Look Up!

Written by Robert Burleigh · Illustrated by Raúl Colón

Discover the hidden legacy of a pioneering astronomer who changed our understanding of the universe.

4.5/7 Bookroo expert·3.9/5 Goodreads · 392 ratings

27 pages· 1,632 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Meet Henrietta Leavitt, a trailblazing astronomer who unlocked the secrets of star brightness, revolutionizing our grasp of the universe's vastness. At just twenty-five, her groundbreaking discovery at Harvard Observatory paved the way for measuring cosmic distances. Yet, her name remains largely unknown. Why? Dive into her inspiring story, a testament to perseverance and intellect, and explore how her work continues to influence astronomy today. This captivating biography not only sheds light on Henrietta's achievements but also encourages young minds to reach for the stars.

From the publisher

Henrietta Levitt was the first person to discover the scientific importance of a star’s brightness—so why has no one heard of her? Learn all about a female pioneer of astronomy in this picture book biography. Henrietta Swan Leavitt was born on July 4, 1868, and she changed the course of astronomy when she was just twenty-five years old. Henrietta spent years measuring star positions and sizes from photographs taken by the telescope at the Harvard College Observatory, where she worked. After Henrietta observed that certain stars had a fixed pattern to their changes, her discovery made it possible for astronomers to measure greater and greater distances—leading to our present understanding of the vast size of the universe. An astronomer of her time called Henrietta Leavitt “one of the most important women ever to touch astronomy,” and another close associate said she had the “best mind at the Harvard Observatory.” Henrietta Leaveitt’s story will inspire young women and aspiring scientists of all kinds and includes additional information about the solar system and astronomy.

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