From our solar system neighbors to the mysteries of deep space, this remarkable book explores the planets and stars of our galaxy and beyond. Will interplanetary travel become routine? Why do stars explode? KFK Stars & Planets will motivate avid young astronomers and aspiring astronauts to consider all the biggest questions.

Includes index.

Foreword -- Universe of Stars: Vast universe -- Bang! -- Changing universe -- Home galaxy -- Star material -- Star is born -- Story of a star -- Black holes & neutron stars -- closest star -- Summary -- Sun & Its Family: Solar system -- Home planet -- Rock planets -- Space rocks -- Planetary giants -- Boon families -- Dirty snowballs -- Summary-- Exploring the Universe: Space detective -- Collecting information -- Space robots -- Landers & rovers -- Life search -- Journey of a lifetime -- Future -- Summary -- Glossary -- Index -- Acknowledgments.