Technology development has enabled the scientific exploration of space and the solar system. When you think of technology for space, you probably think of rockets, rovers, and satellites, and those are indeed all in the list compiled by Odenwald (NASA) for this book. Many of the first essays recount the history of the study of space and particularly stress the recording of humanity's understanding of space. Odenwald here includes details about more familiar historical objects that may yet be unknown to many readers, but also includes essays about many less well known objects that reveal how much many traditional cultures knew about the Moon, planets, and stars. The list of entries progresses chronologically, from 71,000 BCE (beginning with Stone Age abstract drawings) through the beginnings of the space age, and includes essays on all of the important firsts in technology that allowed humans to make the journey to space, visit the Moon, and robotically study the planets. Some of the text assumes a level of familiarity with astronomy, but for the most part the individual essays are accessible to all with an interest in the subject. Summing Up: Recommended. All readers. --Christopher Palma, Pennsylvania State University