This is rocket science : the true story of the risk-taking scientists who figured out ways to explore beyond Earth

..three, two, one... we have lift-off! From the award-winning author of Are We Alone? comes a title to propel young imaginations far into space.

This Is Rocket Science explores the past, present, and future of space travel. The compelling text-vetted by NASA scientists-is a combination of history, science, human drama, and future challenges.

Readers learn how fireworks in ancient China developed into the fire arrows used by Genghis Khan; we meet Sir Isaac Newton, Jules Verne, H.G.

Wells, and learn how their imaginations shaped rocketry.

We revisit the era of Sputnik, the satellite that launched a superpower space race, ending with moonwalks and a rendezvous in space.

Finally we look forward to the future challenges of Mars and beyond.

We also get a sneak peek at new technologies like space elevators, solar sails, ion propulsion, and more.