Now available: History of space exploration by former NASA chief historian

Space fans looking for an overview of humanity's interest and voyages into the final frontier have a new resource: "The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration: From the Ancient World to the Extraterrestrial Future."

Released this week, the 400-page illustrated book by historian Roger D. Lanius takes a chronological look at space-related observations spearheaded by ancient civilizations to the 20th century space race and into the growth of the commercial sector. Finally, it covers possible futures into what humanity – and its technology – could look like as a multi-planetary species.

The former associate director of collections at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Lanius served as NASA's chief historian from 1990 to 2002. At least two Apollo astronauts, including moonwalker Buzz Aldrin and Apollo 15 pilot Al Worden, have praised the book.

Published by Smithsonian Books, "The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration" has a suggested retail price of $40.

Contact Emre Kelly at aekelly@floridatoday.com or 321-242-3715. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @EmreKelly.

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