Recommended: School Library Journal

Updated to reflect the change in the reduced number of planets (8), the new planetary status of Pluto and the discovery of ice on mars.  

What’s Up In Space? is a refreshing 7-part series that introduces young learners to the solar system. These fascinating topics are presented at a developmentally appropriate level, using a combination of live action, colorful illustrations and computer created animations. Each program answers important questions in space science using the latest research and are in line with the National Science Education Standards. 

Exploring Space
From the first rockets sent into space to the latest missions to Mars, “EXPLORING SPACE” presents the history of space travel. The program will explain the technology used to launch people into space. Landmark missions by countries around the world and recent scientific findings all designed for kids.

Chapters include: Introduction, Early space exploration, Landing on the moon, Space suits, Training for space, How exploration has changed, Let's review. 

Earth
“EARTH” introduces students to the planet where we live. In addition to discussing Earth’s place in the solar system, this program explains the basics of Earth Science, including atmosphere, weather, rock cycle, erosion and the water cycle.

Chapters include:  Introduction, Importance of our solar location, What makes up the earth?, Why is life possible?, What's so important about atmosphere?, What is the water cycle?, Continents, what are they?,  Let's review. 

Moon
Even the youngest students are familiar with the moon in our night sky. This program takes viewers to the surface of the moon and outlines the history of lunar exploration.

Chapters include: Introduction, What is the moon?, The surface of the moon, The phases of the moon, What is an eclipse?, The moon-facts and fiction, Moon and the ocean tides, Let's review. 

Mars
As our neighbor in space, Mars has long been the object of fascination by people on Earth. This program explores the similarities and differences between Mars and Earth. Recent missions to Mars and the discovery of ice on the planet are also discussed.  Includes amazing footage from the Mars Pathfinder.

Chapters include:  Introduction, What is mars?, How is Mars like Earth?, Exploring Mars, Mars into the future, Let's review. 

Planets
There are eight planets in our solar system, and each one is unique. From blazing hot Venus, through the rings of Saturn and on out to Neptune, each planet is explored. The relationship of each planet to the sun is also explained.

The program further goes on to review the most recent changes in the planetary status of Pluto covered in an age appropriate manner allowing for an introduction to the concept of Dwarf Planets.

Chapters include: Introduction, What is the solar system?, What are Planets make of?, Mercury & Venus, Earth and Mars, Jupiter & Saturn, Uranus & Neptune, The new status of Pluto, Let's review.

Stars
How are stars formed, and what are they made of? How far away are the stars we see in the night sky? These are some of the questions answered in the program, “STARS.” Information about comets and shooting stars is also included in this program.

Chapters include: Introduction, What is a star?, Where do stars come from?, What is a galaxy?, How do we learn about galaxies?, Stars before telescopes, What is a falling star?, Let's review. 

Sun
“SUN” not only shows students how the sun works, but it also reveals how important the sun is to sustaining life on this planet. An explanation of photosynthesis reveals to students how the sun gives us air and food in addition to light and warmth. Sunspots, storms and sun quakes are included in this age appropriate exploration of our closest star.

Chapters include: Introduction, What is the Sun?, Sun & the Solar System, Role of Sun on Earth, Sun & our seasons, Where is the sun at night?, What makes up the Sun?, Let's review.