Astronomy & Space
Astronomy is the study of all objects and matter in the universe beyond earth's atmosphere. That includes the sun, moon planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and comets.
Other information
- Matariki, the Māori New Year
- Moon landing
- Sputnik
- The Transit of Venus
- Winter solstice
- Astronomy organisations from the CINCH community information directory.
Astronomy organisations
The Canterbury Astronomy Society hosts open nights and there is an Oxford Area School Observatory.
More resources
Space and Astronomy for Kids
Find out more about outer space and astronomy with our library resources and selected websites.
Most books on space are in the 520s in the non-fiction section of your library:
- space craft, astronauts and travelling to the moon are at 629.4
- life on other planets at 576.8
- aliens at 001.942
What do the numbers mean? See our guide to the Dewey Decimal System.
Books on Space
Science eResources for kids
Britannica Library Kids
Colourful and easy to use interactive online version of the Encyclopædia Britannica. Safe and accurate information for primary level.
World Book Kids
Easy-to-use encyclopædia for young readers. Articles, multimedia, games, science projects and interactive tools for homework and fun.
National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids is a great place to find pictures and articles about animals and our natural world.
World Book Early World of Learning
Interactive learning resource developed by early childhood education experts for preschoolers and children in early primary school.
More eResources
- National Geographic Kids - Space
Pictures and articles about space from National Geographic Kids. - Britannica Library Kids - Space
Britannica Library Kids has lots of articles, media and pictures about space and space exploration.
Online Resources
Try these links to great websites
- Ask an astronomer
Got questions about space? Ask an astronomer! - Bite-size guide to Earth and space
The BBC brings you a revision guide to everything there is to know about the stars and space. - NASA kids club
Learn about space and space travel by playing these games. - Ology
Find your place in space in this jam packed online exhibit from the American Natural History Museum.