Telescopes for Kids - (Junior Scientists) by Vanessa Thomas

Book Synopsis

Explore the mysteries of the night sky with the Junior Scientists series for kids ages 6 to 9

Scan the skies for 40 incredible sights with a book that shows budding scientists how to use a telescope for kids. You'll learn how to choose a telescope, set it up, and seek out the wonders of the Northern Hemisphere, from the Big Dipper to the Whirlpool Galaxy.

• Detailed visual guides--Illustrations of each star, planet, and more make them easier to spot-- and once you can identify the major ones, you can use them to find others with any telescope for kids.
• Outer space school--Discover what time of year it's easiest to see different objects in the sky, the life cycle of a star, how galaxies are cataloged, and more!
• Fun facts--Find out where the constellations get their names and why looking at the stars means you're actually looking back in time!

See what's happening out in the cosmos with this guide to making the most of a telescope for kids.

Review Quotes

"A well-organized stargazing primer designed specifically for younger audiences. Telescopes for Kids is easy to follow, provides analogies that will assist children in understanding basic astronomical concepts, and includes terrific illustrations helpful for locating several celestial gems in the night sky. The perfect gift for an aspiring stargazer!" --James M. Reynolds, M.Ed., MCP, planetarium director, Elizabeth City State University

"First-time stargazers of all ages will find Telescopes for Kids an inspiring guide to exploring the solar system and beyond. Vanessa uses her passion for astronomy and experience in science writing to lead young explorers on an amazing journey through the universe." --Bonnie Eisenhamer, educational psychologist

"What a unique, informative, and helpful book! I've worked closely with Vanessa at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and know well of her ability to take astronomical facts and concepts and make them understandable and interesting. This book helps young readers connect with astronomy at an elementary level, like how to pronounce words and recognize basic objects and constellations, yet also gives them room to grow intellectually and experientially by indicating the difficulty level of a particular observation. This book is also perfect for fostering growth in young scientists by teaching them to develop the process and practice of studied observation." --K. Hartnett, science operations manager, author, speaker, astrophotographer, and astronomical observer

About the Author

VANESSA THOMAS VANESSA THOMAS fell in love with the stars on camping trips with her family and went on to study astronomy and science writing at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Vanessa has worked as a science writer for the Hubble Space Telescope at NASA and is the public information officer for the National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory.