunar craters, a constellation, asteroids, meteors, a nebula, galaxy or star cluster, for example. He describes the object in detail and gives observing tips to improve viewing skills. Informative "Where to find it" instructions and "What you'll see" explanations for each object give night sky viewers an extra hand. A concise "fact file" is provided for each object, and readers can award themselves "points" for their skill in finding the object, with higher scores given for spotting the night sky's more elusive or hard-to-see features. The book is organized by season -- winter, spring, summer, fall -- with an opening section on "things you need to know," such as marker objects (for example, Sirius, the brightest star in winter's night sky) and how to use them to search beyond. It also covers such topics as asteroids and dwarf planets, noctilucent clouds, northern lights, the International Space Station, sunspots, eclipses and much more. 101 Objects to See in the Night Sky is an ideal guide for astronomy novices and classrooms.

Readers will get an in-depth look at the critical components that make up space. Alongside engaging photos, readers will learn about planets, the moon, the sun, stars, asteroids, comets, meteoroids, galaxies, the universe, and the exciting field of space exploration. Features include a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Abdo Reference is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Although a mere speck in the vast cosmos, humans have managed to piece together an incredible understanding of the Universe. Discover its magic and unravel its mysteries with this book. Starting from a launchpad on Earth, set off on an enthralling journey to the Solar System, the Milky Way, and finally to the very edges of the known Universe. Space: From Earth to the Edge of the Universe features fascinating facts, an engaging narrative, and rich photographs that help you comprehend the vastness of this world that we exist in. The book has been divided into seven chapters covering intriguing concepts such as spacewalking, getting close to the Sun, and the Planetary Nebulae. Detailed illustrations and explanatory artworks give you a deep insight into the limits of galaxies, what lies in our neighboring worlds, the rings and moons of other planets, and much more. Discover the technology and spacecrafts behind the extraordinary journeys undertaken by astronauts, study the planets, asteroids, and galaxies and immerse yourself in the important space discoveries of our time. Featuring the latest spectacular images from NASA and other sources, Space will take you on the expedition of a lifetime.