Unlocking the Universe: The Cosmic Discoveries of the Webb Space Telescope

Ages 6 to 9, Grades 1 to 4

A stunning STEM feast on NASA's Webb Telescope--the world's most powerful telescope--will marvel future scientists and engineers about space and the universe beyond.

Building the James Webb Space Telescope was no easy feat. It started with a big dream and an even bigger team: thousands of engineers and scientists across the country and world. The team solved design challenges, built prototypes, and ran test after test. They experienced frustration, page-turning suspense, and, ultimately, triumph. After decades of work, a rocket catapulted the Webb Telescope into space. With Webb, we can now see farther than we've ever seen before.

The first Webb images, released on July 11, 2022, captivated the world. Today the Webb team continues releasing new images and making astonishing discoveries. This is their story, as told by a mechanical engineer and reviewed for accuracy by key members of the Webb team.

About the Author

Suzanne Slade is a mechanical engineer who worked on Delta IV rockets for NASA. She has written more than 150 children's books, including Friends for Freedom: The Story of Susan B. Anthony & Frederick Douglass and the Sibert Honor Book Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks. Her many picture books about space include Daring Dozen: The Twelve Who Walked on the Moon and Mars Is: Stark Slopes, Silvery Snow, and Startling Surprises. Suzanne lives near Chicago.

Author Residence: Libertyville, IL

Author Hometown: Goshen, IN