Blast off in to space with the experts at National Geographic to discover everything we know about the universe, including exciting, recent discoveries and amazing brand-new NASA space photography. The updated and expanded edition of the hit Space Encyclopedia presents the most up-to-date findings on space exploration and research and breathtaking views of the universe as captured by the latest and greatest technology, including the recent first-ever image of a black hole. It's a complete reference, with everything kids need to know about our sun and planets (including the new dwarf planets), the formation of the universe, space travel, the possibility of life beyond Earth, and more. Authored by David A. Aguilar, an internationally recognised astronomer and former Director of Science Information and Public Outreach at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, it is authoritative, beautifully illustrated, and a must-have for every family, providing both accessible information for school homework and compelling reading on the mysteries beyond our planet.