The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet: Everything You Need to Know, from Training to Re-entry

by Terry Virts

Overview

In this exciting book, a former NASA astronaut inspires the next generation of space travelers with answers to all kids' questions on how people become astronauts, how they prepare for space travel, and what it's like to live and work in space.

A kid's guide to leaving the planet from someone who's done it! Former astronaut Terry Virts guides readers through the practical elements of becoming an astronaut, along with the wonders (and challenges!) of space travel. With insider information on training, piloting a ship, and working in space, readers and aspiring astronauts will be inspired to start their own journey to the stars. This practical guide is full of valuable wisdom and insight that will guide the astronaut candidates of tomorrow!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781523520756
Publisher:	Workman Publishing Company
Publication date:	04/11/2023
Sold by:	Hachette Digital, Inc.
Format:	eBook
File size:	60 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.
Age Range:	10 - 18 Years

About the Author

Colonel Terry Virts earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from the United States Air Force Academy in 1989, and a master of aeronautical science degree in aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Selected by NASA in 2000, he was the pilot of STS-130 mission aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour. In March 2015, Virts assumed command of the International Space Station, and spent over 200 days on it. Virts is one of the stars (and photographers) of the IMAX film, A Beautiful Planet, released in April 2016. He is also the author of View from Above (National geographic, 2017). He lives near Houston.

This author is represented by the Hachette Speakers Bureau.

Editorial Reviews

2024 Texas Library Association’s Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List 

2024 Children’s Book Council’s Favorites Awards – Teacher Favorites 6th – 8th Grade 

2024 Nautilus Book Awards - Gold, Middle Grade Non-Fiction 

"With an eye to younger audiences with stars in their eyes, he describes space programs of the past and near future in clear, simple language and embeds pep talks about the importance of getting a good education and ignoring nay-sayers…. Finally, an astro-memoir for kids that really gets down to the nitty-gritty."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"A fun, fact-filled reflection of space-bound adventure."—Booklist, starred review

"Paints a vibrant picture of life aboard the International Space Station…. Young space enthusiasts will enjoy this guide. Aspiring astronauts will treasure it."—TIME for Kids

Author Terry Virts "engages readers with more than a smattering of history, science, and pure delight."
 —Upstate Parent

"The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet is exactly the sort of book kids who love space will fall in love with…. an informative read that should appeal to space fanatics young and old."
 —Cracking the Cover

From the Publisher

★ 2023-01-25
A former space shuttle pilot and International Space Station commander recalls in unusually exacting detail what it’s like to be an astronaut.

In the same vein as his more expansive adult title How To Astronaut (2020), Virts describes and reflects on his experiences with frank and photographic precision—from riding the infamous “Vomit Comet” to what astronauts wear, eat, and get paid. He also writes vividly about what Earth looks like from near orbit: the different colors of deserts, for instance, and storms that “are so powerful that the flashes from the lightning illuminate the inside of the space station.” With an eye to younger audiences with stars in their eyes, he describes space programs of the past and near future in clear, simple language and embeds pep talks about the importance of getting a good education and ignoring nay-sayers. For readers eager to start their training early, he also tucks in the occasional preparatory “Astronaut Activity,” such as taking some (unused) household item apart…and then putting it back together. Lozano supplements the small color photos of our planet from space and astronauts at work with helpful labeled images, including two types of spacesuits and a space shuttle, as well as cartoon spot art depicting diverse figures.

Finally, an astro-memoir for kids that really gets down to the nitty-gritty. (glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 9-11)

Kirkus Reviews