When the United States was scrambling to catch up to the Soviets after their successful launch of Sputnik, they didn’t turn to Mercury Seven astronauts Alan Shepard and John Glenn. Rather, they began bringing chimpanzees to Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico for a top-secret program. The goal? To do everything America needed to make space travel safe for humans and beat the Soviets.
Based on extensive research and interviews with living members of the team of veterinarians, handlers, and psychologists who worked with the animals, The Astrochimps offers a fresh perspective on animal intelligence and the rise of the space age. Detailed back matter provides resources, space mission stats, and calls to action for young readers to honor the astrochimps’ legacy and advocate for the humane treatment of chimpanzees today.
Vividly depicted at work, at play, in and out of spacecrafts, these chimps played an under-appreciated part in helping the United States win the Space Race.
"Rest in Peace." Glossary. Author's note. Resources. Notes. Index. Black-and-white charts and photographs.
Title alpha The Astrochimps: America's First Astronauts
Level Nonfiction Middle Plus
Pages Count 216
Genre Nonfiction
Topics US astronauts. Chimpanzees as laboratory animals. Space race. Space flight training facilities. Astronautical laboratories. Animal rights. Manned space flight research.
Trim Size 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2024-02-05
JLG Release Date Apr 2024
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 8
Reading level Middle
Format Print
Nonfiction Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
Nonfiction Middle Plus
Nonfiction Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
For Grades 5-8 You'll love our NM+ Category which offers 14 more intriguing nonfiction selections for middle school readers. Readers with a thirst for factual knowledge will look forward to these books arriving each month.