World Space Week: Explore the Universe Through Books
Sun, 4 Oct 2026 – Sat, 10 Oct 2026
From distant galaxies and mysterious black holes to the planets right here in our own solar system, there’s something endlessly fascinating about space. This World Space Week, why not encourage curious minds to look up at the stars and discover more about the universe through a great book?
Taking place from 4–10 October 2026, World Space Week is the perfect opportunity to celebrate space exploration, science and the incredible discoveries that continue to expand our understanding of the universe.
And you don't need a telescope or a spaceship to get started - sometimes, all you need is a good book. 🌎✨
Start Your Space Adventure
For younger readers, Space Station Academy: Destination Earth – 8 Books Collection is a brilliant way to begin exploring our solar system.
The collection follows the Space Station Academy students on adventures across eight destinations: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. Along the way, young readers can discover everything from volcanoes and meteorites to planetary weather, moons and the mysteries of the outer solar system.
With colourful illustrations and exciting adventures, these books make learning about the planets feel like an expedition of their own.
Discover the Universe with DK
For children who are ready to dive a little deeper, Knowledge Encyclopedia Space! is packed with fascinating information about the universe.
Published by DK Children, this hardcover guide explores planets, stars, black holes and the wider universe, bringing complex scientific ideas to life in an accessible and visually engaging format.
It's the sort of book that can turn a simple question - “What is a black hole?” or “How far away is that star?” — into an afternoon of discovery.
Whether your child is already fascinated by astronomy or simply starting to ask questions about the night sky, an illustrated encyclopedia is a great way to encourage that curiosity.
Take Astronomy Further
For budding astronomers aged 12 and over, the Beginner's Guides of Astronomy 4-Book Collection offers a fantastic introduction to observing the night sky.
The collection includes four guides:
- Stargazing – learn how to identify stars, constellations and deep-sky objects.
- Moongazing – discover the Moon's phases, surface features and how to observe it.
- Northern Lights – explore the science behind the spectacular Aurora Borealis.
- Observing Our Solar System – discover planets, moons and other objects orbiting our Sun.
Together, they offer an accessible introduction to astronomy and can help turn looking at the stars into a fascinating hobby.
Make Space Part of Your Week
World Space Week is a great reminder that learning doesn't always have to happen in a classroom. A clear evening, a curious question and a space book can be enough to spark a lifelong interest in science.
Why not make your own little space adventure this week?
🌙 Look up at the Moon and see what phase it's in.
⭐ Try spotting some constellations on a clear evening.
🪐 Learn about a different planet each day.
🔭 Explore how telescopes help us see deeper into space.
📚 Pick a space book and discover something you didn't know before.
From first introductions to the planets to guides for budding stargazers, books can open up an entire universe of discovery.
Explore More Space & Astronomy Books
Ready to continue the adventure? Explore the full Astronomy & Space Collection for more books covering planets, stars, space exploration, astronomy, science and the universe. The collection includes children's space books, educational encyclopedias, astronomy guides and collections for older readers.
This World Space Week, look up, get curious and explore beyond the stars. 🚀✨
