World Space Week · October 4–10, 2026

Rocket Revolution

Seven stories about what makes a launch worth following. Read in any order, at your own pace. Every lesson, illustration and answer is free to read here.

Start with the story, follow the picture, then explore a real mission. Allow around 5–10 minutes per story, including the optional activities.

1. 1. What makes a rocket plume glow?

   The rocket looks tiny beside its glowing plume.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

2. 2. How do you catch a rocket?

   First, slow it down. Then let the tower take its weight.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

3. 3. Will I be able to see it?

   The same launch can look very different from two places.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

4. 4. How does Webb fit?

   A giant telescope, folded for the ride.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

5. 5. Around the Moon, with people aboard

   The rocket starts the journey. The spacecraft brings a small home along.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

6. 6. Why did liftoff wait?

   Sometimes a successful mission starts with deciding to wait.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

7. 7. Pick a launch. Tell its story.

   Four questions to get you started.

   5 min reading · 2–4 min exploring

Prepared for World Space Week 2026. These lessons remain useful after the event.