Category: Children Publisher: National Geographic Society
ISBN-10: 0792271939
Type: Non-Fiction
Pages: 64
Copyright: Apr 1 2003
Written by a former NASA mission controller, this intriguing book captures a new kind of frontier spirit, packs in the moon science, and gives us an exciting glimpse into our future on the moon.
The last footprint on Earth's moon dates from 1972. That was more than 30 years ago. Isn't it time for our return?
In fact, humans will set foot on the moon again, probably someday soon. And this time it won't be just to visit.
With exhaustive research and a solid scientific base, Marianne J. Dyson helps us imagine what it would be like to live on the moon. It won't be like life on Earth.
Humans must use science and technology to live where there is no atmosphere; where surface temperatures drop hundreds of degrees when the sun sets; where no magnetic field shields life from radiation. Future settlers will probably live in buried domes. Inside their habitats, the low gravity will allow lunar residents to strap on wings and fly!
Lunar scientists will go where no human has gone before - to the mysterious far side of the moon. This remote area offers a radio-quiet and steady platform from which to view the depths of the universe. The near side, with a never-setting Earth seen above towering mountains, will provide moon tourists with an awe-inspiring experience.
Home on the Moon goes beyond the Apollo experience, covers the moon's formation, its resources, unique features, and even outlines plans for the first human outposts. The fact-filled text and compelling imagery transforms the gray lunar landscape into an enticing frontier.
Excerpt
From the end of chapter 1:
"People are ready to reach for the moon again. Apollo astronaut John Young said recently, “I sincerely hope that the human race will have sense enough to go out and explore space and learn to live and work on these other places because the long-term benefit will be the preservation of our species.”
The cost and risk to return to the moon are low enough now that the first outposts will probably be built in the very near future. Apollo 15 astronaut Dave Scott explained why people will go. "As I stand out here in the wonders of the unknown at Hadley, I sort of realize there's a fundamental truth to our nature. Man must explore. And this is exploration at its greatest."
The lunar frontier calls to a new generation of explorers. Maybe you will be one of them."
Professional Reviews
National Geographic offers new children's books
May 11, 2003 Indianapolis Star
Copyright: (c) Copyright 2003, The Indianapolis Star. All Rights Reserved.
Byline: BY JANE LICHTENBERG JANE.LICHTENBERG@INDYSTAR.COM (317-444-6015)
Section: FOCUS
“We're all familiar with the yellow-bordered magazine published by the National Geographic Society and the documentaries about nature and diverse cultures, but not as many know the society publishes a variety of exceptional books for children on topics ranging from backyard nature to the universe.
“This spring, several new books from National Geographic are worth adding to youngsters' bookshelves:… [text omitted]
“A little closer to Earth, Marianne J. Dyson takes us "Home on the Moon: Living on a Space Frontier" ($18.95). The former National Aeronautical and Space Administration mission controller helps children imagine what life would be like living on the moon. Key facts are presented in interesting, easy-to-understand ways.
“Dyson points out that, except for water, "the moon has the same raw materials as Earth." She says that lunar pioneers, once they arrive, must learn quickly how to live off the land.
“Images from NASA files, artistic renditions of a moon colony, hands-on activities and a list of men who have orbited or walked on the moon will hold the interest of ages 8-12.”
