How did the Apollo space mission successfully make it to the moon? What is it like for astronauts to live in space? What would it be like to live on Mars? All these questions and more are answered in a series of books by former NASA flight controller Marianne Dyson, one of the first women to work in NASA’s Mission Control Center, the facility where NASA monitored its historic space missions.

The animated children’s books include: 

Welcome to the Moon: Making a Home on the Red Planet: As NASA prepares to send a new mission to the moon, this book guides readers through everything they need to know, such as how the moon formed, resources on the moon and the challenges of navigating its landscape. 

To The Moon and Back: Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first Moon landing, this pop-up adventure book follows astronaut Buzz Aldrin’s story as the first person to walk on the moon. The book is co-authored with Aldrin.

Welcome to Mars: This book follows Buzz Aldrin as he explores Mars as a planet where humans might someday live. It is co-authored with Aldrin for National Geographic.

Space Station Science: This award-winning book gives kids a glimpse into what it’s like for astronauts to live in a space station on a day-to-day basis.

Home on the Moon: This award-winning book is based on Dyson’s first-hand experience as a NASA mission controller. It explores the future possibilities for traveling to and living on the moon, and includes hands-on activities for readers. 

Born and raised in Canton, Ohio, Dyson earned degrees in space physics and astronomy before getting a job at NASA in the early 1980s. She helped run the early space shuttle program. She also writes science fiction. Read more about her here.

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