Women in Space

Women have been traditionally underrepresented in space exploration, but that has changed in recent years. A career in space exploration is the perfect choice for a variety of people—from those who like conducting research about the universe, to adventurous souls who want to travel to and live in space. In this book, you’ll learn about groundbreaking female astronauts and space research professionals, career paths in space exploration, how to prepare for the field, key skills for success, methods of learning more about careers while in school, and much more.  

Women in Space gives readers an inside look at the little-known career opportunities available in space exploration, including careers that do not involve flying into space. Each of the five chapters follows the same format. The first page lists words and definitions that appear in the chapter; these words include conductivity, cosmology, celestial, and more. These words appear in bold gray font, which makes them easy to identify. 

Women who were pioneers in space exploration are featured, including Sally Ride and Mae Jamison. Each woman faced many obstacles. Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman to enter space, was told by a professor that being an engineer was not “ladylike,” and her father dissuaded her from being an engineer. This did not stop Chawla from earning her PhD from the University of Colorado and working for NASA. Each biography highlights how different skills are used in the space field. Five biographies also include a QR code so readers can learn more about the women through educational videos.   

The book is straightforward and easy to understand despite the use of informational space exploration jargon. The short paragraphs are broken up with photographs of women at work that appear every one to two pages. In addition, the book has short blurbs about issues important to women in space, such as the international space stations, finding time for family, and the NASA Astrobiology Institute. Often, important information is presented in lists, such as skills needed for success. The end of each chapter includes a research project and text-dependent questions that check for understanding.  

Women in Space Exploration explores many women’s roles in the space industry. The book highlights the skills and education needed for anyone interested in working for NASA and other space companies. By featuring women who work in the field, readers will discover the many different degrees that can be used in the field. In addition, the biographies prove that dreams do come true for those who persevere. 

Readers who dream of flying into space will find Women in Space an excellent source of information and encouragement. The book highlights the necessary education needed for anyone who wants to work in the space industry, as well as shows that space exploration is for everyone. Readers who want to learn more about women in the space industry should also read To Fly Among the Stars by Rebecca Siegel, Astronauts: Women on the Final Frontier by Jim Ottaviani & Maris Wicks, and Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross by Traci Sorell. 

Sexual Content  

• None 

Violence  

• None 

Drugs and Alcohol  

• None 

Language  

• None 

Supernatural 

• None 

Spiritual Content  

• None