Searching for Extraterrestrials

Six titles comprise Crabtree’s new “Mission: Space Science” series which examines the solar system as well as some of the history and the future of space exploration. Detailed information, accompanied by photographs, artists’ renderings and diagrams, furthers readers’ understanding of the universe. Sidebars provide additional information, and “Your Mission” text boxes pose questions and scenarios for readers to ponder. At the back of the book is a “Planning Your Mission” activity for readers to try. This activity involves goal-setting, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving. In most cases, the student has to decide on a research topic or type of mission, design an appropriate spacecraft, select the proper tools to take along, the methods of recording data, and finally, collaborate with others to brainstorm for ways in which to improve the mission. Though the vocabulary used in the text is not difficult, many of the concepts presented in the series are quite complex, and so the books might appeal only to space buffs. Occasionally, the information is repeated throughout the various titles, and some of it is available in other series by the same publisher. A table of contents, a glossary, an index and a list of books and web sites are also provided.

The space race of the 1960s sparked an interest in space travel and the possible existence of life on other planets. Searching for Extraterrestrials examines UFO sightings, radio waves from outer space, and information gleaned from probes sent to other planets. For example, scientists have learned that there was once a large water-filled crater on Mars and that several rock samples from that planet show evidence of organic material similar to that of coal. This title also provides information about the SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence), a leading research centre working with NASA; “Goldilocks” worlds where conditions are “just right” to support life; and the various types of exploration tools- rovers, landers and telescopes. Readers will be introduced to such terms as technosignatures, transit method and radial velocity as well as the nine different types of extremophiles, organisms which thrive in extreme conditions ranging from salty to high pressure.

Generally, “Mission: Space Science” is a good series, but some of the titles will have a limited audience.