More than 3,000 satellites have been placed in orbit around Earth since the very first, Sputnik 1, made history in 1957. Satellites perform a huge variety of functions. From the huge Hubble Space Telescope to weather and communications satellites, these objects make a difference to our lives here on Earth every day. How do they get there, how do they stay up there and what job does each of them do? Find out in this in-depth look at all kinds of satellites.

Six books that reveal the thrilling journeys, triumphs and disasters that men and women have experienced in the exploration of our universe. These books examine the mind-blowing technologies involved in space endeavours and tells the all too human stories of some of the key figures.