Description

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Journey to the farthest corners of the universe in this visually stunning coffee-table atlas by the former chief historian of NASA

300 maps and illustrations tell the incredible story of the past, present, and future of the universe and space exploration

Navigate the Solar System, the Milky Way, and beyond with 300 magnificent charts, illustrations, and photographs. This large-format atlas makes the immense universe feel more intimate, with striking full-page spreads and engaging text.

Former chief historian of NASA Roger D. Launius offers important perspective on the trajectory of space exploration and its achievements, covering topics like ancient ideas of the cosmos; the evolution of galaxies; the search for extraterrestrial intelligence; investigating the inner and outer solar system; and human migration to the Moon and to Mars. The book includes:

• Full-page and full-spread historical, scientific, cosmology, and specially commissioned maps.
• Amazing photos from NASA's archives and stunning new artwork
• Biographical sidebars highlighting important people involved in the search for knowledge about the universe, from Galileo to Nancy Grace Roman to Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar.

With the growing market for space tourism, space exploration verges on a new era, and this book looks toward the future to include conceptions of futuristic space activities. The marvelous collection of maps provide visual reference to better understand science and humanity's place in the universe. Absorbing and exquisitely detailed, Smithsonian Atlas of Space is a showstopping journey through the cosmos.

About the Author

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ROGER D. LAUNIUS served as chief historian of NASA between 1990 and 2002 and is a recipient of the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and the Exceptional Achievement Medal. From NASA, he moved to the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, where he served most recently as Associate Director for Collections and Curatorial Affairs. He has written or edited more than 30 books on aerospace history, including The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration, Apollo's Legacy, and NASA Space Shuttle: 40th Anniversary.